A harpist serenaded the guests throughout the evening. Other forms of musical entertainment included singer and MC Glenn Watson, who performed a rendition of “Valerie” as guests were seated, as well as performers who regaled the audience with a series of classic opera duets.

A folded white napkin held the transparent place cards, on which names were adorned by a flowering design. A crystal napkin ring finished off the look. 

The silvery room glittered, dazzled, and dripped with diamonds and flowers, creating a luxurious and elegant ambience. The By Design Event Group designed and supplied the décor for the event. A mix of high and low table decoration was used to create rhythm and variety in the room, and all décor had to be floor supported as the venue had no hanging points. 

The seating plan was printed onto a giant antique mirror supplied and decorated by the By Design Event Group. 80 guests attended the event, a perfect honor of Valerie's 80th birthday.

Strands of crystal and large hanging teardrop pendants completed the sparkling décor.

The lime-and-coconut flavored birthday cake was made by local custom baker Popple Lane. The cake was decorated with tiny pearls and adorned with a diamond number “80.” Candles placed around the cake table lit up the gems on the cake.

Popple Lane also made individual miniatures of the cake as take-home gifts for guests.

The décor from the By Design Event Group included oil lamps and candles along with a cornucopia of white roses. The roses were impossible to obtain in local markets at the time and had to be hand-carried by the designers Basil and Marcus from Melbourne, a 90-minute flight.

Valerie cutting the cake.