The principal female sponsor at a quinceañera is commonly called a madrina.
Madrina means “godmother” or “female sponsor” in Spanish. In quinceañera traditions, a madrina may be a relative, family friend, or respected adult who offers practical, financial, or symbolic support. A celebration can have several madrinas, each associated with a particular item or responsibility.
Examples may include sponsoring the dress, cake, flowers, or religious articles, although these arrangements differ widely. A madrina may also provide advice and serve as an important adult presence in the honoree’s life.
The term is easy to confuse with dama, which usually identifies a young female member of the court of honor. A padrino is the corresponding masculine term for a male sponsor. Neither sponsor title means that the person is part of the court’s dance group.