We were thrilled to be invited to participate in a wonderful event a few weeks ago. Blue Plate Catering {one of my favorite special event caterers here in Chicago!} invited a collection of the most influential wedding and event consultants to an evening of culinary inspirations, stunning decor {all provided by Botanicals!}, lively entertainment {compliments of the amazing Ken Arlen Orchestra!} in the wonderful setting of the Ivy Room.
My partner in crime, Jesse Deckard, took care of pulling nearly all of the details together while I was crazy busy fine-tuning Caroline’s wedding details {only two days later!}. Because we designed the event, Blue Plate graciously invited us to enjoy the evening along with all of our favorite planner friends. The night was incredible, one to remember!
The weather was spectacular, allowing us to cocktail in the charming courtyard. Simple crisp white pintuck linens dressed the tables. High boys were cinched with fresh moss cuffs, and each of the tabletops were accented with a white lacquered urn hosting a solid sphere of mosses. {See image below}
When guests were invited to dinner, we unveiled a room dressed in peacock hues. We framed each of the windows overlooking the courtyard with blue and teal toned taffeta curtains, each accented with a crystal chandelier. The 9 dinner tables were each highlighted by an oversized sphere of solid peacock feathers, hung with precision just feet above the center of each table. {see image below}
Centerpieces were kept low, balancing out the drama occurring overhead. Generously sized white lacquered boxes hosted copious amounts of fresh green viburnum and plum hued sweetpea. Our custom tables were used in place of rented dinner tables. The white square tables were inlaid with a true platinum leaf finish, reflecting the abundance of candlelight. {See image below}
Chic lucite ghost chairs allowed the decor to be on show. {See image below}
A contemporary and comfy lounge setting was positioned in front of each window. Our pintuck covered couches were adorned with teal and blue throw pillows, hedges of purple iris enhanced the cocktail tables along with inset peacock feathers and a cozy circular rug lent a rest from all of the geometric lines of the room. Custom end tables provided yet an additional spot to place one’s {17th!} cocktail. {see images below}
Our white tufted semi-circular bar became a focal with a larger peacock feather orb suspended overhead. Peacock feather projections added a textured movement around the room. {See image below}
This was certainly one of the most fun industry nights to date! Special thanks to Matt from Sound Investments for providing the stunning lighting for the event, to Donna at the Ivy Room for her gracious hospitality, The Blue Plate Gang for pulling everything together, Ken Arlen and his wonderful full orchestra, Elizabeth Grace for her perfect printables and to all of the consultants that made the evening such a blast!
{photo credits: all images shot by erica barraca}