More than a TEA PARTY

The table was set with lots of finger foods. The excitement grew as the clock ticked. His family was stuck in rush hour traffic. The three o'clock affair became four o'clock but that was just fine because it allowed the couple some extra time to chill with just us. As soon as his parents and siblings arrived the tea party began. Seating was informal. We used the living room dining room combo and everyone found a comfortable place. The younger crowd even opted for an additional impromptu BBQ of hot dogs because they had all missed lunch while getting ready for the party. Once all had eaten the formality took place. The couple gave their intention to become engaged. And they chose an exchange of jewellery to show their intent. She was gifted was a diamond pendent with matching earrings which her fiance helped her put on. His gift was a Baume & Mercier Classima watch which she proudly put on for him. Their ring exchange has been saved for their next formal ceremony.
The formality ended so quickly but that's the way events like this usually do. Lots of hugging and congratulations followed and then it was time to part. Each family had other events planned for the evening. Ours was a prearranged BBQ dinner at close family friend's, former mentors to our daughter who wanted to welcome the young man to their home too. And later that eve the couple had to go for dessert party with his cousins. We stayed on and chatted with our friends. It was all over too quickly.