Here’s an experiment on our showroom floor.

Admittedly, not the best picture we’ve ever had on our blog.

But the point can still be made. Here we have a 60” table draped with a 120” (floor length) Khaki linen. There is a Light Olive square overlay on top of that and then a 54X54 Iridescent Crush overlay on top of that.
Notice the napkins. Why only have one when two is prettier? We have a Light Olive napkin folded lengthwise and tucked between the dinner and salad plate. Then, for extra fluff, the second Beige napkin is gathered and tied with a shimmery gold ribbon.

Here’s a close up of the center of the table. The things to note here are: 1. It doesn’t really matter WHAT you put in the middle of the table. All that matters is that it’s there and that it’s pretty and that it has some reflective quality to it. Mercury glass is perfect for this. Silver and glass are perfect for this. Those glass pebbles that you can get at the Dollar store for $1 per 500 are perfect for this. Which brings us to Number 2. It doesn’t need to be expensive. In fact, one of my favorite things about this table is that is a nicely mismatched arrangement of finer quality items and Dollar store things. The adorable little mounds of moss? $1 for a whole bag of them. The galvinized tin buckets? $5 on average. The tasteful silk flowers? Significantly more. All working like a team to create an appealing table that requires more attention to the details.

So next time you’re entertaining, set your table with MORE. Shop your house for darling things you already have and layer, layer, layer!

Happy Planning!

This table was, I think, our favorite. The Blue and White Gingham matched up with Hot Pink was such a surprise for a scheme…Alisa had it up her sleeve and knew exactly what she wanted. In the end, it was perfect and absolutely feminine and flirty and would make for an adorable Bridesmaid’s luncheon or shower. We couldn’t stop ourselves from adding layer upon layer of beading to the middle of the table and I think it was darling for an outside arrangement.

Who would have matched Gold accents up with this? Not I! I learned a lot from Mrs. Alisa this day.

Amy so gorgeously captured all of the many elements of this table. I can only imagine how fun this party would be!

This shot is one of our favorites. The entryway at Le Pavillon is stunning and even with its classical formality, I think this tablescape shows how funky and colorful you can play up the venue. And we absolutely love this look. Bright chair sashes crossing a crisp white linen…perfect for a birthday party or a tropical themed event.

Alisa added the Gerbers and these adorable little paper cups of grass.

The last shot is a simple and pretty bistro table draped in Maize and cinched with a Coral sash. Bright florals and some small tea lights make the sweetest centerpiece. We love the way a cinched bistro looks and this one is particularly lovely in the courtyard at Le Pav.

We love helping make spaces beautiful and we just can’t say enough about working with Amy Hutchinson, Alisa, and Le Pavillon. We hope you will keep us all in mind next time you need to create or capture the beauty for your event!

I mean, how bright and gorgeous can you possibly get? We shot these images on a gray, January afternoon but look how this Hot Orange Circle Taffeta and the colorful wild flowers set this little corner of Le Pav ablaze. Wouldn’t you love to sit down to this table for a warm, celebratory meal?

Paper butterflies and bare branches add dimension and whimsy to the setting. The variation of fabrics (poly, taffeta, and organza) create a lush feel, while the wooden candlesticks and striped tapers carry enough enchantment to keep the tables from being too fussy or formal.

Blueberry Krinkle linens add a rich hue to the room while a singular crystal candelabra uses height and sparkle to dress things up. Muted white flowers and our platinum china further the elegance.

A simple change up of colorful flowers and pink candles transition the Blueberry Krinkle tables into something more airy and fun. Alisa creates more easy whimsy with punches of pink and bright Gerbers.

I think we’ve saved the best for last! Come back again tomorrow for our final post on the photo shoot and in the meantime, visit Amy Hutchinson, Club Windward, and Le Pavillon online at their websites. Inspiration abounds!

You know how every now and then, the stars collide and everything works out just perfectly? You want to throw a party and the date is available for all your guests, the menu is perfect, the weather is stunning, and the atmosphere takes on its own magical note? That’s how it felt when we began thinking over a photo shoot a couple of weeks ago. We wanted to showcase our inventory and we wanted it to look…perfect. So we called up our friend Alisa at Club Windward, picked her brain and borrowed her expertise at tablescaping. She, in turn, contacted local photog genius Amy Hutchinson. One phone call to Le Pavillon and we had ourselves a date, time, venue, camera, and designer.

