We usually find ourselves planning and designing large events for hundreds, but the same principles that we apply to grand affairs – finding the surprise, delight, and innovation in every aspect of the party also apply to smaller functions. Case in point, we recently produced an intimate baby shower for the actress Ali Larter in Los Angeles with a guest count of 35. The party was held at a close friend’s home and had an altruistic bent to it. Target made a very generous donation in honor of Ali to Project Peanut Butter, an organization that helps malnourished children in Africa as well as donating strollers, diapers and pieces from their upcoming Petit Trésor collection that benefits Baby Buggy’s mission to support families in need.
This was not a pink and blue day as showers often are. Rather, sunny yellows, deep chocolate browns, elephants, and natural, rustic materials referenced Ali’s love for world fusion and the colors of her newly decorated nursery.
A sweet pennant marks the front gate to let the guests know they have come to the right place. (above)
Instead of standard envelopes hosting the seating assignments, our escort card table becomes the first clue that EVERYTHING is special on this day. Laser cut elephants marching on a brown sand terrain host the guests’ names on the front while their table assignments are written on the backside. (above)
At the end of cocktails, African drummers arrived at the pool to surprise and lead a parade of guests down to the lower lawn for lunch. One long table greeted the guests and the drummers joined four other musicians to provide the perfect festive background for the rest of the afternoon. A beautiful display table was set to show off the Petit Trésor collection that benefits Baby Buggy and to house gifts. The guests were each asked to bring a book meaningful to them, building Baby Mac’s future library. Special book plates were provided and Ali’s friends marked the occasion with warm and loving messages that will carry over to the time when the little guy reads.
Running from one end of the dining table to the other, we arranged a sunny, multi-leveled still-life of yellow, brown and white blooms in an array of bottles (all from our collection with west elm), complimented by other vases from around the world. And at each place setting, a gorgeous, wooden elephant held a place card on its back. (below)
It was a gorgeous day that started out rocky. While it hardly ever rains in Los Angeles thereby not requiring a “rain plan” for an outdoor party, it did begin raining during our set-up. With a scramble and a prayer, the sun popped up in the sky as the first guests walked in the door. PHEW! Ali is so lovely, we wanted it to be PERFECT for her. And it was.
Ali: Wishing you, your husband, and baby Mac all our love and best wishes.
xo
D.
Superb pix...... Winter party can be more enjoyable with a fire pit and some wine in a garden or anywhere outdoor.
Posted by: robert macklyn | January 13, 2011 at 11:25 PM