Let’s face it, damitas are adorable
but they can be a handful too. You have enough on your mind without stressing over juvenile tantrums and meltdowns. So, here are tips for keeping yours happy and well behaved.
Make sure your damita knows what she has to do, and how and when she has to do it. “To communicate the importance of her role, while minimizing pressure, clearly explain her role well in advance,” recommends Veruka Vockner, of New York City-based Smitherman & Barnwell, which designs flower girl and damita dresses. “This will avoid hurt feelings, miscommunication and upset parents.”
Get parents in on the act. After explaining the damita’s role and your expectations to both the damita and her parents, have her parents, follow up with pep talks and rehearsals at home. This will help her get used to her duties, the crowds that’ll be watching her, and make everyone feel more comfortable. The anticipation will also add to her enthusiastic participation.
Give a shy damita a boost of self-confidence. She no doubt looks up to you as a role model. Make sure she knows you chose her especially to play this important role in your quince because she means so much to you and you know she won’t let you down.
Make her feel part of the group. If you have a luncheon rehearsal, for instance, invite her; schedule her fittings with those of the rest of your court; have her attend all rehearsals. Being included will boost her comfort level around the other (bigger) girls, while encouraging her to act like a “big girl” herself.
Designate someone to be in charge of your damita and her needs. Pick a patient child-loving yet firm individual, whom the child trusts and likes.
Avoid sugar highs and crash-and-burn meltdowns. To keep her from overdosing on sweets and soda, supply your designated “damita monitor” with healthy treats like seedless grapes or plain popcorn.
Pre-empt problems. “Let the child know that having a temper tantrum is unacceptable and that if such should occur, she will be taken on a time-out by her parents,” advises Vockner.
Don’t be afraid of a little bribery. Let her know all the great things in store if she plays her role properly—everyone will be proud of her. She’ll wear a pretty gown, get her hair and nails done (mommy may even let her wear “big girl” lip gloss), and she’ll receive a beautiful doll during the ceremony. If you’re giving her one of your own, set aside private time to show her the dolls and let her pick her favorite. If you’ll be presenting her with a new doll, go shopping for it together. Either way, she’ll look forward to getting her treasure and, chances are, she’ll be on her best behavior to ensure she earns it.
During rehearsals, take frequent breaks to avoid overtiring her. Have a "goodie" bag on hand with toys, crayons and coloring book, etc. to keep her entertained during lull times. Don’t forget to bring the goodies along for the photo session and the party itself, either.
Most little beauties adore primping for the cameras, and every parent loves when others fuss over their princesses. Ask your photographer to take candid shots of your damita. Frame a favorite photo and give it to her parents as a thank-you offering.
A gift for your damita is the perfect way to thank her for being part of your Quince. How about a dainty bracelet, such as these two examples shown here from Smitherman & Barnwell?
Don't expect her to act like a perfect little grownup all the time. Be flexible. If she wants to take off her shoes and run off some of her excitement, smile and let her. Remember, the night is about everyone having fun!
Photo of damita and two quince court girls by Felix Aguero; all other photos courtesy of Smitherman & Barnwell, http://www.smithermanandbarnwell.com
Nayda Rondon, who was born in Cuba, is a New Jersey-based writer and editor who frequently covers the areas of beauty, fashion, health & fitness, and lifestyle trends. |
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omg what such cool advice,your a lifesaver, cuz i have this annoying little brat of a sister who i can't stand!!!! T2Ul!!! 
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Thank You,
Joe LeBlanc of Los Angeles, CA