Alisa brought in boxes of inspiration…in the form of flowers, tiny birds, bright ornaments, mercury glass, and butterflies. In a record time we had set up nine tables for the shoot, utilizing all parts of Le Pav’s gorgeous building…rooms, foyer, and courtyard. The natural lighting and classical elements of the space were perfect for creating the scenes we wanted. We could do elegant, candle lit tables in one room and funkier, more modern versions outside or in the foyer. The versatility of the venue was fun to discover as we layered the tables with everything from burlap to beads and it all worked!

Then came Amy with her camera. She captured all the details perfectly and in that sharp, clean (but fuzzy in the right areas), vibrantly colored way that a really wonderful, professional photographer knows how to achieve. She made our tables light up with all of the energy and expectancy you find in the reception hall thirty minutes before the bride and groom walk in. As we stood there and watched her shoot, we felt just as excited as if something real was about to happen here at Le Pav…a bridal luncheon, birthday party, or wedding. And we’re hoping the images inspire you as much as they inspired us to create.

For the next few days, we’ll continue posting images from the shoot and we can’t wait to show them all off! A big heartfelt thanks to Amy Hutchinson, Club Windward, and Le Pavillon! We were thrilled to partner with you and so very happy with the results!

I mean really…how much prettier and sunnier could you get? We are kind of amazed at this Tangerine Tango trend. It’s everywhere! We just had to share some more pics with you.

Think Coral and Orange used together to create the look of Tangerine.

And now one final example of the succulent floral trend we discussed in the “2012 Wedding Trends (explained)” post. Aren’t these colors just stunning together?

Ok! Back to the gloomy Thursday…think Spring!

We woke up feeling sunny this morning. And this color combination just seems to spell out Sunny…

Orange Ranunculus look tousled and cheerful and create a stunningly bright arrangement for your centerpiece.

A milder version of the same. Pale aqua against crisp white allows the accents of tangerine to pop unexpectedly…but not too rudely.

Deep turquoise mingles with orange with create a bold, gilded look.

Just some spring like inspiration for your Tuesday in January…
Happy Coordinating!

It’s a New Year and the trends are changing. What was supposed to be (at least Mayan-wise) a downright apocalyptic year is actually full of promise. Or at least escapism. We will elect a president, maybe the economy will keep on the up and up, and our dreams of nuptial bliss will reflect a society that is blurring itself into the fantastic, the glamorous, and maybe even the dangerous. In other words, to get a good glimpse of the 2012 bride, check the New York Times Bestseller list, the best rated TV drama, and who’s getting Oscar buzz. Think vampires, royalty (both fictional and otherwise), and competitions of stealth.

1. Vintage Glam/Vintage Modesty – When Pippa sauntered out of that black limo last Spring, we all gasped with awe. This was a truly classic white gown on a gorgeous lithe figure we had not previously acquainted ourselves with. ‘My Week with Marilyn’ reminded us that that very same class has never really gone out of style. Who doesn’t want to be a bombshell…especially on their wedding day? But in the same vein, classic modesty came back hand in hand with the classic glam. Kate herself wore long lace sleeves and a perfectly sweet neckline. Even Bella covered up (as long as she didn’t turn around) in white satin for her ill-advised vampire ceremony.
We’ll see a remake of The Great Gatsby this year so we can only imagine that such timeless style will stick around for 2012/2013 brides. We would assume that this kind of vintage fashion will translate into big, dramatic receptions. Maybe we’re seeing the last of chalk board signs and mason jars in a barn setting? Only time will tell!

2. Jewels – The simple may be on its way out with the Recession. 2012 brides are expected to bedazzle everything. Think studded headbands, bouquets dripping with crystals, etc. Silver and Gold will be paired with any and everything for the Bride who wants a traditional yet edgy look.

