I was honored when Decira asked me to photograph her Quinceanera. I first met Decira five years ago when she was my student at Gary Spatz’s the Playground (an actors conservatory). Now 15 years old she has grown up to become a beautiful, warm-hearted, young woman.  Capturing her in the celebration of the coming of age was truly a joy and a privilege.  She sparkled in a gorgeous dress that looked like it was made of red roses.

Her reception was at a newly opened venue in Costa Mesa, Fete The Venue.  Bright and airy, it was the prefect place for the celebration.  Her party included a full Mariachi Band, a DJ and lots of dancing. The reception was filled with Quinceanera traditions including my favorite—the changing of the shoes ceremony, where her dad changed her flat shoes for heels. Another one of my favorite moments was when she threw her Barbie over her shoulder to the young kids, like a bride would toss her bouquet.  One of the sweetest moments I captured was when her little brother gave her “An American Girl” doll. For the ceremony and party Decira chose four young gentlemen to be her court of honor.  At the reception they performed two dances, including one traditional dance and the other a hip hop dance.  I was very impressed; they could have been professional dancers.

Decira has such a wonderful family and great group of friends.  Congratulations on this new chapter in your life!

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