I wanted to host a small reception for Tala’s baptism, as is traditional. (“It’s a big deal—like a wedding, but smaller,” is how I explained it to our friends here.) So I went online to see how Manila moms do their baptismal receptions and first birthday parties.
Maybe I’ve just gotten used to the laid-back ease and homemade charm of European children’s parties, but somewhere between the elaborate Western rodeos, vintage circuses, and Parisian patisserie parties (complete with a “Rue du Glitter Tattoo” and ), I felt… intimidated.
“I just can’t,” I mumbled to myself as I scrolled past pictures of Polo by Ralph Lauren themed loot bags, Hello Kitty centerpieces and fully staffed craft tables during Tala’s naps. In desperation, I grabbed at one thing I thought I could at least manage: a cute cake.
Remembering Chuvaness’s adorable birthday cake led me to at Petron La Vista—just steps away from Santa Maria Della Strada, where we chose to have Tala baptized. Perfect! Squelching my doubts about hosting a christening reception at… a gas station (remember, I moved away before this Petron station became a trendy hangout), it was too convenient to resist.
I sent my cake request to sisters Lora and Cielo via Facebook, and booked The Royal Piccadilly for afternoon tea, sight unseen. Without a single balloon, bunting or tarpaulin banner, this lame-ass mom showed up on the day of the reception to find a wonderful, wonderful surprise.
Let’s start with this gorgeous cake. I asked for a cake in purple and pink with stars and clouds. With an angel tucking Tala to sleep under a blanket of stars. Oh, and Tala’s stuffed giraffe. Check, check, and check! in the sweetest way.
And could it be ombre inside, too? Sure. No biggie.
Then there was the buffet of savory sandwiches and sweet treats for teatime. Everything was decorated according to the purple and pink star theme I had vaguely suggested.
Cranberry scones, photo courtesy of The Royal Piccadilly
Mini cupcakes, photo courtesy of The Royal Piccadilly
Finger sandwiches, photo courtesy of The Royal Piccadilly
Star cookies, photo courtesy of The Royal Piccadilly
I was delighted to find flowers, buntings, even paper stars scattered on the tables. Simple and sweet, all without being asked, and at no extra cost. (Have I mentioned that I found their party menu options very reasonable?) Asian customer service, I’ve missed you so.
Photo courtesy of The Royal Piccadilly
Photo courtesy of The Royal Piccadilly
And the restaurant itself turned out to be small, cozy and pretty—just as I had hoped it would be.
Photo courtesy of The Royal Piccadilly
Photo courtesy of The Royal Piccadilly
We had a lovely afternoon tea party at The Royal Piccadilly. I’m indebted to Cielo and Lora for their delicious food, gracious hosting, and for basically saving me from looking like a totally lame mom!
2/F Petron La Vista
Katipunan Avenue, Quezon City
Tala’s cake is sooo cute!!! Parang ang hirap kainin haha
We had a lot left over! We also saved the topper, it’s in my mom’s fridge haha.
Deepa! Thanks for blogging about the party and tagging us. It was so nice to meet you and to have you at the store!
We really enjoyed hosting your pink and lavender, twilight-ish party! We really hope to see you and your family soon 
Thank YOU! We really enjoyed too (obviously, haha). Hope to stop by for one of your yummy cupcakes next time we’re back home!
What a lovely afternoon tea party. The cake looks sooo adorable.
Thanks for your comment, Jo-anne!