At a quinceañera reception, the honoree’s formal group of attendants is commonly called the court of honor.
The court of honor usually includes damas and chambelanes, although the membership and size depend on family preference and regional custom. Members may enter with the quinceañera, appear in formal photographs, and participate in rehearsed dances or presentations.
The term borrows the language of a ceremonial court, but it does not mean that the honoree has a legal or political title. It describes a symbolic group supporting the central celebrant during the event. Some modern celebrations use a smaller court, a mixed-gender group, or no court at all.
A court of honor is also different from padrinos. Padrinos are sponsors who may help provide particular items or services, whereas court members are attendants who take part visibly in the ceremony and reception.