Knowing that Jane Casbarian, the proprietor of world-famous Arnaud’s Restaurant, was going to be the big 7-0, Archie, Katy and Adrienne Casbarian planned a party for her that she would never forget. They wanted to surprise her with all of the things that she loves, and especially planned a menu that her husband Archie would have planned just for her. Jane isn’t only beautiful inside and out, she’s also loved by her children and daughter-in-law and all of her friends – the toasts certainly reflected that!
First, the invitation by Betty Hunley set the scene with Jane popping out of a cake. The centerpieces by Perfect Presentations were dolls with skirts created out of real flowers. Incredible large bouquets of Jane’s favorite flowers filled the cocktail rooms and the Irma Room, where a seated dinner was served. T-Ray the Violinist played while guests enjoyed wine, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, including gougeres stuffed with Fontina cheese and prosciutto; souffléed potatoes; marinated shrimp with soy-ginger vinaigrette wrapped with a peapod; and lobster with dill lemon butter and caviar.
Jane was then led into the Irma Room, where guests found their place cards and favors. The men received M&M’s featuring Jane’s face and her dog Momus on them placed inside a gumball machine. The ladies received a doll that looked just like Jane, complete with her favorite accessories: Momus, touches of Chanel (her favorite designer) and the diamond heart earrings that Archie, her husband, had designed for her years ago. Katie sent pictures to her friend in New York City, who created the one-of-a-kind dolls. After everyone was seated, the Arnaud’s band came to serenade her with a birthday song and the best surprise of all – Big Freedia came to sing Happy Birthday as well! Dinner featured her favorite things: crabmeat salad; quail consommé; filet mignon with foie gras, sauce Perigueux and shaved truffles; Annette potatoes; asparagus; and, of course, birthday cake. After dinner Adrienne had party games with favors for all of those who had correct answers.
It was an evening of sheer delight for a friend who deserves the very best!