central massachusetts event planning guide issue 4

Editor: Charles C. Parrilla

Graphics: 376 Studios [email protected]

Photography: A Perfect Pictures Photography & Video aperfectpictures.com

Writers: Gail Stanton Rebecca M. Cuevas

Address: CP Publishing PO BOX 84 Southbridge, MA 01550

Telephone: (508) 714-9112

Fax: (508) 499-3126

Website: cppublishing.net

Email: [email protected]

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History of Quiceañeras

Summer Fun with CoCo Key Water Resort

On Track with Tri-State Speedway

How to Save Money on Your Quinceañera

Roll On America

Table of Contents

Address:CP PublishingPO Box 84Southbridge, MA 01550

Email:[email protected]

Telephone:(508) 714-9112

Introduction from the Publisher

A sweet fifteen party, also known as a Quinceañera, is an event that girls dream of for years- and it often takes more then a year to prepare for! In this issue of the Central Mas-sachusetts Event Planning Guide we are focusing on helping your family to plan out every detail of your special event.

The history of the Quinceañera is one rich in Aztec culture and has progressed to several South American countries over the years. It is now a prominent fixture in America as well, with Latino families celebrating the sweet fifteen birthday party as part of their daughter’s transition into adulthood.

You will find articles, numerous vendors and valuable information in this issue to help you prepare for your special day- as well as solid, practical advice. We have also included budget information to help you to attain your celebration goals. It is our recommendation that you start to plan your event as early as possible.

Our quarterly magazine focuses on several events a year, in an effort to help you throw the party of your dreams, no matter how big or small your budget is!

Here at CMEPG we are thrilled to be able to help you as you prepare your celebration and welcome any advice you may have for future editions of our magazine.

Congratulations on your big day!

The idea of the presentation of young women to society started in this country in 1748 when 59 colonial Philadelphia families held “Dancing Assemblies,” the forerunner to the Debutante Ball. The tradition continues today throughout the United States with the majority of balls being held from November through January.

A startling tradition that has the potential for the beginning the tradition of Debutantes existed for over a thousand years. Chaste girls would sell their virginity in the temple of Artemis in Grecian times. The money obtained from this would be given to the temple. However, a Christian emperor in 682 CE outlawed this practice. I have not investigated this topic in-depth but find it interesting and worthy of further inquiry. On that tid-bit of information then let us turn back again to the tradition of Quinceañeras.

On that tid-bit of information then let us turn back again to the tradition of Quinceañeras and find the roots of that tradition as opposed to the tradition of the European counterpart. Quiceañeras has its roots buried deeply embedded in Mayan and Aztecan history. In Mayan and Aztecan history, we learn that at the age of about fifteen, young women were considered mature enough to wed and begin a family as well as take on adult responsibilities. Their mothers formally acknowledged this coming to sexual maturity as they were directed in how to fulfill their duties as a wife, to obey the decorum and dictates of society as well as various forms of celebrations that to this day remain elusive to modern man.

Women by this age were considered experts in duties of womanhood or entered into training for the priestess profession, but the entrance into the position of woman was one that was highly regarded and welcomed by all those within their culture. What we do know is that with the invasion of Spaniards and the conquest of South America, the traditions and religions became blended and the traditional Quiceañera as we know it today was born.

The traditional Quinceañera is a celebration of a young Hispanic woman coming to the age where her family acknowledges and celebrates with her that she is now a young woman and no longer a child. Unlike the European counterpart, the Quiceañera has more depth than ensuring the continuation of the noble bloodlines and securing family fortunes. No, the Quinceañera celebration is a time of affirming of faith, family traditions, good morals, and preparedness to take on adult roles within the family as well as recognition of her sexual maturity. In the Quinceañera celebration, unlike the debutante party, solely is a time of celebrating the mile stone of a young lady into adulthood and is not a way of presenting her as eligible for marriage where in deals are sealed with a “good” marital agreement.

