Carmen's
offers its
Quinceañeras a fabulous array
of quince gowns to satisfy any taste.
We
are selective when choosing the designers we
represent. Each Quinceañera is
able to feel
unique
and have a glow and feel of Cinderella.
These are
just a small sample of the designers we carry:
We have a dedicated staff to
assure your needs are met. Please give us a call to make
your special appointment for your
special day Come in, spend some time with us and allow us to
be part of that very special moment.
Planning the Perfect Celebration --- Happy Birthday!
What?
Sweet 15 is a major
milestone in a girl’s life—a long-established
celebration all over the world. As a time-honored
tradition for Hispanic girls, planning this celebration
takes a great deal of planning. The attention to rich
culture and tradition is important. Adding a little
extra must fit your taste and that of your family’s
customs. The beginnings of Quinceanera go way back to
the combining of Christianity, the Aztec religion and
lifestyle when the Spanish conquered the Aztec Indians
in the 1500’s. It is still popular amongst the
Hispanics in Mexico, the United States, South America
and in other Spanish-speaking countries.
Why?
This
special celebration marks the beginning of womanhood as
she “comes out” to be presented to society. Tradition
places additional responsibilities on the young woman
after her Quinceañera such as household duties, family
needs, work, volunteerism, or even marriage. While a
great deal of attention is placed on the party and the
celebration, the basic belief is for the young woman to
live a life of faith, good moral principles, devotion to
her community and live a wholesome lifestyle. The
ceremony is value and moral centered. Like the
milestone markers of birth, baptism, and confirmation,
the Quinceanera gives thanks to God.
Who?
Godparents are considered special guests at the
Quinceañera. Their counsel to you in this time of great
emotional and spiritual reverence is important. They
also have the duty to assist with the financial costs of
the event.
A
special token or certificate of your appreciation is
appropriate during the reception.
Decide who will be members of
your court. Fourteen couples (one for each year of your
life) are chosen. Fourteen Damas
(maids of honors) and fourteen chambelanes
(chamberlains) may include family members and/or close
friends. You might also consider having flower girls
to scatter rose petals or to carry a basket of flowers.
Visit the pages through this site for planning tips &
ideas.
When? Customs
& Traditions. The birthday girl is serenaded by a
mariachi band in front of her house the night before her
15th birthday . A celebration is planned for
her birthdate or the Saturday closest to her birthday—Quinceanera!
Where? Typically, a
church mass is celebrated. The dinner and dance
celebration can be held at the church hall, a
reception/banquet hall, or other unique
possibilities.
How? will have a touch
of protocol and a touch of special creativity as
discussed with your Priest or Pastor. As with most
ceremonies, consider the following as ideas:
-Special Scripture or Poem
reading by a designated person
-Candle Lighting Ceremony (14
candles for the Court, parents, Godparents and the
Quinceanera)
-Special music
-Signing of the Certificate
(Godparents can personally sign)
-Acknowledgement and
Recognition of other "special people"
-Special Prayer or Verse
Dance
Program
After the Court is presented and then the Quinceanera,
special dances are reserved as follows:
The
first dance is a waltz danced with the Quinceanera and
her father
The
Court of Honor is presented
The
Godparents join in
Lastly, the dance floor is open for guests
Males usually take turns dancing with the Quinceanera
After this presentation, the toast is given and the cake
is served.
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Things
to Consider
Talking with the Priest
Favorite theme color(s)
Dress color (white, pink or another color?)
Music
Guest List
Church location
Banquet/Dance Hall
Decorative Theme
Table treats & decor
Food
Bakery
Choice of Chambelanes and Damas
Formal wear rental
Hire a Coordinator, party planner or wedding
consultant
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Religious & Cultural aspects of the
Quinceanera Mass is a very important part of
the tradition. Be sure to reserve the
church well in advance. The Quinceanera is
accompanied by her parents and her
godparents (padrinos). The Quinceanera is
presented to the center of the altar for
Mass. The service also includes the
blessing of special gifts by the priest,
scripture reading, music and song. It can
be at this time or after the banquet, yet it
is customery for the mother of the
Quinceanera to place the tiara upon her
daughter’s head, the father change her flat
shoes to high heels and the Quinceanera
gives her youngest sister (or parents) her
porcelain doll. This is like the “cutting
of the apron strings” where the Quinceanera
becomes a young woman.
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