Servants dined with the upper crust February 3 as the ladies of Aqua Isles marked the end of the fabulously popular PBS series Downton Abbey. Silver tea services, aristocratic hats and sparkling crystal set the stage for the elegant luncheon, replicating the lives of early 20th Century British elite and their “lower class” servants. Last year the ladies of Aqua Isles decided on Downton Abbey as the theme for their 2016 annual luncheon and the ladies pulled out all the stops for this glitzy affair. Ladies organized themselves into groups to decorate their own tables, resulting in some very sumptuous table settings that could easily be accepted in a place like Downton Abbey.

The Aqua Isles Chorus contributed to the early 20th Century theme as did a line dance Charleston performed by the park ladies. Cracker Cooking and Catering took on the role of “kitchen servants” and served a marvelous luncheon fit for royalty.

Downton Abby themed prizes were awarded for the three best upstairs costumes and the three best downstairs (servants) costumes. James and Beacy Boyle even brought their 1930 Model A Ford, that has been in their family for about 35 years, and made it available for diners to inspect.

After their glittering Downton Abbey triumph, the ladies of Aqua Isles are already working on next year’s luncheon theme: A Little Bit of Italy.

The Servants’ Table won first place in the table decorating contest. (Patty Brant/Caloosa Belle)[/caption]