Two birthdays and a garden party

Some people think that when you reach 30, everything starts going downhill. Wrinkles, cellulite, potbellies, love handles — these are just some of the fears that plague men and women as they approach another milestone.

But birthdays need not be troubled with such melancholy.

Our only child Eduard Loop recently turned 30 years old. He had no plans of celebrating his birthday this year. He just wanted things kept simple. But he changed his mind when his bowling buddies convinced him that being champions in the recently concluded bowling tournament at the Casino Español de Cebu, not to mention reaping the highest single score, called for a celebration.

It was a small gathering with just immediate family, relatives, and some closest of friends. Very true to Eduard’s good-natured, no frills and uncomplicated character. His partner, Patricia Garcia, flew in from Manila to be with the celebrant on his special day.

The festivities at the landscaped garden were laid out on   exquisitely set buffet tables offering a variety of cheeses, appetizers, a carving station and pasta corner and mouthwatering desserts, carefully prepared by chef Derek Dy Tian of Creative Cuisine.

As in most birthday celebrations, the highlight was the blowing of candles. Susan Sala, a dear friend whose natal day was the following day, joined Eduard. She had her own special cake lovingly baked by Monique Jarque.

The intimate and heartfelt birthday events were wonderful celebrations, which etched lovely memories guests are sure  to treasure for a long time.