Category: Inspiration

It was only fitting that Chicago-based company, Peak6, brought in a country music legend for their Wild West-themed holiday party. Nearly 700 employees had no idea they were about to experience a private, two-hour Keith Urban concert. 15 stunt men were hired to stage a “bar brawl” before the big reveal — only to be broken up by the company’s CEO who then introduced the crowd to their guest star. One lucky attendee even got to join Keith on stage for a song. 

photographer: Sheri Whitko Photography | planner: Paulette Wolf Events | production: KISHBAUGH + PARTNERS | décor: Kehoe Designs | venue: The Geraghty | caterer: Paramount Events | videographer: Indirap Productions 

Talk about a “pinch me” moment. This celebration’s guest of honor, Sophia, was shocked to see the one and only, Nick Jonas, take over her own Bat Mitzvah party.  He performed his four hit solo songs including “Levels,” “Chains,” and “Jealous” — and even brought out a guitar to treat guests to a slower ballad. The best part? He wasn’t the only celebrity there… 

photographer: LuvRox Photography | planner: Sara Renee Events | décor: Always Flowers & Events | venue: The Breakers Palm Beach | entertainment: Rock With U | invitations: Papery & Cakery | videography: Ruben Senderey

Former Glee star, Darren Criss, and his now-wife, Mia Sweier, pulled off the ultimate surprise at their New Orleans wedding. The musical duo took the reception stage to perform a “first song” together in lieu of a traditional first dance — and we’re all for it. Not only did they wow with their Ballroom Blitz rendition, but Criss even performed the couple’s own ceremony music as his bride walked down the aisle. What’s not a surprise is that their celebration made our Favorite Celebrity Weddings of 2019.

photographer: katie edwards photography | planner: Kristin Banta Events | venue: New Orleans Museum of Art | rentals: Archive Rentals

The answer is this Malibu wedding. The bride and groom hosted a star-studded guest list including P. Diddy, Ryan Seacrest, and more to an ocean-front ceremony, seated dinner, and lavish after-party at their stunning estate. As if the poolside reception lined with 1,000 glowing candles, the dreamiest décor, and a Wolfgang Puck catered meal wasn’t enough, the A-list group was treated to a surprise performance by Christina Aguilera post-dinner. But wait, there’s more. A jungle-inspired nightclub with beats from songwriter and producer, DJ Khaled, served as the ultimate wedding after-party to top off the night (read more about hosting your own perfect after-party here).

photo courtesy of Colin Cowie Lifestyle | planner & design: Colin Cowie Lifestyle | catering: Wolfgang Puck Catering – Los Angeles

With champagne chandeliers, drones, casino tables, and more, this corporate event would make James Bond proud. The party’s crowd of 600 enjoyed on-theme photo ops, acrobats, and curated cocktails, before unexpectedly finding themselves in front of Maroon 5 — and the band’s famous lead singer, Adam Leivine. After dancing to Moves Like Jagger, we speculate that Sunday Morning was a rough one for these enthused guests. 

photographer: Sheri Whitko Photography | planner: Paulette Wolf Events | décor: Kehoe Designs | venue: Redmoon Theater | entertainment: Creative Artist Agency | Technical Production:  KISHBAUGH + PARTNERS | sound: Sound Investment AV | caterer: J&L Catering | transportation: V.I.P. Valet Service Inc. | security: Global Security

Remember the Bat Mitzvah Nick Jonas attended? Well, guest of honor Sophia is luckier than you may have thought. The celebration’s red carpet was rolled out for DJ Khalid — and her girl squad, who enjoyed a pre-party performance from the music mogul. The producer turned social media star fittingly posed for pictures in front of a marquee sign entrance that honored the Bat Mitzvah girl, before taking the stage. 

photographer: LuvRox Photography | planner: Sara Renee Events | décor: Always Flowers & Events | venue: The Breakers Palm Beach | entertainment: Rock With U | invitations: Papery & Cakery | videography: Ruben Senderey

Nascar and alternative rock go together like companies and holiday parties — which is why this corporate celebration left guests swooning. The racing-themed event featured branded elements including classic checkered flags, oversized car tires, and race track-inspired activities. The most memorable part? Quinn XCII and Imagine Dragons put on remarkable performances for the hundreds of employees in attendance. 

