It's a deeply-rooted coming of age celebration that has reached across borders and is quickly becoming big business in the states. San Diego 6's Laura Cavanaugh reports on the cultural significance and the booming industry of Quinceañeras.
With the cascading gown, tiara, church mass and an honor court in tuxedos, one would think this elaborate affair was a wedding, but Bianca Hernandez is celebrating her 15th birthday, or her quinceañera.
"Having a quince to me is really special," says Hernandez, "Since I was a little, I've always wanted to have one."
The tradition symbolizes the transition from childhood to adulthood, a cross between a Bat Mitzvah, a debutante ball and a Sweet 16.
"There's quinces and Sweet 16s, but with quinces, Latin people would rather spend their last dime in their bank account to make her a princess for that special moment," says DJ George Torres, who is booked every weekend spinning tunes at quinceañeras in Chula Vista. READ MORE
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