It was an outpouring of love for Sonia Tomlinson as friends and family from the United States and Canada joined loved ones here on The Rock to celebrate her birthday. The three-day affair themed “Fabulous at Any Age” began on Saturday, November 17 with an Appleton Estate rum tour, followed by a party at Pearly Beach on Sunday, culminating with a formal dinner at her residence on Monday evening. Were you in attendance at any of the events one thing would be clear: Sonia Tomlinson is deeply loved.

Tomlinson’s husband Lloyd and their three children Shauna, Shaun and Leana were de facto hosts, and it was lovely to watch this close-knit family work together. Respect, care and love flowed freely between them and during the taking of family photos familial pride radiated. The Tomlinson family exudes black excellence.

Style Observer (SO) was among the guests in attendance at Monday evening’s soirée. Dressed in a black Louise Graham sequinned mermaid gown, Tomlinson was ethereal as she swanned between the almost 100 guests, greeting and thanking them for attending. A large contingent of guests travelled to Jamaica specifically to celebrate Tomlinson’s birthday — an indica of the impact that she’s had on their lives. Even when she was not within earshot, guests were glad to speak about their treasured relationships with Tomlinson. It’s clear that she’s the sort of friend we should all have in our corner.

Against the backdrop of the Tomlinson family home, New Levels Décor created an environment that was fit for a televised awards ceremony. The red carpet above which hung a crystal chandelier, sleek step-and-repeat, gold Chiavari chairs, sparkling tablescape and a sky of lights worked together to create a ritzy event of which Tomlinson was the star. The meal was entrusted to culinary artist Oji Jaja, the visually stunning three-tiered birthday cake to Cake Couture and entertainment to Dwight Richards and Friends.

After dinner, Lloyd Tomlinson surprised his wife (and guests) by singing the Brian McKnight classic Back At One. The serenade was endearing and heartfelt. When most children would baulk at their parents showing affection or roll their eyes in an exasperated not-this-again gesture, Tomlinson’s children were focused on their father and proud of his public declaration of love for their mother. Daughter Shauna Skeene-Douglas delivered a toast in which she described her mother as a constant supporter, teacher, friend and prayer warrior. Family friend Hannah Linton-McKay, who flew from Florida for the event, spoke of her close friendship with Tomlinson who only needs a phone call before she’s on a plane to offer assistance in person.

There’s a cocoon of love surrounding Sonia Tomlinson. With each act, she positively touches the life of someone. She is graceful, caring and blessed. If schedules permitted, guests would opt for a month-long celebration of this remarkable woman who also happens to be very fabulous.