“What do you get the person that already has everything?” This was the question Isla grappled with as her mother Gemma’s 60th birthday approached. After much contemplation, Isla had a brilliant idea – a family get-together! But not just any get-together; she wanted to treat her mum to a long weekend away with the entire family.
Months of meticulous planning went into this surprise trip, overcoming the challenge of finding a date and location that suited all 30 guests. Once everything was agreed upon, it was all systems go!
Isla chose a luxury caravan site with a plethora of activities to keep guests of all ages occupied for the three-day celebration. The group assembled on Friday night, with some travelling from further afield to be part of the festivities.
The surprise was a dream come true for Gemma, who rarely has the opportunity to spend time with the whole family due to everyone’s busy schedules and far-flung residences. The weekend was filled with joy and family bonding, featuring activities such as archery, mini golf, indoor swimming, and long outdoor walks.
As the climax to this blissful trip, Isla had one more surprise in store. On the third and final night, she arranged for Hog Roast Portmeirion to treat the group to a first-class meal: a divine hog roast with all the trimmings.
Hog Roast Portmeirion’s dedicated catering manager, Terry, spent the entire afternoon preparing a free-range hog that resulted in golden-brown crackling and glistening pulled pork, which was served on wholemeal rolls with sage and onion stuffing and our famous applesauce. For those not keen on pork, or meat in general, grilled veggie and halloumi skewers were served. These delightful kebabs were bursting with flavour and chargrilled to perfection, accompanied by a punchy sweet chilli sauce and tzatziki dip.
The feast continued with coleslaw, a seasonal mixed salad, and freshly made sweet potato and regular fries, creating a laid-back banquet that brought the group together on their last night.
Gemma couldn’t have envisioned a better birthday gift, and the delightful surprises, thoughtful planning, and delicious meal from Hog Roast Portmeirion made this family getaway an unforgettable celebration.