When the inimitable Ayala Alabang top hostess and civic worker Joanne Matschuck celebrated her recent birthday, Manila's social set came in full force and enjoyed the wondrous evening, notwithstanding their full holiday schedule. Right beside her to entertain the guests was her devoted and ever-faithful husband, Gunter.

Indeed, it would take a socially adept and gracious Joanne to bring together cliques of varied persuasions and loyalties, and yet, it was an altogether successful night as the hostess expertly navigated her way through various tables scattered all over her huge showcase of an elegant and warm home.

Joanne shared, "My 70th birthday is a significant milestone and a time to celebrate my life, achievements and experiences. It's an opportunity to reflect on the wisdom and knowledge I've gained over the years, the relationships I've built and the impact I've had on the world around me."

Busy as she was preparing for the evening, she took some "time to think about my past experiences, the lessons I've learned and the moments that have shaped me into the person I am today." At the same time, she intended this get-together as "an excellent opportunity to gather friends and my family to celebrate the milestones I've achieved and the memories we have created together."

Thinking of her children and those of her friends, she spoke about "sharing my life lessons and experiences with younger generations. My insights can be valuable and inspiring to those who come after me."

On the other hand, even as she looked back, she considered her natal day as an "equally great moment to set new goals and aspirations for the future — whether I learn something new, travel to a dream destination or set new goals that can keep me motivated and engaged."

Keeping true to her generous and compassionate self, she will remain active in civic work to "give back to my community or a cause that's important to me — whether supporting charitable organizations or contributing to the well-being of others. Both give greater meaning to this celebration of seven decades of triumphs, challenges and receiving God's grace and mercy."

As the celebration progressed throughout the festive night, she shared, "It's a time to honor my journey, celebrate my accomplishments and look forward to the adventures that lie ahead." Of course, being active on these various fronts would keep her healthy. Traveling to various parts of Asia is in her schedule because "I'd like to learn new cultures, explore new destinations, learn something new to keep my mind sharp and engaged, revisit friends and create lasting memories."

Family enterprises

Through all these years, Joanne's passions for cooking and home decorating have always been admired by friends. She is involved in their family enterprises and is known to organize beautiful wedding receptions in their idyllic Romblon resort. Two of her children are involved in their renewable energy business "and they contribute to the growth of our business." She and Gunter have five children including her stepson. She pointed out, "The closeness and active involvement of multiple generations in our family life is something we cherish."

As in the past Matschuck parties, food was superb — this one provided by Neil's Kitchen, although Joanne whipped up their family favorites, such as osso buco, roast pork belly, roast leg of lamb, charcuterie board of assorted hams and cheeses with nuts, dried fruits and red grapes, baked feta cheese with raspberry jam and honey on top of baked brie. The flowing wine and beer, along with the natural herb juices, such as pandan juice and camote tops complemented the sumptuous dinner.

John Gaddi and Chuck Gueco led the games with the guests answering the question: "How well do you know the Honoree?" The laughter at their answers added to the night's energy.

Joanne received many interesting and precious gifts, such as the practical toothpick dispenser from Nikki Jimenez and the unique Red Tigers Eyes necklace given by enduring partners John Gaddi and Sonny Tanchanco. In turn, Joanne distributed puppy stuffed toys in pink color as party favors for all the lady guests.