UP FRONT | CULTURE
Here in the United States, (the quinceañera party) is a way to hold onto your roots.” — CELIA BARRIOS, OWNER OF TIARAS AND TACONES
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“Saturday is (the) premium day for having an event, but don’t overlook a later-in-the-evening Friday event, a Saturday lunch event or a Sunday brunch,” she says. “These are all great alternatives when wanting a certain venue. Some people shy away from more elegant or expensive locations because of this.” One of the most important expenses, of course, is the guest of honor’s dress, the cost of which starts at around $300. Browse through options on social media and websites devoted to quinceañera and you’ll find beaded ball gowns, miles of tulle and taffeta and designs inspired by Disney favorites like Belle from Beauty and the Beast — all subject not just to personal preference, but to customs, too. “In Ecuador, the quinceañera dress is usually pink, and the party is known as ‘The Pink Party,’” says Torres. Some traditions are being challenged, as modern quince girls flirt with designs like shorter hemlines and midriff-baring gowns. Makeup isn’t just modern, it’s very of-themoment — currently trending designs that are worn by popular celebrities. Some of the most poignant aspects of a quince party don’t come with a hefty price tag. Celebrations can include a Mass, as well as a candle ceremony in which family members
HISPANIC LIVING | FALL 2017
or other key figures in a quinceañera teen’s life light 15 candles and offer loving words and anecdotes. Photo slideshows, the changing of the shoes (where the birthday girl exchanges her flats for high heels) and the father-daughter dance are also surefire ways to make a quince party memorable without breaking the bank. The number and makeup of the party guests are typically based on personal preference and budget. A quince girl may have a court of honor consisting of chambelanes and damas. In Peruvian tradition, there is one male chambelan. In other customs, the court is made up of 14 couples. “Now it’s really become a personal choice,” says Barrios. In fact, personal choice — and recognizing the guest of honor’s individuality — has become the new tradition of quinceañera celebrations. “Her quirky desires are really what makes her special,” Sanchez adds. Though it’s a months-long — and sometimes even years-long — planning process, Sanchez urges family, friends and planners to avoid getting caught up in the details and remember the reason for the celebration. “We tend to focus on all the nuisances of the preparations that we forget (what) it’s really about,” says Sanchez. “It’s all about the birthday girl!”
LUNA BELLA PHOTOGRAPHY
A plethora of desserts, including covered strawberries and cake, blanket the luxurious candy bar at Rosita Rosales’ quinceañera.