If you look as good and stylish as entrepreneur Joy Rustia when you turn 60 years young, then everyone will want to be a “seniorella.” Surrounded by doting husband Joel and their equally beautiful and talented daughters Tara, Gilly and Keana, the Rustia family pulled out all the stops at the Shangri-La The Fort ballroom with a New York speakeasy theme that completely mesmerized the guests. Requested attire was black, formal gowns for the stylish ladies.
A platform two stories high contained an orchestra and band with Zsa Zsa Padilla regaling everyone with favorite hits that had us singing along. The special guest appearance of Black Eyed Peas’ Apl.De.Ap (who had just arrived from the US for this special celebration) brought enthusiastic applause.
But the pièce de résistance that really brought the house down was the gorgeous celebrant joining the famous rapper/artist onstage for a hip-hop number with a rousing finale that included local stars Dingdong Dantes, John Estrada, Angelu and Wowie Rivera, together with Joy’s high school classmates, her best-dressed ladies’ group, and Alabang neighbors.
We learned that multi-awarded director and event planner Teena Barretto conceptualized the idea in only a week. She then made sure to gather the best musical directors, lighting directors, writers and professional choreographers for this outstanding birthday celebration that will certainly be difficult to top.
As Joy enthused, “My family and friends are my constant. I’ve cherished the support, love and experiences shared over the years. My valued employees have been my driving force for my passion and perseverance to achieve my goals.”