Tammy's 21 party

You know the saying, 'it takes a village to raise a kid'?  Well this is definitely evident at a young girl or boy's 21st.  When I turned 21, most of my guests said that they felt like they we at a wedding.  In fact, my 21st was 3 times bigger than my wedding.  This is not because I was trying to be extravagant, My parents simply could not choose who to invite and who not to.  In fact, I couldn't remember a number of my guests because the last time I saw them was when I couldn't even pronounce their names. I'm sure Tammy's 21st was no different.  Of course, she hasn't had a wedding yet, and perhaps she actually could remember everyone's name.

When a girl (or boy) turns 21 in our family (and culture), the entire community is filled with excitement.  Of course there are more conditions to this excitement (and the celebration of this party), but I shan't discuss this right now.  Everyone starts planning this glorious and proud milestone and how they'd celebrate it.  Tammy is the eldest daughter in her family and her parents were absolutely elated by the prospect of the 21st.  So was I. 

Although, I don't normally photograph 21st's, this one was a bot different.  It's Tammy's 21st and I wouldn't miss being a part of it for anything.  I love planning events and I love Tammy too :)  Of course I didn't plan the entire event single-handidly, I had help. Lots.  Tammy's mom did a lot of the work and her friends weren't shy to help at all. 

The day started with us finishing off last minute decor (as most of it was DIY), adding a few new ideas and needing a lot of help.  The hall was then prepared, Tammy's hair and make-up was done, she got dressed and suddenly it was sunset.  Tammy and I decided to save time (and light); we'd do a quick photo shoot at the venue.  We did, however, make a quick 5 minute stop in the middle of nowhere to take a few photo's.  From there it was decor photo's and then the guests arrived.

Needless to say, the evening was a huge success and we had an extreme amount of fun.  

Tammy, my dearest cousin.  Congratulation with this milestone you've reached,  I trust that you will rock womanhood.  You are a pleasant young lady and you have a lot of people in your life who love you.  Your 21st was just proof of that.