photographer: Sheri Whitko Photography | planner: Paulette Wolf Events | venue: WCF Events

The brand Off White has taken pop culture by storm, with founder Virgil Abloh becoming one of the hottest designers in the fashion industry — he even designed Hailey Bieber’s wedding dress. So it comes as no surprise that we’re seeing more and more “Off White” inspired Bar and Bat Mitzvahs. With on-theme décor, signage, catering, and party favors, the only thing that could have made this party any trendier was a celebrity appearance: enter, Blueface. The American rapper joined the Bar Mitzvah boy on stage for a surprise performance, and it’s safe to say every party goer was thrilled to see his face. 

photographer: LuvRox Photography | planner: Carrie Zack Events | décor: Bambini Soiree | venue: Miami Beach Edition | entertainment: Rock With U

When MillerCoors hosts its Distributor Conference in Las Vegas, you know it’s going to be epic. But what attendees may not have known was that the company planned an incredible concert to round out the weekend. A custom deck and stage were built over Caesar Palace’s most expansive outdoor pool, with mood-setting lighting, strobe lights, and branded signage. The man who took the stage was none other than rock icon Lenny Kravitz — if the Coors didn’t have guests buzzing, he certainly did.

photographer: Eric Guideng | planner: Gravel Experiential | venue: Caesars Palace | lighting: 4wall Lighting | sound: Sound Image | rentals: CORT

This invite-only event is what pop star dreams are made of. Hilton and Live Nation came together to create the perfect party experience for their valued guests. A rainbow entrance led way to a completely Ke$ha-ed out event… The “Party Don’t Start Til I Walk In” photo wall is where you would find us. 3D projection mapping allowed the stage’s backdrop to change with the tempo of her tunes as she performed hits that ranged from 2010 to 2017. 

photo courtesy of THE TEMPLE HOUSE | production: Live Nation Special Events | venue: THE TEMPLE HOUSE | projection mapping: United Projection

We can’t tell who had more fun, private concert attendees or Flo Rida himself — and the best part is guests had no clue he was coming. The Palm Beach after-party started with snacks, drinks, and decadent desserts — we’re talking handmade milkshakes adorned with king candy bars, and warm cookies paired with shots of milk. Yum. Guests indulged and mingled before being “interrupted” by the famous hip-hop artist for an hour-and-a-half performance. 

photographer: Jonathan Connolly Photography | planner: YSD Events | décor: The Special Event Resource and Design Group | venue: The Breakers Palm Beach | entertainment: AEG Live | lighting: JM Event Group | photo booth: The South Beach Photo Booth Co.

Talk about an on-brand experience, this multi-day corporate conference took place at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. On day 2, attendees enjoyed live music, before the band paused to announce a surprise guest — rock star Mark McGrath. The lead singer of Sugar Ray had guests roaring as he sang hits such as “Fly” and “Someday.”

photo courtesy of EastCoast Entertainment | planner: Amazae Events | venue: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame | entertainment: EastCoast Entertainment

Warner Brothers Music Group took their employees back in time with an 80s-themed corporate holiday party. From the neon palette to the arcade games, retro televisions, and colorful tunnels, we think they did a rad job. However, the highlight of the night had nothing to do with the theme — except maybe his outfit. That’s right, Trey Songz stole the stage with a whirlwind performance that had every guest on their feet. 

photo courtesy of Ziegfeld Ballroom | planner & production: Chlo Events & Production | entertainment: Total Entertainment | rentals: Bubble NYC Event Rental Furnishings, Taylor Creative Inc. | a/v: Innovative Stage Productions

Not only is a conveyor belt a unique way to serve food, it is also a great opportunity for branding. PartySlate’s launch party in Boston was a huge success with other creative details that included street-style décor, graffiti signage, and custom cocktails. 

photographer: Henry + Mac Photo Co. | planner: Mavinhouse | décor: TYGER | Event Design + Production | venue: Hojoko | invitations & print: Gus & Ruby Letterpress | entertainment: Élan Artists | caterer: Hojoko | videographer: StopGoLove

