The Spanish term commonly used for sponsors who help support parts of a quinceañera is padrinos.
Padrinos are sponsors, often relatives or close family friends, who may contribute money, services, or ceremonial items. Depending on local custom, different padrinos can be associated with the dress, cake, decorations, music, venue, religious elements, or other expenses. Their involvement reflects the importance of extended family and community networks in many celebrations.
The exact role is not standardized. Some families use padrinos for financial assistance, while others choose them mainly as honored participants. A family may also have madrinas, female sponsors, or use padrinos as a general plural term for sponsors.
Padrinos should not be confused with chambelanes or damas. Those terms identify attendants in the court of honor. Padrinos are sponsors, and one person can potentially serve in both a sponsoring and ceremonial role.