What Everybody Ought to Know About Quinceanera Traditions
Let’s start with the basics! Why are you even expected to celebrate a Quinceanera?
Why is it such a big event in the Hispanic culture?
A Quinceanera is meant to celebrate her exciting transition to womanhood. Everyone who has been a part of your life and has impacted you in any sort of way should be invited to witness this important event.
To embrace your roots, there are certain quinceanera traditions you can choose to adapt into your celebration to make it unique and memorable!
Hair & Makeup
Yes, even your hair & makeup signifies something important. When you turn 15, it’ll be the very first time you wear makeup and thread your eyebrows. You don’t have to go overboard with your appearance! We recommend natural makeup rather than dramatic so you still display that youthful radiance everyone is expecting at your Quince.
Your Last Quinceanera Doll
Remember playing with dolls as a child? You’ll be receiving your last doll on the day of your Quince, meaning you will be maturing and dealing with bigger responsibilities in your new chapter as an adult and leaving your toys behind. Don’t be afraid, talk to your mom, grandma, older sister and ask for helpful tips for the smoothest transition. In the meanwhile, enjoy the last moments you’ll be playing with your collection of dolls.
Changing Your Flats for Zapatillas
You’ve seen you mother wearing high heels for all these years. Now it’s your turn! While you’re at the reception, your father will be changing your flats for heels in front of your guests. Remember to practice walking in heels before your big day.
Getting Padrinos and Madrinas
Remember, your quinceanera is not only a celebration for yourself, but also for your family. Therefore, they would be honored to contribute to your XV. Sure it can be stressful to even formulate the question. But once you get that over with, you’ll feel so much better knowing that you have the support from your family. In turn, your parents will be relieved when they are able to give you the quinceanera of your dreams without overspending.
Quinceanera Mass
Your quinceanera mass is an important component to your quince. This is your chance to give thanks to the Lord for the experiences you’ve endured as a child and to bless your life as a woman. Your family will also be praying for your smooth transition.
Quinceanera Toast
This might be the most nerve-wrecking part of your quince, especially if your public speaking skills are not on point. To help you out, prepare your toast at least 2 weeks in advance. Remember to put your heart and soul into it, so you make everyone who is important in your life feel super special. You might shed some tears but you’ll be glad you put on your big girl panties after you recite your toast.
Leaving your Natural Quinceanera Bouquet at the Altar
If you’re Catholic, the quinceanera bouquet is left at the altar to honor the Virgin Mary. Create a nice bouquet that you know you’ll feel genuinely happy to give away and share a thoughtful prayer before leaving the church.
Quinceanera Waltz
Many quinceaneras don’t feel the reality of the emotional transition until the Quinceanera waltz. During this part of the ceremony, you’ll be dancing with your father to a song that means so much to both of you. Most likely, your father will be whispering thoughtful memories or words of wisdom into your ear while you two dance in front of everyone. It’s an impacting moment that all your guests inside the venue will feel. Have some tissue in hand in case you tear up.
White Quinceanera Dress
White usually signifies purity across diverse cultures. In the Hispanic culture, you will be expected to arrive to the altar and present yourself as a virgin wearing your beautiful white quinceanera dress.
You Don’t Have to Follow all Traditions
Your Quinceanera has to be a celebration that you will remember for the rest of your life! It’s okay to add only the traditions that mean most to you. Every family is different in their beliefs and, nowadays, there are other options that are non-traditional such as choosing a colorful Quinceanera dress instead of a white one.
Featured image is property of: AVM Photo Boutique.
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