Guests “fished” for their clam-bisque supper and poured their cocktails from a washing machine hose at this anniversary party. A Pacman-design dance floor was just another fun detail at this creative celebration.

photographer: Robert Hacman Photography | venue: Ice Palace Film Studio | caterer: Joy Wallace Catering

A catering workshop kept participants entertained (and educated) with a Newton’s Cradle. That’s right — momentum and energy were on full display, along with delicious cuisine.

photo: courtesy of Blue Plate Catering: venue: Larkin Hall | caterer: Blue Plate Catering

Well, really just scissors. Guests at this conference summit snipped fruit roll-ups from a ribbon dispenser. Those looking for more “virtual” movement could snap a selfie and watch it magically transform into latte art.

photographer: Erika Dufour | planner: Revel Global Events | décor: Revel Decor | venue: Venue SIX10 | caterer: Limelight Catering

PartySlate’s Atlanta launch party took the Slip ’N Slide to new heights with a lobster slider. Other memorable food included rainbow grilled cheese, a custom ice bar, and personalized oysters. 

photographer: Gold Grid Studios | Venue: Southern Exchange Ballroom | Event Design: B Worley Productions | Event Planner: Suzanne Reinhard Events | Rental Plants: Cinema Greens | Videographer: Iris Films | Caterer: Rosendale Events | Decor: SWAG DECOR, a Rose Brand Company | Paper Goods: Paper Daisies Stationery | Linens: Over The Top Rental Linens | Balloon Installation: MomsKloset Balloon Boutique | Oysters: Oysters XO | Violinist: The Mad Violinist | Aerialist: The Off Centered Project | DJ: Zegi | AV & Lighting: SEAV Event Technology | Popcorn: Popcorn Palooza | Ice Bar: ICE sculpture INC. | Photo Opp: MMI Events | Coffee Bar: Ground Rule Coffee | Sweets: For Goodness Cakes | Hair & Makeup: The Moore Agency

The Passage premiere event party recreated scenes from the hit TV show throughout the venue, including a secret medical facility room. A conveyor belt of delicious cuisine meant that guests had the perfect excuse to leave their seats and mingle. 

photographer: American Image Gallery | planner: Russell Harris Event Group | décor: InBlume | venue: The Broad Santa Monica | caterer: Good Gracious! Events | rentals: FormDecor, Hire Elegance, & Town & Country Rentals | set design: Set Masters | entertainment: Unifier Entertainment | lighting: LightenUp, Inc.

This glam Bat Mitzvah went all out with selfie pop sockets, Bluetooth accessories, and custom-swag party favors. 

photographer: Romy Modlin Photography | planner: Designer Event Chicago | décor: HMR Designs | venue: Morgan Manufacturing | caterer: Entertaining Company | lighting: Diamond Event Group | entertainment: Flow Entertainment, Inc

Bat Mitzvah guests got to sip on selfies of themselves and their friends — in addition to posing in an over-sized frame against the D.C. skyline.

photographer: ImageLink | planner: Magnolia Bluebird design & events | décor: Syzygy, Frost Chicago, and Blue Vanda | venue: Newseum | invitations & print: Inviting Lee | rentals: BBJ Linen, Signature Party Rentals, DC Rental, and Perfect Settings | caterer: The Grand Bevy and Wolfgang Puck Catering – Washington, D.C. | entertainment: Tryon Entertainment | photo booth: Snap! Entertainment | favors: Gifts for the Good Life | valet: Mj Valet

This Vontrobel holiday party kept us entertained all night long with selfie crêpes, a poet crafting on-the-spot poetry, and several rounds of poker.

photographer: Travis W Keyes Photography | planner: Eventsful, Inc. | décor: Ed Libby & Company | venue: Ziegfeld Ballroom | lighting: ISPro | entertainment: Chevy Chevis Entertainment and Creative Games Inc

There was no risk of participants falling asleep at this conference — not with such picture-perfect coffee on hand.

photographer: Erika Dufour | planner: Revel Global Events | décor: Revel Decor | venue: Venue SIX10 | caterer: Limelight Catering

Kids at this Bar Mitzvah learned that even old-school toys like the Etch A Sketch can capture the perfect selfie.

