In this ceremony, the birthday girl sits in a chair while her father, grandfather, godfather, uncle, or brother approaches her, carrying a decorative pillow with high heels.
The girl traditionally wore flat shoes, such as slippers, and the father ceremoniously helped her into her new high heels.
[3] While also performed at Bar and Bat Mitzvahs and Quinceañeras, this ceremony is common for Sweet Sixteen celebrations.
There are typically 16 candles, each given to special family members and friends by the birthday girl.
[5] Like most coming-of-age events, sweet 16s are common on TV, in movies (e.g. Sixteen Candles), music, books, and online.