You might remember us talking excitedly about a big surprise birthday bash for a family we adore and have worked with over several years. This party was a surprise 50th birthday soirée for the matriarch of the family and we were thrilled to come on board. In just under three months we created a rockin' bash that even included some surprises for the family.
We brought on the most creative A-team spanning the country and the result was a rockin' mod chic bash!
Challenge: we knew that our client wanted the Fairmont Olympic Hotel in Seattle {the Grande Dame} to be the location for this special celebration. From the floral down to the band, the stationery, and the fun surprise details {like a life-sized Frank Sinatra in the photo booth}, we took what we know and love about the birthday girl and ran with it.
Her husband and daughters put together some sweet inspiration boards, photos, and other stealth, top-secret items and we worked to create a breathtaking party that was the epitome of celebration - it was great!
She loves to "borrow" menus from restaurants all over so we displayed them for guests to peek at in the lounge, along with family photos, vintage dresses, and sentimental pieces her daughters borrowed for us.
We knew that our floral needed a mod, yet elegant tone to mimic the grand Spanish Ballroom so we created cake-shaped pillows of cranberry mums atop clear glass square vases. Inside we submerged blush orchids, berry-toned leaves, and tall ornamental grasses.
To tie in our mod feeling we brought in over sized {we mean huge!} lava lamps and a funky lounge area illuminated in pinks.
We must say that it looked pretty cool in such a historic room!
We created the most fun and sentimental curiosities table featuring photos, records, and all sorts of keepsakes for guests to gawk at. It was adorable!
Naturally, the menu reflected the best of the best in Northwest seafood. We are quite spoiled to have grown up with some of the freshest food in the world! {We often miss it! and love to indulge when we're back!}
Being big Seahawks fans, the awesome AV team brought in a tv so we could watch the Playoffs game against the New Orleans Saints while we set up. We won! Thought it was short-lived, it was incredible! Also, the guest of honor and her husband were at the game, so we were all watching and counting down when they'd be making their grand entrance.
As they got closer, the guest of honor still had absolutely no clue. Steve kept texting their daughters telling them where they were {and his wife thinking he was texting about the game!}. They opened the doors to the ballroom and that was such an unforgettable moment. Total and utter surprise! She was blown away and couldn't believe that we were flown up from Southern California and planned it!
From there the night progressed into great fun....
If you're ever in the Seattle area, you must eat at the Herbfarm. It's known for being the best in a true culinary experience with five-star gourmet food and the best dining atmosphere around. Their in-house guitarist Patricio is a little secret {though not for long!} - we've worked with him many times on our most discerning clients' events as he continually brings amazing ambiance with his tunes - from flamenco to classical to the Beatles, he plays it all and is incredible. This was Aleah's favorite piece; a sunny, cheerful pillow of yellow blooms marking the family table.
Guests showed up in an array of 60s clothing. We specified "Mod Chic" on the invitations and saw Beatniks, Mad Men-themed attire, go-go boots, and everything in between!
We had a face painter on hand for the kids, but it turned into an adult activity. Such a great idea for events with more than a few children. Not only is it creative, but it makes for smashing photos!
Our go-to band for Seattle awesomeness {yes, awesomeness} is Chris Friel Orchestra, or CFO. These guys are just the nicest and they bring it each and every event. Having played with some of the biggest names in rock, they play all sorts of music and get everyone moving. They gave Nick a special shout-out song and played The Weight by The Band. Man, are they incredible. Every guest was up dancing!
There you have it! Thank you again to our wonderful clients for entrusting this special event with us. We love working with you all and can't wait for the next bash!
Lighting: Swank
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