The Spanish term for adult sponsors who may help provide a quinceañera’s ceremonial items is padrinos.
Padrinos is the plural of padrino, a word meaning “godfather” or “sponsor.” A female sponsor may be called a madrina. Depending on family custom, padrinos may contribute items such as the dress, shoes, tiara, Bible, rosary, jewelry, or other elements connected with the celebration.
The role is related to the broader Latin American tradition of compadrazgo, a social and religious sponsorship relationship. Sponsors may be relatives, family friends, or godparents, and their involvement can be financial, ceremonial, or both.
Padrinos are not the same as the quinceañera’s court. Chambelanes and damas are usually young attendants who participate in the ceremony and dances, whereas padrinos are sponsors who support the celebrant and family.