My mom gave us our "real" jewelry at age 13 (like a right of passage, once a teen, we were allowed to wear real gems and gold, not the dipped stuff). My piece from her was a golden ring with my birthstone and tiny diamonds around it. It was very small and simple (not like the icky "bling" stuff you see now). My aunts had also given my mother things to give me the day I was born, and I was allowed to have them (the thin gold chain bracelet, a nice necklace, some earrings). We didn't get a big party or celebration til 16. 13 was a quiet occasion in our home, but very respected. I enjoyed it immensely.

16, my mom rented a dance hall and invited every crush I'd ever had (hee hee! And I got to dance with them all!!) and many of my good girl friends. I suppose a limo would have been a fun addition (but I'd done it for weddings of family already, so it wasn't new), but I don't really see a point in renting a hotel room for a party. I personally would much rather have the party in my home, and use the money I'd have spent on the room to hire someone to clean up!!! It's usually cheaper, and I feel much more at ease in my home.