Turning 50 and lovin' it

Most women flinch at the thought of joining the big 5-0 circle or being branded as a golden girl. 

My good friend Ana Climaco, undoubtedly blessed with a loving family, caring relatives and supportive friends, decided to celebrate her half milestone with a fabulous party. It was an expression of gratitude to all the special people in her life.

From the moment guests set foot in Villa Rosario, a private enclave of the Climacos, they knew they were in for a magnificent evening. The resort offers an incomparable view of the Mactan Channel where the azure-blue waters lap gently against the shore.

Gamely adhering to the party theme, invitees donned colorful outfits reminiscent of the popular Broadway musical Mamma Mia! while sipping perfectly chilled margaritas.

As expected, executive chef Derek Dytian of Creative Cuisine whipped up a fantastic menu. For starters, there was a variety of mixed greens with a selection of condiments and dressings. Surrounding the festive tables were different food stations. Assorted pastas were paired either with wild mushroom and pesto cream sauce or Bolognese.  The carving station served Angus beef and chicken kebabs and lamb moussaka.

The evening’s entertainment showcased excerpts from the smash hit musical based on Abba songs. Relatives and friends expressed their warm sentiments for the celebrant with a couple of song and dance numbers. For starters, the festejadas’ mom Charito, together with sisters-in- law Ellen Climaco, Lydia Climaco, Blanquita Climaco and Consuelo Climaco Kingsley, performed a much-applauded, choreographed dance  number to the tune of Mamma Mia. Nephews Alphonso and Marco Alegrado delighted the invitees with their own interpretation of Don’t Stop Believing by Journey.

The much-anticipated part of the program was golden gal  Ana together with gutsy ladies sister Gemma Khodaverdi, Cathee Bernedo, Joy Climaco and June Marie Dosdos, dressed in beaded pantsuits, doing a fabulous adaptation of Super Trooper and Voulez Vous. Adding to the lively ambience was the La Mer Band, who played Abba songs in the background. 

The celebrant didn’t mind counting the years, counting the candles on the birthday cake, which was baked by Marisse Alvarez Sy, as she more importantly counted her many wonderful blessings.

Guests left pleased and happy with the party keepsakes that consisted of organic herb plants in decorative mini baskets which  were lovingly crafted by Ana herself.