As I have been on this planet for over 75 years, it is not often that I get to experience something I have never experienced before. But I had a “first” last Saturday: my first Quinceañera – a coming-out party for a Hispanic girl turning 15. In this case it was the granddaughter of a woman that Marlene had worked with for many years. Marlene offered to do some alterations for her dress for the party and they graciously invited us to attend. We graciously accepted.
The venue was the Civic Center in Labelle FL. It was a large hall set with about 50 tables, each seating 8. That’s a 400-person capacity. The tables were arranged on either side of the center, which was left clear for the entry procession (rather like the bride walking down the aisle) and dancing. Each table had an elaborate floral centerpiece that I estimate cost between $50 and $100 each – a total of $2,500 to $5,000 for the centerpieces alone.
The party was scheduled to start at 3pm. We arrived at 4 and were some of the first ones to arrive. The program didn’t really get started until 7pm with the serving of the meal – a large plate filled with two kinds of BBQ beef, rice and vegetables. Also tortillas so that we could roll the beef, rice and veggies into soft tacos. Delicious!
The music was provided by a 16-piece Mexican band – 6 brass, 4 percussion, 2 guitars, 2 wind instruments and 2 vocalists. HUGE band and very loud, thanks to more sound equipment than I have ever seen. Lights, too. Spotlights everywhere and laser projections onto the ceiling.
The main event was the presentation of gifts. Each close relative or friends gave her something both valuable and symbolic – roses, earrings, ring, Bible, necklace, etc. Then, at the end, a “surprise gift” from her parents: an Apple watch and a pocketbook that they knew she would love.
We left around 9pm as the music was a bit much for Marlene. But I think the party was just getting started. I have no idea how long it lasted.