Back-to-back birthday bash

The “Lord of Scents” Joel Cruz threw a “scent-sational” almost-60th birthday bash just a few shining bright moons ago. I say “almost” because it’s in line with Chinese tradition which avoids celebrating birthdays that end with 9 — or 19, 29 and 38. But that didn’t stop him from gathering his nearest and dearest for an all-out celebration at his Chateau de Milagros mansion in Sampaloc, Manila. This stunning property is named after his late Nanay Milagros, and he also honored her by serving a sumptuous dinner filled with lutong bahay that she used to make.

The party date also fell near the Chinese New Year, so it doubled as a CNY celebration. That’s why, the motif was filled with auspicious elements and lots of red! And if there’s one thing we know about our “Lord of Scents,” it’s that he goes all out with anything he does. He welcomed a whopping 400 well-wishers, from family and friends to celebrities. 

The 60th birthday celebrant, Joel Cruz.
Angola Consul Helen Ong.
Atty. Willie and Malou Martinez
Avic Cruz and Mags Cue.
Bong Prada Lim and Jean Saburit.
Bryant and Eimee Cragun.
Charles Recto, Richard Hinola and Faith Recto.
Cocoy Cordoba and Yoli Ayson.
Congresswoman Camille Villar and the columnist.
Jackie Lou Blanco.
Jas and Alvin Piemonte.
Margie Moran and Connie Garcia.
Reimer de Leon and Bell Ongpin.

And the highlight of the event? A huge raffle with six cash prizes worth P8,888 each, a 60-inch LED TV, P88,888, a franchise of Takoyatea worth P188,888 and Aficionado franchise worth P465,000. But beyond the prizes, it was also all out on love, especially with a surprise performance by Joel’s eight children who sang the “Sound of Music.”

You’d think with such a fab and eventful party that I’m ready to hit the bed right? Not yet! I had another grand party to hit — this time, the debut of the daughter of my dear friend, Maru Go. Winona Mari Go officially turned into a lady and celebrated with her loved ones at a stunning celebration at the Grand Hyatt Grand Ballroom. She glowed all evening in her custom-made Mark Bumgarner gown and cocktail by JC Regalado. What better way to enter womanhood than in style, right?

The Go family: William, dad Howee, the celebrator, mom Mary and youngest Wayanette.
Ina Sarosa and Rita Javelona.
THE columnist and the debutante Winona Go.
Some of the Best Dressed of the Night: Brenda Ngo, Carolyn Tan and Boy Lizaso.

I unfortunately arrived a little late for her celebration, but I had such a blast catching up with society friends and seeing Winona have fun. I’m sure this is a core memory she’ll cherish in this new chapter of adulthood.

Two amazing parties in one day! Truly, life is beautiful and we have so much to celebrate every day, both the big and small. Here’s to more wonderful moments in life. Cheers!