Throughout the many years of invasive education and persuasion by European Societal forces, the tradition of Quinceañera has maintained its place in preserving the traditions of Hispanics throughout the Americas and honoring our young women as they are gently ushered into the age of adulthood. Quiceaneras is celebrated through out Latin America in many various forms and styles. It remains the fairy tale dream for many young Hispanic girls. By : Rebecca M. Cuevas De Caissie

History of Quiceañeras

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If you’re looking for some summer fun no matter what the season, the number one premiere place to plan a party of any kind, is the CoCo Key Water Resort in Fitchburg, MA. Associated with Courtyard by Marriott, the park first opened in 2008 and has been a hit with both kids and adults ever since.

According to Group Sales Manager Lori Ruggiero, the indoor water park has hosted parties for up to 800 people at a time. “We have a 1040 person capacity and yes, we have had to turn people away,” she said.

Although turning people away is a rare occurrence- a trip to CoCo Keys clearly shows why that has happened. With numerous water attractions that satisfy everything from the youngest of visitors to those with a daredevil lust, the park offers much more than aquatic attractions, they also have several food options, and two arcades. There is also the Wet Rooster Bar for the adults to enjoy.

With party options ranging from birthday to company holiday celebrations, there is something for everyone at the resort. And prices vary depending on which options you select.

Guests at the hotel can buy a package that includes access to the water park and arcades or daily visitors can purchase an individual entrance ticket.

According to Mrs. Ruggiero, the site has been host to summer camp groups, girl scouts and organizations doing fundraisers. There is no end to the type of parties available and all it takes is a call to find out when you can bring your next event to the water park. “We have had birthday parties for 1 year olds, Sweet 16 parties and even parties for 21 year olds. Age doesn’t matter, everyone loves coming to CoCo Keys.” she said.

The center offers water slides, an indoor-outdoor spa with a giant whirlpool that connects to the outside via a swim passage, an activity pool with lily pads, water basketball and a coral reef backdrop that constantly changes. There is also a zero-depth entry pool for young visitors to play in.

For a complete list of party options and other information about the parks various amusements and options, please contact the center at 978-342-7100.

http://www.cocokeywaterresort.com By : Gail Stanton

Summer Fun with CoCo Key Water Resort

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Tri-State Speedway in Dudley MA is well known for the entertainment factor it offers. Truly fun for all ages, the center offers a variety of amusements the whole family can enjoy.

Of course, the main attraction is the 22,000 square foot track that was designed to give the feel of a real race track, complete with high performance electric carts. The center also offers billiards, mini golf, electric bowling and an arcade center and snack hut.

It is the very uniqueness of the center that makes it a hot spot for parties of all kinds and for all ages. There is a 1000 foot play place that offers entertainment for the youngest of visitors and whole families can find something to enjoy at the center.

In an effort to meet the needs of all their guests, the center added bumper carts for kids a few years ago, an amusement that is perfect for children 4-8. According to the center, the carts allow children the thrill of learning to drive early!

With so much to do, party options abound, and can be tailor made to the age of guests and the number of races to be run. The center will provide soda, pizza, invitations and all paper goods, but does not supply the cake when you plan your party with them.

For those looking to hit the track, racing requirements include height restrictions for both drivers and passengers, with all drivers holding a valid state drivers license. Six carts run at a time and minors must have a liability waver signed by a parent. All participants view a safety video and instruction film. Each race lasts 5 minutes, equaling 10-15 laps.

In an era of themed party options, Tri-State Speedway offers a variety of amusements that can not be equaled elsewhere in the local area. With reasonable fees and plenty of fun to choose from, the speedway will provide a party your family won’t forget!

When planning your next party, log onto our website to view the options available, and to find out pricing information and date availability.

http://www.tristatespeedways.com By : Gail Stanton

On Track with Tri-State Speedway

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It’s always wise to avoid unnecessary expenses that add $$$ here and there, even if you have an ample budget. If you manage your budget effectively, you will not only spend less, but you can also use your savings to buy something else or put money away for your college education.

