Ladies, it’s almost time to don your finest hat or fascinator; men, prepare to dust off your top hat and tails.
OK, perhaps it won’t be quite that formal, but the first ladies of the Langleys are serving high tea in support of a cause that is close to their hearts.
Hosted by Debbie Froese, wife of Township of Langley mayor Jack Froese, and Jean Schaffer, wife of acting Langley City mayor Ted Schaffer, Thank You For Caring — A Christmas Tea Fundraiser, will benefit the Langley Christmas Bureau.
Tea, coffee, sandwiches and desserts will be served on Sunday, Nov. 17, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Cascades Ballroom at the Coast Hotel and Casino.
This is the second time the Christmas Tea has been held, said the Froese’s daughter, Marilyn Morgan, who is helping co-ordinate the event.
Last year, with only a month to plan it, the event raised more than $10,000, she said.
This year, she has her sights set on bringing in double that amount for the Christmas Bureau, helping to ensure that as many Langley families as possible have a very Merry Christmas.
Despite its ‘high tea’ format, the event is actually fairly casual, said Morgan.
Although it is predominantly women who are expected to attend the tea, last year’s event drew “a pretty good show of men,” said Morgan.
It’s also a wonderful opportunity for a bit of mother-daughter time, she noted.
“It’s a fabulous start to the Christmas season,” said Morgan.
“It’s just a lovely afternoon. Everyone looks forward to supporting charity, and Langley Christmas Bureau is such a wonderful charity.”
Desserts are being supplied by Frosting Cupcakery, while entertainment will be provided by Langley Ukulele Ensemble, the Horvath Family and the Langley Community Music School.
Christmas Bureau co-coordinator Jim McGregor will serve as MC.
The event will also include door prizes and a silent auction featuring about 30 items, donated by local businesses.
Canucks tickets will be auctioned off and there will also be a raffle for a hotel stay in Whistler and Ziptrek passes.
Tickets are $25 per person. The purchase of 10 tickets reserves a table.
Tickets are available at Frosting Cupcakery, JD Farms, Langley Christmas Bureau, Birthplace of B.C. Gallery, Ella’s ladies wear in Brookswood, and the Walnut Grove UPS store.