3. Food Stations – Maybe it’s the food truck phenomenon. After all, society is all about showing some love to small business and especially those on wheels that cater to our every taco craving. The translation to Wedding Reception? Mini food stations. Coffee bar here. Milk and Cookie bar there. Travel around the reception hall to nibble on your favorite, varied flavors. It’s also just cute.

4. Custom, custom, custom – Mix a genuine, Southern affinity for the Monogram and a very real hipster mentality that makes it crucial to have a wedding unlike any other…and you’ve got the fascination with customization! You put your initials in lights, on the aisle runner, and on the personalized, mixed cd you’re sending with the invites. Couples are even creating “When Harry Met Sally” type wedding films so that their guests can know every little unique detail of their falling in love.

5. Gothic Dresses – We’ve definitely been dabbling in the realm of the fairy tale this year. With prime time dramas throwing us into the dark, modern worlds of Snow White, Cinderella, and the Brothers Grimm, we seem to be favoring the original, Gothic children’s tales over the brighter, Disney versions. Vera Wang shocked the couture runways last October by presenting her wicked new line of wedding gowns. Her Twitter account described Vera’s inspiration: “Witchcraft! Light, airy, concoctions of froth. … Mysterious and sexy, frivolous and fun.” Every dress is pitch black. We wonder how far this trend will reach but anticipate at least some hints of Gothic style in wedding designs, whether or not the bride is brash enough to go all black.

6. Hunger Games-esque Bachelor Parties – If you’ve heard anything about Suzanne Collins’ Trilogy, ‘The Hunger Games’, you know it’s grim stuff. The Young Adult Lit has been on the New York Times Bestseller list for over 60 weeks running and its film release is due out in March. It seems like the post-apocolyptic tale of survival is even striking a chord among husbands-to-be. Don’t fret…groomsmen aren’t expected to battle it out to the death in snowy arenas. But 2012 is going to the be the year of strength and skill training. Instead of glitzy retreats to Las Vegas or even shady trips to bars around town, it looks like more grooms are wanting to challenge their best pals in actual hunting trips, extreme sports, and even race car driving.

7. Neutral or Bold – 2012 style swatches are showing us either palettes of complete neutrals or shockingly bold pop. Use blush, peach, and taupe or jade, cherry, and tangerine. Bridesmaids are being mismatched in their own, bright attire and fresh cut flower alternatives such a big paper flowers or succulent plants are adding a more sustainable approach.

8. Sapphire – It’s most definitely Kate-inspired but it’s also solving the problem of the “conflict diamond”. Guys and gals are picking out sapphire rings over diamonds and the deep shade of blue may be popping up in more conspicuous wedding details as well.

9. Backyard weddings – Why spend the money on a venue when home will do the trick? It could be for the budget conscientious or maybe just because of the charm, but creating the perfect nuptial setting in one’s own family home is making a comeback. All you need to do is rent the tables, linens, and chairs!

10. September and October – We’ve always known that October was a fashionable month here in Memphis for a wedding (not too hot!), but this year, it looks like the trend has risen nationally. September and October are THE matrimonial months of 2012. So start booking now, ladies!

I love New Year’s Eve celebrations. After the hustle and bustle of Christmas, New Year’s Eve comes as one last shot of festivity and glamour and excitement…the perfect loud and glittery kick off to a new calendar year and a fresh slate. Whether you use the evening to shoot bottle rockets and take in the last indulgences of junk food and bubbly for 2011 or you plan a sophisticated gathering to eat fine and ring in the New Year elegantly, here are some great ways to think ‘Decor’. After all, this is your last opportunity of the year to host a gorgeous party.

Simple but stunning. Set black linen with napkins and platinum rimmed plates. Line the table with strands of “diamonds” and use small parfait dishes to hold black and silver ornaments at each place setting. Use white or silver glass balls for the centerpiece and you’ve got a great reuse of Christmas ornaments and a classic New Year’s tablescape. Tying the napkins with white ribbon attached to black helium balloons is the perfect New Year’s Eve touch.

An easy and charming centerpiece idea for the party that counts down the minutes! Gather clocks of all shapes and sizes, bookshelf with tall silver or gold candle stick holders and you’ve created an adorable time piece vignette.

