The family sponsors of a quinceañera are commonly called padrinos, the Spanish word for godparents or sponsors.
Padrinos may help pay for or provide important parts of the celebration, such as clothing, flowers, music, the venue, or religious items. Their exact responsibilities are not identical everywhere, because families adapt the tradition to local customs and personal circumstances.
The practice connects the quinceañera with broader Latin American traditions of ritual sponsorship. In many communities, godparents and other respected relatives or family friends play an important role in religious and family milestones.
Padrinos should not be confused with the court of honor. The court consists of people who participate in the formal presentation or dances, while padrinos are sponsors who support the event and, often, its religious dimension.