An Intimate Birthday Tablescape with an Exotic Edge
I may be aging myself a bit, but I’ve been in the events industry for 23 (!) years. Over that time—and across the thousands of events we’ve produced with Helen Olivia Flowers—I’ve had the privilege of building relationships with vendors who have become true friends. I like to call them “friendors.”
One of those friendors is Danielle, the talent behind Magnolia Bluebird Events and Ghost Host. We came up in the industry around the same time, and she’s always stood out for her ability to create events that feel fresh, unique, and completely her own. She’s also one of those people who constantly inspires me and pushes me creatively in the best way.
So when she asked me to design an intimate tablescape for her 45th birthday, I was so honored. She shared a lookbook to get things started, and from there we ran with a vision that blended natural elements with a slightly exotic edge. The florals were an unexpected mix of dried textures, soft anthurium, and, of course, orchids—Danielle’s signature flower. If you know her, you know there’s always an orchid involved.
In addition to her wedding planning work, Danielle recently launched her sister company, Ghost Host, which focuses on effortless, tailored entertaining. It showed in every detail—the rentals were thoughtful, layered, and just really interesting, a true reflection of her style.
I was also excited to discover a new-to-me venue downtown, The Swan House—a boutique inn and event space that’s perfect for intimate gatherings (or even a staycation). Definitely one to have on your radar.
The evening was captured by Eli Turner Studios, who always manages to document events in such a beautiful, natural way.
Cheers to Danielle, her milestone birthday, and a friendor relationship that just keeps getting better.
