Having a Quinceanera has requirements that vary, so it is important to check with your church. The debutante may have to attend Bible and/or catechism classes, write her prayers for the mass, write her prayers for the Virgin Mary, and practice chastity. It is a part of her Oath to God, to be as pure up until marriage. It is a sacred part of her life.

With that in mind, this is what is needed to have a 15th birthday party celebration: (In a "Quinceanera Event" almost everything has meaning)

Theme: Cinderella, bears, angels, dolls, or even fiesta, etc.

Color: Should be based on the debutante's birthstone

Dress: WHITE OR CUSTOMARY PINK (NO TRAIN)

Bouquet: Flowers are the young lady's offering to God, and the flowers she carries represent life. In her presentation she offers her youth to God.

Court of Honor: Celebrating each year of her life:
          14-Dresses: Damas/Girls
          17-Tuxedos: Chamberlain/Guys/Escort/Dad

Dance Hall, Banquet, or Ballroom: Dance & Reception

Catering: Food for guest/Traditional foods served: mole, rice, chicken or turkey, tamales or a fancy dinner.

Decorations: Flowers;
         Church & Dance Hall - decor/arrangements
         Damas/Girls - 15 headpieces, 15 flower arrangements/corsages
         Chamberlains/Guys - 15 boutonnieres.
         Padrinos/Sponsors/Parents - boutonnieres/corsages

Roses for the Virgin Mary: A recited prayer written by the debutante with the offering of roses.

Music: DJ, Live Band, or Mariachis

Last Doll: Porcelain doll-symbolizes the last doll that she is to receive upon leaving her childhood.

Food: Catering, waiters or servers

Photography: For capturing the day

Rentals: Chairs for debutante and date, linen, arch for dancehall, cake holder, picture holder, & doll holder

Invitations: If you mail them they will come (for inviting family & friends)

Limousine or Carriage: A ride to the church or the dance hall

Waltz Instructors: Choreographer for dance(s) & last dance with dad

Bakery: Cake

Beauty Salon: Hairstyles, Make-up, and nails

Videographer: For recording your memories.

Jewelry: Ring - symbolizes the tie of commitment that exists between the young lady and Christ (usually a birthstone ring);
          necklace (Medallion) - a medal charm with the image of her patron saint; earrings, & bracelet.

Crown/Headpiece (Tiara): Represents the Crown of Life which the Bible promises to faithful Christians.

Kneeling Pillow: Church/Mass white satin cushion

Gloves: Optional, but pretty

Rosary & Bible: For future use throughout her life.

Miscellaneous Items: Cake cutter, toasting glasses, mints for table, guest book, specialty napkins & wishing well

Flat and High Heel Shoes (1 pair): Father will change debutante's flat shoes to heels, symbolizing his acceptance that she is now a young lady.


Pictures courtesy of Campanas de America.