The Awesome, Non-Stripper Bachelorette.

It’s important to feel safe. Safe in the sense that when you come home, you can be yourself. Your partner will not judge you when you make mistakes or say something wrong. You know that no matter what, he or she will always be there.

There are a few occasions in life that are every bit as beautiful, rare, and shining as they are intended to be. Even as you’re living them, you know that these are going to be memories you revisit for years to come.

Last Saturday was Billy's Hen's Night and it was naughty with so much more.. Riight girls!

I just love the idea of Girls Night, any girls night. I received the invitation via email from Vivien (Billy's friend and have the cutest courtesy to explain this: "Hi, I dont think you know me but kawan kita Billy tu nak kahwin dah. So, we're throwing her a Hen's night") Without even considering, I replied, "Yeah, I'm in!"

The moment I rang the room 817's bell, I was welcomed by Vivien. Funny how easy the introduction goes, as if we've known each other. And it goes for the rest of the girls, half of which I dont know who but we clicked- immediately. Then, I saw Billy.. Milly, Billy, Silly.. She's glowing, coz she's happy and I can see she's excited. She's thrilled that her girls gathered together to celebrate her last singlehood.. We then spent hours in 817, giggling and chatting like little girls, running back and forth to the other room and laughing and 'awww'ing over Sex and the City. I realized at one point that I missed the company of girlfriends, the constant chatter and the ability to process things out loud, discovering the commonalities of life that you thought were only peculiar to your own situation. Being by nature quite solitary, I usually relish my quiet, largely internal life, but on this day it was blessedly different.

The party was harmless. At 1 corner, manicure pedicure is in session. On the bed, girls gathered around, watching 'Sex and the City, the Movie'. Other corner, people chowing down MeeHoon and some vodka jelly. Sometimes it’s awkward introducing yourself to a group of people who don’t know you, but after some initial stiffness, we relaxed into an easy banter that belied the short amount of time these people had known each other. No matter their age or life situation, soon all these fabulous ladies were soon laughing and talking, getting to know each other, with their only common bond being Billy's friend and the celebration of their nuptials.

Wine's everywhere, it was fun until the drama of changing rooms because of the ridiculous piping matter. We suspect its just some lame reason to shift us girls in a 'bugged' room. Too bad neither brought their electronic detector device (lol).

Although I must admit that throughout the night, I cant sit tight. I'm constantly stealing glances at the door and the mechanic who fixed our sliding door. I was expecting, badly, for a male stripper. Yes, I am traditional and I believe a male stripper is the most cliche' method of celebrating bachelor or bachelorette party, and yet everybody made an exception for this particular cliche'. Too bad, none showed up. Sigh..

Finally, I had 1-on-1 talk with Billy. We never really 'talk' before, maybe its the surfing pressure. No girlie session allowed. I found her sweet, caring, kind, and most of all- crazay in love with Hafiz. I asked her, "Can you imagine yourself being with anyone else than Hafiz?" "No. (shake her head, so many times)" Simple and very honest.
"He is the sweetest and most caring guy I've ever met and he is for me. I cant wish for anyone better. Nadia, (while touching my hand and looking straight into my eyes) he's perfect. He's perfect for me. I love him". No elaboration needed.

This is just one of the countless touching moments I have caught in Billy's Hen party. Brides-to-be have such a terrific time with their girlfriends. Some are moved to tears to see their girlfriends surfacing on this special occasion. Others seemed to get closer because of the magic in the air. It is simply a celebration of love, being and sealing the love.

For Billy and Hafiz, all we need to know is that these two people have already become comfortable with one another. And that they're excited to be in each other's company. And that tells me that they have the foundation for a wonderful marriage: not just lovers, but lifelong friends as well. Years from now, may you look back, as the day you loved each other the least.

Love is what makes the ride worthwhile. And it's a wonderful thing when two people who were made for each other manage to fall in love. So I'd like to make a toast. And I'd like to make it with this thought in mind: May your love be like the wind, strong enough to move the clouds, soft enough to never hurt. So this is to you, Mariam and Hafiz, and a wonderful life together. Ladies and Gentlemen, to friends, lovers and soul mates. Congratulation..