Who says New Year’s Eve has to be black and white or glittery gold? This vibrant tablescape makes for an exotic take on the occasion. Use bright Turquoise linen paired with Lime and Turquoise Christmas ornaments to create something unexpected and very festive, indeed.

Black, Gold, and Royal Blue make for a luxurious color scheme. Use a Black Satin Striped linen on the table and Gold and Royal Blue napkins beneath the plates and flatware. Over Sized martini glasses are perfect for filling with party favors and gold wrapped candies.

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Another simple but adorable idea. Tape pearlized Gold, Light Pink, and Ivory balloons to the wall behind the champagne table. Blow up at differing widths to create your own ascending bubbles.

Charcoal, Black, and accents of Silver make for another pretty color scheme. Use silver trays to display party favors, snacks, and props for a photo booth. Rows of silver ornaments and tea lights create a structured but icy look. Don’t forget champagne flutes of glass…definitely better for sipping your way into 2012!

Rental Shopping List at Party Connection:

Picture Inspiration #1: Black & White Sparkle
a. Table Cloth in Black Poly ($6.50 to $13.50, depending on size)
b. Bone China with Platinum Band place settings ($0.34 per piece)
c. Needlepoint flatware ($0.34 per piece)
d. Cut Glass Parfait Cups ($0.40 per piece)
e. Champagne Flutes ($0.40 per piece)
f. Black Napkins ($0.44 per piece)
g. Black Balloons with white or silver ribbon ($1.20 each)

Picture Inspiration #3: Peacock Feathers
a. Table Cloth in Turquoise Poly ($6.50 to $13.50, depending on size)
b. Turquoise and Lime Napkins ($0.34 per piece)
c. White Square place settings ($0.34 per piece)
d. 10.75 oz. Tear Drop Wine Glasses ($0.34 per piece)

Picture Inspiration #4: Royal Blue and Black
a. Table Cloth in Black Satin Striped ($8.50 to $15.50, depending on size)
b. Blue and Gold Napkins ($0.44 per piece)
c. Over Sized Martini Glasses ($3.00 per piece)

Picture Inspiration #6: Charcoal, Black, & Silver
a. Table Cloth in Charcoal Poly ($8.50 to $15.50, depending on size)
b. Champagne Flutes ($.40 per piece)
c. Silver Trays ($17 per piece, various sizes)

Aqua and White

White drapery billows against Aqua lighting. White and Powder Blue linen works softly against the Brighter Aqua creating a very “icy” reception.

A pale color spectrum shows the evolution of Winter White to a warmer Rose. All are perfect shades for creating a soft Winter wedding palette without Spring Pastels.

Pale Rose, White, and Deep Purple become a gorgeous Winter combination when surrounded by the glint of Gold. The arrangement is elegant and warm…perfect for the Winter Event that doesn’t want to hint at Reds, Greens, and Blues.

Pure White against the deep woods of chivari chairs and a bare table offers a magical, snowy feel. Perfectly bridal and anything but plain, a pure white scheme can become a beautiful solution to creating a wedding that doesn’t feel too “Christmasy”.

Creamy florals, Golden chairs, and the natural element of sticks creates a surprisingly formal feel for a Winter Wedding. The look is timeless…a classic scheme that will never be challenged by trends in color.

The possibilities are endless for designing a Winter event that is seasonal without being defined by the Holidays. As always, take your cues from the natural landscape and let your imagination wander.

Happy Planning!

~ Casey Sigler

Both natural and soft, Light Olive and Silver is a beautiful combination for a comfortable twist on tradition. This look could go formal or casual and may even be the perfect theme for a New Year’s celebration or a January reception.

For a jolt of Holiday hue, use bright blue or softer periwinkle with stark white. Bring in slate or charcoal to vary the shades.

Reds and Lime…a lighter, funkier take on tradition. And bright lime green ornaments will pop against your evergreen tree!

Something very different! Think cameos and old fashioned Greeting Cards.
Cool and Bright…Turquoise and Aqua make a fun and cheery look. You can easily add a pop of red if you just can’t do away with tradition altogether.