By Jacqueline Vega
The Catholic Daughters of the Americas (CDA), Court Madonna #2067, along with the Seton Ladies, hosted their annual Spring Tea Party on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 12:30 PM. Bernadette Labat, Regent of CDA, Paulette Nordin, Vice Regent of CDA, and Mary Fogelson, who is both a Catholic Daughter and Seton Lady, worked together to make this Tea Party a special event to remember. Last year’s tea party was held around Mother’s Day, so it was decided to move the party to an earlier date this year in order to avoid any scheduling conflicts.
We had wonderful entertainment from the talented and lovely Jan Sandwich, who had been recommended by Catholic Daughter Margie O’ Boyle. Jan has been a performer/singer for more than 25 years. Dressed in a Victorian era “tea lady” costume, she treated the audience to a brief variety/comedy show and a beautiful rendition of “What a Wonderful World.”
Participants were also able to embrace their competitive side during this event, with a table-setting decoration contest. First place went to the “Bee Table,” where the ladies coordinated their cute yellow tea party hats with a helium bee ballon floating from the table’s center, along with a creative handcrafted hive as the centerpiece. Honorable mention for second place was the “Green Table,” which was overflowing with greenery with a yellow and white tulip centerpiece.
Father Williams also made an appearance at this event to bless the food before the party goers began eating and made a joke about being one of the few men in attendance, which was well-received with laughter. Considering the fun, entertainment, and the delicious tray of dessert options, one attendee at my table, Paula Sandoval, who was one of my personal guests from another parish, commented on how memorable it was even compared to last year. This year’s party consisted of cookies, cakes, doughnuts, and a delicious mousse cake in a cup.
The amazing thing about this event is how nicely it brings together the ladies of our parish along with their families: daughters, mothers, sisters, as well as their friends. It is a nice social event to unite and spend quality time together. There were plenty of hugs, comments of “so nice to see you,” and catching up with one another. Paulette says, “it’s always good to see the beautiful ladies all dressed up.” It is a great opportunity to dress up and feel elegant and proper for a time while creating wonderful memories, and it is so worthwhile. The Tea Party is contingent upon a yearly review, but because it is such a fun, joyous event, we expect it to continue as a popular tradition. Tickets are usually advertised in the church bulletins.
When asked what the most challenging part of organizing this event was, Paulette replied “it is just making sure everyone is in their place, making sure everything is running smoothly. Social events would never come together without the hearts and generosity of the volunteers.” Mary and Paulette specifically thanked and acknowledged the kitchen and serving staff and all others who made this year’s event possible.
If you are interested in contributing to our Parish Family or would like to join Catholic Daughters of the Americas or help with this event, please contact Bernadette Labat at 602-565-6429. Bernadette and Paulette are always thankful for those generous, kind people who help make this and our other events magical, happy memories for our parish families.
