Charlie Rose's Very Merry 4th Unbirthday
“ALICE
She drank from a bottle called DRINK ME
And she grew so tall,
She ate from a plate called TASTE ME
And down she shrank so small.
And so she changed, while other folks
Never tried nothin' at all.”
― Shel Silverstein, Where the Sidewalk Ends: The Poems and Drawings of Shel Silverstein
Alice In Wonderland is a universal theme that anyone can add their own creative spin on while still maintaining the nostalgic look and feel of Lewis Carroll's book. I've seen parties done many ways, especially with the Disney influence...but never, in a home-grown garden setting like this one.
Dawn + Chuck love Charlie and that's how Duck Loves Char was born! Talented florists and movers & makers, this husband and wife team can create just about anything from their bare hands. They've invited me into their enchanting Echo Park home many times but this one was a little extra special. Before I even get into the party, I have to talk about this sunken outdoor living room they built. The small pops of color in the paper accents make it so friendly and inviting:
Dad made homemade signs placed throughout to welcome us, sending every guest "this way" and "that way" into this magical wonderland. As we skipped up the stairs through the dainty little curtains we found a craft table full of color, paint and of course glitter. There was a DIY station to decorate our own teapots and pots for mini succulents as a parting gift. Butterflies waited to be painted and edible necklaces called my daughter's name.
We then made our way to the back of the party but not before stopping for some face painting. Then, we admired hanging paper bees amongst more fresh flowers. We looked up to find a teepee, a vintage swing like my great grandfather used to have and a variety of hanging lanterns and terrariums.
Charlie's Aunt Nikki brought a tiered naked birthday cake that accompanied some whimsical little flower arrangements from dad. There is so much more to say about this party but I invite you instead to see for yourself. Enjoy the photos and thank you for having us, Duck Loves Char!
For this one, all vendor credits go to mom and dad. I know who I want to host my next party!