The first time we met Nikki, we hit it off instantly–she was articulate and witty but never annoying. We were challenged by her choice of theme for her party–the auteur Wes Anderson. As a longtime fan of the film director, she wanted her debut to revolve around some of his films. She preferred a certain color palette reminiscent of “The Darjeeling Limited”—hues of orange, red, sky blue, and emerald green. These were the obvious color choices reflected on the party invitations.
At the foyer of the ballroom, stylist Teddy Manuel dropped little hints—from the photowall to the cocktail tables—about how the reception would look like. Still, guests were wondering as to what would greet them inside the dining area. They queued at the registration table to get their seat assignments which were indicated on mint candies in color coordinated packages.
True to the director’s quirky style, Teddy fashioned table centerpieces which featured iPad Minis wrapped to look like miniature television sets showing scenes from movies directed by Wes Anderson. Stacks of books, a globe, and mini leather luggages complemented the mood and setting. On the presidential table, themed sugar cookies with the names of guests served as place cards. For the stage, Teddy recreated a mini library complete with shelves of real books, a leather couch, and Nikki’s photos in vintage frames. To enhance the scene, tarpaulin printed with template image of full bookshelves covered the middle pillars of the ballroom.
Everyone in the ballroom was in awe as Nikki made her grand entrance in a stunning black tafetta ball gown, a creation of Veluz Reyes. It had a square neckline that featured pleated and laser-cut embellishments all over.
Guests were asked to go onstage to have their souvenir photos with the debutante taken. After the picture-taking session, they eagerly proceeded to the buffet tables.
Nikki took the time to change into a yellow top and white skirt ensemble, also by Veluz. The skirt was handpainted with a colorful image of a girl with flowers, symbolizing the blossoming of the debutante into womanhood.
Speeches were delivered by family and friends. The ceremonial 18 shots was also done. What made the program unique was the “lipsync battle” between the debutante and her dad which ended in a slow dance. This served as a prelude to the 18 roses ritual.
When the formal program ended, Nikki thanked her guests for attending and requested them to linger awhile for a surprise. She, herself, introduced her special guests and her ultimate favorite band, the UDD or the Up Dharma Down. It was indeed a night that will be etched forever in the memory of Nikki and her guests.