A birthday is a special day for a person – no matter how old
they are turning. Hosting a birthday party for your daughter every year is a
great way to show her how important she is to you. Across every culture, there
are certain birthdays that have special meaning and that mark milestones in
their life. This begins with the 1st birthday party and extends to other landmark
ages. They celebrate their new age and coming responsibilities by gathering
together with friends and family. In the
latino culture, the Quinceanera is one of these milestone birthdays.
Meaning
When a young woman turns 15, her Quinceanera symbolizes the
gateway from childhood into womanhood. Anciently, age 15 was a time when many
women left their home to build a family of their own. Although there are many
cultural differences in modern times, age 15 is still celebrated as a time when
a young woman is prepared to take on additional responsibilities. It is also a
time when she reaffirms her commitment to her family, friends, community, and
to her cultural heritage.
Events
Within a traditional Quinceanera, there are several
different events. It begins with a special religious ceremony called a Misa de
accion de gracias, or a Mass for giving thanks. Family members and close
friends attend the ceremony. Following, many families host a large, extravagant
party.
photo credit: http://herreraimage.com/quinceanera/photography-session-in-ontario/
Planning the Party
The opulence of the Quinceanera can vary depending on the
family, although it is generally much more expensive and formal than a birthday
party for any other age. Traditionally, the young woman wears a formal dress.
She can choose damas, or maids of honor, and chamberlains. Her Court of Honor,
or attending party generally wears attire that she has chosen or that matches
the color scheme she has chosen. In many ways, the formality and traditions
associated with a Quinceanera rivals what would commonly be seen in a wedding.
Planning the Quinceanera party can be a lot of fun. From
music to party supplies, everything coordinates and is
designed to celebrate the entrance of a child into a more grown up world.
Online, you can find many websites dedicated to helping plan the perfect
Quinceanera party. There are tips for choosing the right colors, publishing
invitations that will be memorable, and even doing your own decorations and
party favors.
The party can be held outside or inside, depending on the
time of year. It can be done in the home of the family, or the family may even
rent a reception hall. The food, music, decorations, and dancing are all
important elements of the event and should be planned carefully so that they
coordinate with the interests and personality of the young woman.
Because there are so many expenses associated with the
Quinceanera celebration, one of the best things that people can do is to start
planning early. This gives them time to shop around for good deals and even
make decorations or formal wear themselves. By doing this, they can affordably
host a Quinceanera that celebrates the symbolic entrance of a child into her
role as a young woman.