Not everyone has an unlimited budget to celebrate a quinceañera. Most of us have to make a sacrifice, save, and even go into debt in order to realize this once-in-a-lifetime dream. Nevertheless, though you may not have the blessings of King Midas, you can take advantage of what you have and make your celebration one of your best experiences. Before making any plans, have an earnest talk with your parents about what kind of budget you will have. Don’t spend more than what you have. Once you have an estimated budget, assign dollar values to each element of your celebration.

Make a priority list and organize a working schedule. Creating lists not only helps you to remember your priorities, but also allows you to keep track of what you have bought and how much money you have spent. First and foremost, make a guest list.

Keep in mind that you have to be sure of what you want before purchasing anything. Many times we end up wasting money on something that, in the end, we will not use. If you plan ahead, you can begin purchasing items and taking advantage of special sales. Don’t leave important purchases until the last minute. Take your time to compare prices and reserve everything you need to rent or order ahead of time so as to avoid last minute price hikes.

An infallible secret to save some money is to find a simple and easy way to do things. For example, if you don’t have that much money to buy flowers and decorations, use dark or stroboscopic lights, which you can rent at an affordable price. It’s also a good idea to rent a beautiful venue that does not require much additional decoration. You may also rent a dress that fits you well instead of buying a hand-made dress that you’ll never wear again. If you want to take it a step further, and you don’t like dresses with corsets and full skirts, you can wear a simple dress that you may also use for future events such as weddings or a friend’s quinceañera.

First Use Your Imagination, Then Take Out Your WalletPicture in your head what you want to do; think about those who you want to be present at your celebration and what memories you would like them to have of your quinceañera. Afterwards, you can write down your ideas and decide what you really want. Most importantly, if you don’t need to spend all of the money, you can use what is left for your college tuition.

If you don’t have everything you dreamed of for your quinceañera, don’t get frustrated. Enjoy every moment of your celebration, no matter how elaborate it may be. Share this moment with your significant others and keep the memories. Only then will the money you spent become the best investment in your life.

How to Save Money on Your Quinceañera

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Celebrating 30 years of fun this year, the Roll on America Fun Center in Lancaster, MA provides a number of ‘activity based party’ options for kids of all ages. While the center sees most of their birthday celebrations centered on the 6-14 year old crowd, there is no age limit.

“We’ve had parties from the youngest two year olds to grandparents, explained Party Planner Marcin Jean of the options the center offers.

Whether it be quad or inline skating or Laser Storm Laser Tag, the center has numerous wallet friendly party options to suit a variety of party needs and sizes.

There are currently five main party options to choose from. The Sizzling Summer Party, Power Play Party, Teen Party, Make Your Own Party and the Illumination2 Party. There is also a list of extras that can be added to most of the party plan options.

Hosting a party at Roll on America offers many amusements and helps parents to avoid many of the pitfalls of party planning. Not only can a party be booked in advance, there is always the ‘last minute’ option to hosting your party at the center.

“We can do a party with one day notice,” explained Mr. Jean.

The option has been a handy one over time as many customers have moved their planned outdoor parties to the center due to inclement weather. It is also an option that is not always available at other centers.

Part of the allure of the center for kids is the lighting, game options and music. The center even has a soft play area for its smallest visitors. There is also a live DJ who will play requests for music.

You can book a large private party at the facility or a small one to be held during a public skate session. Either way your guests are guaranteed to have an incredible time, no matter what their age! Or if you want to rent out the whole facility, you can. With so many options to choose from, the Roll On America Family Fun Center should top your family’s party choice list!

http://www.rollonamerica.com By : Gail Stanton

Roll on America

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ACCOUNTANT Salas 508-892-1793

ALTERATIONS Alexis (24) 508-791-0412

BEAUTICIANS Josefinas (06) 508-752-3344

BRIDAL SHOPS Alexis (24) 508-791-0412 Carbonneau (07) 508-595-0400 Casa Fiesta (19) 781-593-9109 Desired Weddings 860-963-7664 La Canastilla Ideal (17) 508-799-0059Lorens (21) 508-347-5222 The Special Event (13) 508-624-9392

