AboutE. S. Expertise I can answer anything that there is to know about being Latino the in the United States. I can also answer questions regarding immigration and emigration to/from the United States.
Experience I am first generation Mexican-American, born and raised in Southern California.
Education/Credentials Bachelors degree in Latin-American Studies and Spanish.
Question My husband and I have been invited to a young friend's Quincenera celebration. What do we wear?? What is an appropriate gift? There is a religious ceremony at her church first, than a party a the civic center with food and music. How long should we stay, when is the gift presented?
Answer A quinceniera comes second in importance to a wedding. Much of the same traditions including ones ensemble will mirror that of a wedding. The young girl being celebrated will wear a dress resembling a wedding dress and her party will wear that of a groom and brides maids. Now unless you get prior knowledge stating that it will be a semi-formal quinceniera, then most likely the young girl celebrated will be wearing the quinceniera dress and everyone in her party will be wearing regular formal ensembles. Given that information, I would suggest formal suit and tie for the male and a formal dress for the female. The females dress can be either a cocktail dress, dress suit or a long gown. Keep in mind that your dress should be in good taste, not too reveling ect. Also, as in a wedding you do not want to wear something that will compete in attention with the quinceniera gown which is usually white, but I have also seen bright colors as well as pastels. So choose something simple, like a burgundy, blue, black, colors that are not to flashy, but don't make yourself look dull so try to beautify yourself with make-up, jewelry ect. As for the gift, if a list of wants was not provided, you can never go wrong with money. But if you want to get a gift for her and you know her well, than jewelry is also good, but in reality its a toss up. If a gift is given, normally it is given to the parents at the reception. If money is given, normally its given to the young girl. Also note to bring some extra cash in case a money dance takes place. You never want to be the first to leave. If you're having a good time stay and drink with the adults and party. If you're getting bored, wait till you see the first couple leave and your free to go. Again, you don't want to be the first to leave. All quinceniera's are not the same, traditions have changed from family to family. But if you follow a bit of my suggestions you shouldn't have a problem. I have been to many quincenieras, some that are very traditional others that have more of a modern twist and I have not had a problem doing what I have told you. Also, just remember, if you wouldn't wear it at a wedding, don't wear it at a quinceniera.
