We were fortunate to be part of an important day of a friend last week as Kami, a a young but talented photographer in her own right, celebrated her 18th birthday party. For those in the Philippines, the debut is a young lady’s coming of age party, where she is presented to family and friend who have been a part of their young lives. With debuts often being a formal suit-and-gown type of affair, Kami chose hers to be unique, one with a cosplay there surrounded by the cosplayers and photographers who have made a profound influence in her life.
Held at the lavish poolside of Mandarin Oriental in Makati, Kami’s 18th Birthday Cosplay Party started in the afternoon with everyone getting ready, donning their cosplays for the evening festivities. Guest trickled in throughout the subsequent hours until everyone was gathered and formally welcomed. After a splendid dinner the program began.
Of course, a debut wouldn’t be complete without the eighteen roses and candles. The event hosts had their own little twist into it with the 18 dances. Friends and family danced the night with Kami, who was utterly enchanting in her Elsa cosplay. Watching her dance with everyone was a delightful sight with the beautiful view of the moon and the lighted poolside. After the dance, the debutante had a 5-minute break to freshen up and getting ready for the for the next part of the program.
Next was the 18 treasures. Friends from the cosplay community, family members, high school friends and chosen guests came up the stage and waited their turn to say what their gift to Kami was. All the gifts are connected to Kami’s hobbies and interests. Some gave her makeup kits because they want to see her more of a lady as she would rather be seen in hoodies. Some gave gifts connected to anime and photography. She was indeed touched by the sincerity of the loving people around her.
Finally came the most emotional part of the program, the 18 candles. The most memorable part of the program was that Kami’s best friends were there. It made her really tearful to hear them say their best wishes to Kami. Strangely enough, I was invited to be part of it even though I was not a pretty lady. I had the chance to tell her what a wonderful person she was, always kind, caring and friendly, and that she had made a significant impact in people’s lives with her smile. I then invited everyone to sing the birthday song for her, with the song loud and clear that everyone really wished her the happiness she was feeling that moment.
There were other events like the cosplay catwalk, dance showdown, a photobooth, selfies, Kami’s cake-cutting, more selfies, then photoshoots with everyone. It was indeed a magical night filled with fun, tears, and much happiness. It was an event many won’t soon forget as Kami gets ready to face new challenges in life while knowing she has this many people supporting and wishing her well all the way.
We would like to thank Kami for inviting us to this splendid affair. We really are happy for you. Many thanks as well to the cosplayers and photographers who were there. The event was really magical with all the cosplayers around that it was dubbed KamiCon.
Many thanks to our coverage partner and features writer Jillian Rose for covering the event, writing the article and taking photos for this coverage. Many thanks as well to Alphard Penetrante of Snapshot Fantasy for sharing his photos of the event with us.
Thanks for dropping by, and do visit us again for more cosplay features here at arkadymac.com.
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