photographer: Domino Arts Photography | planner: Chris Weinberg Events | décor: Always Flowers & Events | venue: Temple Beth Am

This showcasing event at W Chicago – Lakeshore showed guests how to throw a fabulous party — and that, of course, included a selfie station.

photographer: Juancho SC Photography | décor: Platinum Events | venue: W Chicago – Lakeshore

Inspired by Instagram-friendly spots like 29Rooms Chicago and the “Happy Place”, this Bat Mitzvah gave guests the chance to pose in room after room after room.

photographer: Cliq Creative Photography | planner: AAvents | décor: Rockpaper Events Inc. | venue: The Warehouse Event Venue | rentals: Splendid Settings | entertainment: Magen Boys Entertainment

This boho-themed wedding was a photographer’s dream with ombré tablescapes, cascading floral installations, and a watercolor-inspired dance floor. We especially love how a geode wedding cake and jewel-toned glassware brought additional sparkle to this glittering affair.

Geometric mirrored-walls, futuristic furniture, and an iridescent dance floor made this Tampa Gala a dreamscape of silver and shimmer. Performers wore sparkling costumes while guests enjoyed lustrous cocktails — because there really is no such thing as too much glitter.

Opalescent backdrops paired with iridescent uplighting for a stunning aesthetic at this Kérastase collection launch. We adore how shimmering rollerblades and skateboards added additional twinkle (and creative photoshoot props) for this eye-catching event.

The world’s most glamorous diva (Cher, of course) received a glamorous Broadway debut with giant disco balls, mylar fringe, and mirrored backdrops. A vast tasseled chandelier took our breath away — and almost stole the show.

Disco balls, lava lamps, and a slinky ceiling installation made this corporate soirée a night to remember. If we had any reservations about dancing, the psychedelic dance floor quickly changed our minds.

The orchids were glowing, lucite seating was shimmering, and crystal balls were reflecting on mirrored table tops. This unique corporate event even featured greeters decked out in LED attire.

This Bat Mitzvah dazzles us with LED balloons and teal uplighting. An archway of iridescent balloons gave guests a ‘Grammable entrance worth sharing again and again.

Wish Upon a Wedding’s annual gala, at which PartySlate was a sponsor, convinced us that the desert is a good place to lounge. Other glittery décor — like Crystal beaded centerpieces, a mirrored wedding cake, and silvery place settings — kept us swooning throughout the evening as we learned about the couples who were gifted weddings by this generous organization.

This DJ turned up the volume (and the shimmer) at this Boston gala. Purple-sequin throw pillows and a crystal-beaded room divider made the space dazzle from every angle.

Reflective disco balls, starlight projection mapping, and a mirrored dance floor kept this party on fire. This iridescent bar facade meant adults were also able to indulge in the glitz and glamour.

The giant disco ball wasn’t the only thing shining at this glitter bomb-themed Bat Mitzvah. The sparkling linens and glittering votives made the dining experience one for the picture books.

An iridescent ceiling installation almost stole the show at this New Year’s Eve wedding. Of course, the bride was even more stunning — and just as dazzling with sequined high heels, diamond jewelry, and a glittering clutch.

Spotify’s corporate holiday party lit up the evening with gigantic mylar-fringe chandeliers and a dramatic laser-light show. The glamour of the glittering décor was amped up even further by drag queen performers, tarot card readings, and a lively dance party with DJ Hester Prynne. We especially love how the expansive warehouse space was designated into color-themed-areas, such as a Red Soul Hair Salon, Red Trap Diner, Green Funk Laundromat, and Blue Punk Rock Bodega.

This basketball-themed Bat Mitzvah set the scene with coral and blush-colored ceiling fringe. We especially adore how cheerleaders performed with matching-fringe pom poms. The dinner plates and dance floor were on-theme with coral-and-blush basketball designs. Pops of pink and orange continued with colorful napkins and seating upholstery.

A corporate holiday party for Guggenheim amazed guests with a dramatic tear-dropped ceiling installation that reflected a colorful laser-light show. The life-sized helicopter made for a one-of-a-kind photo op, while spectacular projection mapping turned the dance floor into a kaleidoscope of colors. We also love how luxe lounge seating gave guests a cozy spot to enjoy a sumptuous dessert of ice cream and s’mores.

