The traditional Spanish term for adult sponsors who help provide items or services for a quinceañera is padrinos.
Padrinos is the plural of padrino, commonly translated as “godparents” or “sponsors.” In quinceañera traditions, padrinos may help with expenses or contribute specific elements such as the dress, cake, music, religious objects, or venue. The exact responsibilities depend on the family and community.
The practice connects the celebration with broader Latin American traditions of sponsorship and compadrazgo, in which social and family relationships are reinforced through ceremonial support. Not every quinceañera has padrinos, and contributions may be organized informally.
Padrinos are different from the court of honor. Damas and chambelanes are usually young attendants who participate in the program, while padrinos are generally adults or sponsors who support the event. A family may use both groups.