Monday, August 9, 2010

A Cool Garden Party

While most people were relaxing inside enjoying the quite hum of their air conditioners last Saturday, we were hosting 50 fabulous party goers in the garden of a private residence in Old Town Alexandria.  They were there to hear Beth Lilienstein, a soprano and also a member of the Washington National Opera, (accompanied by Patricia Palombo on the piano) perform a Recital of Lieder.

The newly renovated garden was fully covered by a massive tent provided by Sugarplum Tents.  The shade from the tent along with the fans that Sugarplum installed help to keep temperature down quite a bit even during the prime time of the day.  
Guests were able to cool down by ordering drinks at the outside bar that provided everything from water to the specialty drink of the evening, Pimm’s Cup.  We placed a few cocktail tables throughout the garden so that guests could mix and mingle while enjoying the beauty of the space.   The green linen we chose really blended in with the natural setting of the garden.
During the hour long performance, guests were able to lounge in brown chivari chairs under the tent.  The chairs also worked beautifully with the natural colors of the environment.  

After the performance was over, guests eagerly moved into the cool air of the historic home (built in the 1700’s), where they enjoyed cold beverages and a delicious appetizer bar provided by Geppetto’s Catering.  Some of the fun finger foods were curry chicken on toast points (my favorite!!), cucumbers topped with crabcakes, and potato pancakes with sliced tenderloin.

Thank you to Boyd’s Piano, where we rented the piano for the evening.  They delivered it on time and perfectly in tune.  Such a wonderful evening was had by all! 

Christine

Ice Blue, Black and Silver Inspiration

Photo credits: Place setting (The Knot), ring (Brides.com), chandeliers (The Knot), bridesmaid dress (Brides.com), groom (Brides.com), couple on dance floor (Style Me Pretty, Cake (Martha Stewart Weddings), wedding gown (In Style Weddings), favors (Martha Stewart Weddings), shoes, water bottles (The Knot), earrings (The Perfect Palette), invitation (Elizabeth Anne Designs)

Okay, truth time.  This inspiration board was inspired by the colors I'm using to redo my bathroom.  Not very glamorous, I know, but there you have it! I love the combination of pale blue, black and silver and have always loved it for weddings. It works in summer or winter and looks both sophisticated and fresh.  For those who know a little about Alison, they know that this shade of blue (some might refer to it as "Carolina blue") is near and dear to her heart.  Anyone fans of this color combo (or any Carolina fans) out there?
Laura and Alison

The Bubbly Bride Winners!

Congratulations to 5 lucky readers who have won copies of "The Bubbly Bride" by Natalie Bovis-Nelson:
Erika Pitera
Jennifer Thomas
Elizabeth Cabell
Catherine Jolly
Kristen Juchem

Shoot us an email (weddings@engagingaffairs.com) with your snail mail address and we will zip them out to you.  Cheers!