This lavish wedding took tassels to the next level with draped crystals that crowned an all-silver lounge area and floral tassels defining seating areas. Eye-catching ceiling décor brought a sky full of stars to this Big Apple venue. Metallic sofas and iridescent throw pillows were paired with lucite seating and silver drapery for a luxurious effect. Of course, the wall of mirrors adjoining the cocktail area also captured our imaginations.

After becoming a Bat Mitzvah, this young lady deserved a grand entrance to her celebration. A glittering wall of beads made for an arrival that literally sparkled. Even the floral décor eschewed the traditional look for larger-than-life satin blooms that seemed to soar above the banquet tables. Suspended strings of pearls added additional glitz and glamor to this unique celebration.

They say “space is the last frontier.” Chicago’s Columbian Ball for the Museum of Science and Industry sent us across the galaxy and into the depths of the universe with an awe-inspiring planetary installation. Glittering strings of suspended crystals combined with starlit projection mapping convinced us to leave floral décor to the earthlings. We are especially obsessed with the sun-like disco ball drawing all eyes to the center of the room.

The Cher Show on Broadway celebrated at their opening night party with mylar fringe and iridescent tassels — of course. Whether guests were ordering drinks, making a grand entrance, or getting down on the dance floor, they enjoyed stunning waterfall chandeliers of varying colors. Table centerpieces boasting disco balls and metallic floral displays sent us swooning, while dramatic uplighting dazzled us from one moment to the next.

This corporate event paid tribute to the 90s with a jaw-dropping ceiling installation made entirely out of slinkies. Other fun and unique décor elements included retro hand chairs, a skateboard-adorned bar area, and Wayne’s World table-art. Catering stations sported signage that referenced our favorite 90s TV shows and movies, while vintage arcade games gave guests a chance to reconnect with Mario Bros. and Donkey Kong. As excited as we are for 2020 to unfold, sometimes it’s nice to reminisce.

This corporate event took its cue for ceiling décor from the athletic setting. We love the turf-like fringe as well as other vibrant details — like giant balloons and space-age seating.

To celebrate the launch of lululemon and Roksanda’s Fall/Winter collaboration, Broadway stars and collaborators wined and dined with a sumptuous three-course meal. Both cuisine and florals took their cues from the new line’s color palette, creating a visually-stunning (and on-theme) soirée. We especially love how fashion illustrations decorated the walls, providing inspiration at every turn.

photographer: Paulsta | décor: Rye Workshop | venue: lululemon studio space | rental: Party Rental Ltd. and BBJ Linen | caterer: Pinch Food Design

Simplicity does not have to mean scarcity. For this stylish launch party, artfully-arranged blooms ran along the entire length of the banquet table. Black dishware and a cream tablecloth created a stunning contrast with the elegant floral display. We especially appreciate how simple tea lights added a bit of enchantment to this outdoor dinner party.

photographer: Jenn Pablo Photography | planner: TwoFold LA | décor:  Emblem Flowers | venue: The Beverly Hills Hotel | rental: Casa de Perrin, Town & Country Rentals, and La Tavola Fine Linen

This New York gala for Tiffany & Co. was a feast for the eyes with dramatic projection mapping and striking uplighting. Lounge seating was sleek and modern with a black sofa and silver coffee table. In this case, we cannot think of a better place to showcase a simple, yet visually-stunning, floral arrangement.

photo: courtesy of Duggal Greenhouse | planner: VIlla Eugenie | venue: Duggal Greenhouse | rental: Rosebrand and StageCo | caterer: Olivier Cheng Catering & Events

Every detail glimmered at this copper-inspired celebration, including the intricate hanging orchid installations. Burnt-copper menus and sumptuous cake decorated with edible copper detailing were just some of the gorgeous elements that made this soirée one of our favorite celebrations this year.

photographer: Dennis Lee Photography | décor: ML Weddings and Erin McDonald Co | venue: Loft Lucia | invitations & print: Pulp & Ink | rentals: Windy City Linen | caterer: Beyond Catering & Events and Alliance Bakery | entertainment: BeatMix Music

