If your cultural background includes a specific ritual for a 15th birthday, you can host a quinceanera for your celebrating 15-year-old daughter. A quinceanera is a formal event, originating with Hispanic cultures and becoming more popular with other cultures as well. Quinceaneras are a modern type of debutante or coming-out party. If you are looking for a formal event for a 15th birthday, take some inspiration from a quinceanera.
Formality
Quinceaneras are most often formal affairs, calling for ball gowns, black ties, event halls and gourmet meals. This is a great time to shower your young person in an upscale, glamorous manner. Talk with you son or daughter to see how comfortable he or she would feel about the formality. If stuffiness makes him uncomfortable, choose a less-formal affair. In that case, you can have a more whimsical party to welcome your son or daughter into adulthood.
Outfits
Ask guests to dress properly for your event. If you are hosting a formal party, make it clear that prom-style outfits are expected. By making the dress code obvious, you can alleviate the embarrassment of any teens who may feel anxious over what they should wear.
Guests
Quinceaneras are often grand affairs, calling for a ballroom, full of guests. This is the time to invite many of your child’s peers, including classmates, teammates, friends and family. However, you do have control of the guest list. Don’t invite troublemakers or bad influences if you feel so inclined. Keep your party grand and enjoyable by carefully perusing the guest list and editing as you, the parent, sees fit.
Location
If you have the funds, this is the time to rent a local ballroom–perhaps at a local hotel or convention center. The benefit of such a location is the help of their staff, who can arrange catering, set-up the room and even provide waiters. If such a budget is not available, you can host the event at a small gazebo in a park or your backyard. Stringed lights, an area for dancing and dimly lit tables for dinner will provide all the atmosphere you need.
Gifts
In addition to getting the opportunity to treat your child to an elegant party, a quinceanera is also a fine time to teach your child to be grateful and giving. Your child will learn not only how to act demurely and properly but also compassionately. Encourage your child to choose a local charity and invite guests to donate to the charity in lieu of a gift. Reward his generosity with one large gift he was hoping to receive.
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