Back Story: Armenian Hospitality

The hospitality we experienced in Armenia was incredible. The night before we left the country, Meline (our subject) invited photographer Ted Wilcox and me (top row, far left) for dinner. Her mother cooked a traditional meal and, although she spoke only a few words in English, did her best to communicate with us when Meline was not in the room to translate. A few hours passed, and then we learned that Meline’s sister and brother-in-law had also invited us over.

There, Ted and I were waited on hand and foot, given a comfy seat on the couch and served a piece of delicious cake. Meline’s sister joyfully served us and made sure we were comfortable. Then Meline’s brother-in-law arrived and within moments we were all seated around the coffee table celebrating him because it was his birthday. Yes, we had been served and were eating his cake, before he even arrived! I was embarrassed, but Meline assured me it was fine; we were honored guests.

It was such a blessing that we were able to gather a story and photos while participating in the party with Meline’s family.