Appreciating Volunteers

Each year our church's Family Life Ministry sets aside an evening to celebrate the many volunteers who minister to babies, children and students.  It's an evening to get away from all things "kiddie" in order to enjoy visiting with one another and to celebrate the many wonderful things happening in these areas of ministry.  I (Maria) was invited to lead the team in planning and hosting this special event.  Our Family Life staff decided on the theme of "World Experience," which was a lot of fun to work with!

The event was held in the church "dining room/gym."  I'm pretty sure every old Baptist church has one of these lovely rooms.  In the South they're better known as the "Family Life Center."  It's not the most beautiful setting, but it works.  We set out to, in a small way, transform the room into a warm, welcoming and beautiful party venue.  With the help of many hands, we were able to set a nice tone for the evening.

Each round table, which sat eight, was set with a white table cloth.  Centerpiece vignettes consisted of a world map, small European style luggage, small globe, flags from around the world and a vintage looking postcard displayed on mini easels.

Each attendee received a small gift of a leather luggage tag, which first served as their napkin ring.

The event was catered by Doug Cook of DCCatering.  He served fabulous appetizers in a cocktail setting followed by a delicious buffet style meal.  A coffee bar and dessert bar were opened up to guests to round out the evening.  No one left hungry!

The dessert bar was simple, yet held visual impact, and set in the middle of the room.  Root Beer float shooters were served in small 3 oz glasses which displayed perfectly on the tiered metal tray stands. The Texas Sheet cake, Tiramisu with strawberries and chocolate, and Tres Leches Cake were served in chaffing dishes and platters.  It was beautiful and even more delicious!

It was a wonderful evening of fun, food and fellowship.  I found it a great privilege to serve my church by doing something I love very much....styling events!

These beautiful pictures were taken by Agung Fauzi of Seize The Day Photography.  Agung also provided a fabulous self automated photo booth for guests to enjoy.