Quinceaneras in Dominican Republic are more traditional than other countries. The celebration starts with a mass in a Catholic Church. This is important in their tradition, because the girl is receiving her blessing from the Lord. After the mass the rest of the Quinceanera is more enjoyable. The celebrant is accompanied by fourteen pairs of people and has her own escort. In total there are fifteen couples one for everyone year she has lived. The dance is also a waltz, but there are other dances, such as the salsa and merengue. Guests are expected to wear colorful clothing and maintain the celebrant as the center of the party.