Much-loved mother and Grandmother Astrid Sowma, enjoyed a lavish birthday celebration at Amazonia Churrascaria as her eight children congregated here on the special occasion, some arriving from Suriname in South America and from the USA, followed by eighteen grandchildren. Two great-grandchildren too young to attend parties sent their love, just before falling asleep! All family members convened for the special celebration over delicious dinner of perfectly grilled meats, Rodizio style, and cocktails, as a BIG surprise for the Matriarch who was told it would be a more casual family gathering. The reception, with French pink Nectar Imperial Champagne was followed by numerous trips to the salad bar and full dinner service by the friendly carvers and servers of Amazonia Churrascaria and dancing with live DJ mixing.
The planning started by email and phone, then Luiza, the event-planning sibling, arrived here four days ahead of the party to conclude the final details and give the party a special personal ‘family’ touch, attesting to strong bonds between members, as reflected in the spectacular room decoration.
The flowering private dining room was a total surprise for Astrid, as she walked in to Celine Dion’s music, her favorite vocalist. Following the Champagne toast she became emotional as Mariachi Perla Aruba entered the room singing some of her favorites.
On the dance floor, after dinner, Astrid showed her grandchildren that she’s still in top shape.
The Sowmas can trace their roots to the first Lebanese Maronites who came to Suriname in the 1890s, mostly from the Bcharre and Bazaoun municipalities in Lebanon. They are successful business people with doctors and economists among them, who contribute generously to their communities, and to charities, and can regularly be found on the boards of most service clubs, as active members.