The art of floral arrangement certainly inspired this boho-chic wedding. We adore how colors and textures vary in this gorgeous floral display. The bridal bouquets featured the same exquisite attention to detail. Best of all, no two sets of blooms were the same, making every element at this chic wedding a unique symbol of the couple’s one-of-a-kind romance.

photographer: A Sea of Love | planner & rentals: Gold Dust Event Co. | venue: St. Mary’svideography: Take 4 Films

The careful arrangement of florals at this milestone-birthday celebration immediately caught our eyes. The simplicity of these artful compositions were a perfect contrast to the more psychedelic elements of the room — like mirror laser-cut panels and LED lighting.

Photographer: C&I Studios | planner: Linzi Events | décor: Event Effects  | venue: St. Andrews Country Club | entertainment: Train

This modern and chic wedding chose not to distract from the lofty all-white space. Simple string lighting and delicate floral arrangements let the grandeur of the building shine through. We especially cherish the contrast of industrial space with the nature-inspired floral design.

photographer: Ingmar Chen | venue: Sound River Studios | caterer: Bartleby & Sage

The art of Ikebana reminds us to look beyond the bloom and appreciate the beauty of an entire plant. These branch-heavy centerpieces with pops of dark greenery heralded the beginning of spring at this March wedding. The opulent venue boasted glittering chandeliers and luxe drapery, making it an ideal backdrop for the simple, elegant décor.

photographer: Ben Ramos Photography | planner: The Crystal Ballroom & Lounge in Evanston | venue: The Crystal Ballroom & Lounge in Evanston

A clear tent gave guests at this beach-themed gala unobstructed views of pristine blue sky. With turquoise drapery and azure carpet, this monochromatic wonderland created a dreamy ocean-like backdrop for a worthy cause. We especially love how colorful highboys and upholstered seating popped against the all-blue setting. Whimsical paper-heart cutouts decorated the wood bar, tempting guests to pull out their cameras as they ordered a drink.

This milestone-birthday party took its monochromatic décor to the next level with dueling all-yellow and all-pink rooms. As guests entered the celebration, two seating charts (one yellow, one pink, of course) stood side-by-side, offering the first clue that two different aesthetics awaited. Guests seated in the yellow room enjoyed bursts of yellow balloons, floral centerpieces, and even a yellow-themed craft cocktail. Pink-room guests were wowed with all-pink tablescapes, feathery centerpieces, and whimsical cotton-candy installations. Sometimes two (colors) are truly better than one.

This all-white wedding took its inspiration from the white brick walls and lucite mirage ghost chairs of its venue. White linens and drapery paired with alabaster orchids to create a sleek and modern look. We especially adore the luxe white lounge area with its freeform white-shag rug.

Ralph Lauren honored its new rose-colored Beyond Romance Eau de Perfume with an all-pink product launch. The rosy drapery and carpeting made for a gorgeous pink backdrop, while a blush lounge area and various shades of pink blooms were the perfect monochromatic accents. Best of all, magenta neon signage added dazzling illumination as well as inspiring messaging. Sometimes the right perfume (and color) is all we need to start the day off right.

This stylish birthday soirée won us over with its all-violet décor. Lavender uplighting made everything else — from eggplant-colored accent pillows to dark purple carpets — shine with beauty. Chic tablescapes included deep purple linens and a range of purple-shaded florals. We cannot think of a more delightful way to enjoy a good meal with close friends and family.

Not only did this lavish New York wedding feature a sunny room of all-yellow accent pieces, it also boasted multiple rooms of varied monochromatic colors. From deep-red uplighting that transformed one hallway into a ruby prism to an all-white foyer that featured sparkling lights and ethereal balloons, color set the mood at this unique wedding celebration.

This all-red Game of Thrones premiere after party captured the “fire and blood” of the hit HBO series. Crimson uplighting and deep-red sofas set the mood, while scarlett drapery and a vermillion bar kept us thinking of Daenery’s fire breathing dragons. Best of all, an elaborate ice sculpture resembling the iron throne reflected the all-red extravaganza at hand.