CLOWNS Azucarin 978-885-9309 Chiroflita (22) 978-534-8732

DECORATIONS Casa Fiesta (19) 781-593-9109 D’Toda Party Center 978-479-4301Ingrid (24) 978-537-5254 Kelly`s Party Store 978-459-0287 Mendez (16) 978-685-4068 Minervas (09) 508-799-9180 R & R Party Store (21) 978-686-0308 Rosemarys (10) 508-799-4600 Sonia & Andy (20) 508-754-6117

DISC JOCKEY Big Daddy (10) 774-535-1057DJ Berto (17) 508-335-7203DJ Chino (09) 978-847-4348International DJs (19) 774-253-4093MCDJ (21) 508-365-9754

A - J Planning Guide Directory

CAKES Bean Counter 508-754-0505Crown Bakery 508-852-0746Ingrids (24) 978-537-5254 Isabels (14) 781-599-1335Rosemary (10) 508-799-4600

CATERER / FOOD ARRANGEMENTS Edible Arrangements (13) 508-797-9200

ENTERTAINMENT CoCo Key Water Resort 978-342-7100Jillians (19) 508-793-0900 Tristate Speedway (16) 508-671-9030

FLOWERS Fabulous Roses (25) 508-791-4723Mendez (17) 978-685-4068Perros (06) 508-755-7744Plante 508-752-1444

GIFTS & FAVORS Casa Fiesta (19) 781-593-9109Ilucion Party Store (17) 508-757-9702Kelly`s Party Store 978-459-0287La Canastilla Ideal (17) 508-799-0059Minervas (09) 508-799-9180 R & R Party Store (21) 978-686-0308 Rosemarys (10) 508-799-4600

HORSE & CARRIAGE Hollow Brook Farms 413-245-9325

INVITATIONS Joel Suarez (09) 508-203-0427

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE George Cortes 508-868-4349 Yarisbeth Vega (12) 978-265-0967

A Comprehensive Listing of New England Event Services

LIMOUSINEGander (25) 508-434-0565 Grays (12) 508-869-6365 Kennedy 617-799-0220 Limo Affair (07) 508-731-0226 Ruben (04) 888-782-3670

MASTER OF CEREMONYBilly Ayala 774-535-4161

MORTGAGE & REAL ESTATEWells Fargo (29) 860-712-1271 Community Realty (29) 508-714-9112

PHOTOGRAPHERSA Perfect Pictures (1&2) 508-714-9112 HJM (26) 508-753-2230 Joel Suarez (24) 510-205-9284 Scky 617-394-0900 Yaritza Colón (14) 774-230-0068

RESTAURANTSBrisas (07) 508-459-9801 Cancuns (14) 508-839-8800 Ixtapa 978-582-9702

RECEPTION FACILITIESBeechwood Hotel 508-453-1111Colonial Hotel 978-630-2500Courtyard by Marriot 978-602-1933DiBurros 978-372-0441FourPoints by Sheraton 978-840-5537Haverhill Country Club 978-373-1146Holiday Inn, Marlborough 508-481-3000La Salle Center 508-765-0601Leicester Country Club 508-892-1390Periwinkles (Back Cover) 508-832-9705Salem Cross Inn (20) 508-867-2345Wachusett Villiage Inn 978-571-2524

L - Z Planning Guide Directory

SHOES Carbonneau (07) 508-595-0400Shoes to Dye For 508-653-6063

TRAVEL AGENCYAlpha Travel 508-753-2242BC Travel (22) 978-345-1499Caribbean Travel 508-767-0172

TUXEDOSArmando (12) 508-757-1530 Bonardi (04) 508-754-4036The Special Event (13) 508-624-9392

VIDEOGRAPHYA Perfect Pictures (1&2) 508-714-9112Sidon Video (17) 508-852-1085

A Comprehensive Listing of New England Event Services

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