Quinceanera + Shantel

Let the party begin!
A Quinceanera begins just the same as all major celebrations ...  arriving in a limo!  

After the guests have arrived and taken their seats, there is a procession of flower girls, grandparents, parents and finally the princess of honor!

The birthday young woman is seated and then the formal program begins.  Mom takes the crown off her head, replacing it with a crown that her older sister received two years prior.  Shantel then places her crown on the head of her younger sister in preparation for her own future Quinceanera.

(Note Shantel's Father's cool shoes!  He was so PROUD of them!  He looked fabulous!)

Shantel's Mom puts lipstick on her for the first time, symbolizing her crossing over the threshold to womanhood.

Dad has the honor of placing Shantel's first high heeled shoes on (it reminded me of the glass slippers in Cinderella).

Dad gets the first dance with his princess daughter.  Lots of laughter and tears!

Then came the thank yous.  Shantel gave a rose for each of the people who helped shape her into the person that she has become.   It was a very tender part of the night as I witnessed her great love and appreciation she gave to all.  It was my favorite.  

The succession of sisters...

What a wonderful celebration!  I feel so honored to have been a part of it and to have witnessed with Shantel's loved ones, this great milestone in her life.

Shantel + Quinceanera

The Latin American culture loves celebrations!  When a young woman turns 15 they have a "Quinceanera" which translates as, "one who is fifteen."  This birthday celebration marks for a girl the transition from childhood into young womanhood.  Preparations for this big event begin far in advance.  I met with Shantel's Mom a year ago as she began sharing the vision for her daughter's special milestone.  It was an honor to be a part of this grand tradition.  We had a photography session about 3 months before the event to capture the beauty of this emerging princess.  Shantel was delightful to work with.  She was full of enthusiasm and beauty.  Joy spilled over her in abundance.  Shantel is someone who is not only beautiful on the outside, but her light from within shines brightly.  Here are a few of my favorites from our shoot.

   

 

What an honor it was to spend the afternoon with this vibriant young woman.  I can't wait to continue to watch Shantel grow and blossom.  The Quinceanera party will be blogged next -- and what a celebation that was!