On Sunday, May 4th, the St. Sarkis Church Hall was transformed into a stunning Victorian garden as the Ladies Guild hosted its Mother’s Day Tea Party. Designed with elegance and grace, the space was adorned with blue and white hydrangeas, white tulips, cascading pink and white wisteria, and vintage candlelight, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for all in attendance.
Over 220 guests were welcomed with sparkling Bellini drinks, setting the tone for a cheerful and relaxing afternoon. Mistress of Ceremonies Kristine Jamgotchian graciously opened the event, welcoming everyone and wishing them a joyful time and a Happy Mother’s Day. She then invited Der Nareg to lead the opening prayer, blessing the gathering and honoring the spirit of motherhood.
Following the prayer, Kristine introduced Ladies Guild Chairlady Jeanette Nenejian, who warmly greeted guests, thanked them for attending, and expressed heartfelt gratitude to the hardworking Mother’s Day Tea Party Committee. Each member was acknowledged and asked to stand for recognition:
Kristine Jamgotchian (Chair), Jeanette Nenejian (Co-Chair), Lena Felice, Dr. Louiza Kubikian, Christine Bedrossian, Nayda Voskerijian, Yn. Annie Terterian, Loucine Megherian, Madlen Hazarian, Meline Yaziciyan, Ani Fernandez, Argine Wanesian, Emma Biramian, Hilda Gorgissian, Lori Varjabedian, Nazik Marino, Salpie Megerian, Shogher Aseyan, Sonya Nenejian, and Zepuir Ardzivian.
Special appreciation was also given to the many Ladies Guild members who generously helped on both Saturday and Sunday.
A touching tribute was made as Jeanette announced that the delicate tea cups used during the event were donated In Loving Memory of Digin Mary Arslanian by her daughter, Arda Arslanian. Each guest was gifted a tea cup to take home—a beautiful keepsake from the day.
As the afternoon continued, guests mingled, laughed, took photos, and enjoyed a delicious menu prepared with love by the Tea Party Committee and members of the Ladies Guild. The room was filled with joy and togetherness as everyone savored the beautiful afternoon.
Kristine then excitedly introduced the entertainer of the day, Ruzanna—a beloved Christian, comedian, actress, and singer who brought energy and joy to the crowd. Her interactive performance had guests dancing, laughing, and reflecting. In a humorous and heartwarming moment, Ruzanna—currently in a serious relationship—asked who had been married the longest. Two guests proudly responded with “over 60 years.” When asked for advice, both charmingly replied by motioning to “zip your mouth”—a moment that had the entire room laughing. To end her set on a heartfelt note, Ruzanna led the audience in singing Partezum Varder Bacvac by Ruben Matevosyan, with everyone joining in joyfully.
To everyone’s delight, Ruzanna welcomed surprise guest singer Tonee Marino, who performed his fun and exciting new song Im Hamar Es.
Following this musical interlude, Kristine introduced Dr. Louiza Kubikian, who had the honor of presenting the Mother of the Year award. With touching and heartfelt words, Louiza shared her admiration and personal connection to the recipient before announcing Mrs. Luiza Kalustian as this year’s honoree. The crowd rose in applause as Louisa, visibly moved, was joined by her loving family—daughter Mrs. Alina Kochoumian, daughter-in-law Mrs. Daniela Kalustian, and granddaughter Dr. Elise Artim—for this meaningful recognition.
The afternoon concluded with the much-anticipated raffle drawing, featuring 32 thoughtfully curated baskets prepared by the Raffle Committee. From jewelry and chocolate-covered strawberries to cookbooks, restaurant gift cards, theater tickets, GOAT merchandise, and Charlotte Tilbury makeup—there was truly something for everyone. Congratulations to all the lucky winners! The event wrapped up with smiles and warm farewells, marking a beautiful celebration of mothers, friendship, faith, and community.
A sincere thank you to all who attended and supported this beautiful gathering—and especially to the Tea Party Committee and Ladies Guild members whose tireless dedication and love made it all possible.