Disney recently asked me to participate in their annual "Quinceañera: A Dream Come True" event as host and celebrity Godfather, to take place at Disneyland.

I arrived at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel. My VIP Tour Guide, Christy, who was a wonderful hostess, greeted me.

She proceeded to escort me to my room, where I was to relax while I waited to go down to the stage-area to perform the sound-check and meet with the producers. So I turned my computer on and started working, ordered some food from room service, and before I knew it, it was time to go to rehearsal. Here is a picture of the view outside my hotel room.

Here is a picture of Christy and I on our way down Main St. USA for the sound-check.

(Foto: Eduardo Xol)


Upon arriving to the "magical" site of the event, I met with the producers, who immediately had me get on stage and rehearse some of my lines as introductory host of the gala.

I knew I was going to be acting as emcee in both English and Spanish during the event and while that's never been a problem for me in the past, I have to admit, I was a little nervous. Mary McGarry of Disney's Talent Relations Department continuously kept coming up to me telling me what a good job I was doing –which definitely put me at ease. Thanks Mary!!

(Foto: Eduardo Xol)

After the sound-check, Christy took me to the trailer where I would change into my suit and would wait to meet the Quinceañera I would be escorting, Erika Macias, who I'd heard so much about. Mary then took me to officially meet my Quinceañera, Erika Macias from Northern California. I was very excited about surprising her and getting to talk to her about the whole experience.

Erika looked radiant. On our way to the red carpet, she told me about her heritage. She is part Mexican and part Native American. She also mentioned how privileged she felt to be able to participate in the event and what a thrill it was for her. We briefly got to stop and talk to Cristina Saralegui (the Honorary Godmother), who gracefully congratulated Erika on turning 15. Once we got to the red carpet, we were immediately interviewed by all of the press present. There was media from México, Puerto Rico and of course, the
U.S. Here is a picture of Erika and I on the red carpet.


(Foto: Eduardo Xol)


Showtime! After walking the red carpet, it was time for the show to begin. Everything was ready; Sleeping Beauty's Magic Castle was lit, the stage was set and the prompter rolled on.

(Foto: Eduardo Xol)

I had the pleasure of speaking to the audience and introducing the "Madrina" for the evening, Spanish talk-show queen, Cristina Saralegui. Here she is with Mickey Mouse on stage!

(Foto: Eduardo Xol)

The entire event was magical. Disney always gets it right. I could tell that all of the Quinceañeras and celebrity Godparents had a fantastic time. However, all good things must come to an end...so it was time to go home after sharing in a magical day at Disneyland and making the deserving girls feel special on their day.

(Foto: Eduardo Xol)

Get ready for the launch of 15A, the website. It is a place for teens who want to be in the know!" Tune-in to find out who our very first 2008 Miss Quince Girl is. You'll have to wait to find out, but you can guess who the padrino is...it's me!!

Blog you all soon!

Eduardo