We all love the work of actress Marsai Martin – we’ve watched her grow up, so it was a dream when she asked us to plan and design her 18th birthday party. She was certain she wanted Shrek as the theme because it’s a movie that she fell in love with at an early age. But this wasn’t going to be a simple Shrek-themed shindig! We envisioned an enchanted forest vibe in a “Kingdom Far, Far Away.”

The exterior was dubbed “The Swamp” bedecked in grass and vines and made for a cool spot for partygoers to take photos. As guests continued to make their way in, they were met with stilt walkers in gilt ensembles and a magician from Artists Creating Entertainment, glamorous lighting crafted by our team, and even an area where attendees could have their portrait taken on a bullion-hued vintage couch provided by CED.

Marsai looked gorgeous – her first gown, a velvet-green custom design, followed by a red rose high-low jumpsuit and red wig – inspired by the look of Princess Fiona. She mingled with friends, sipped on cocktails concocted by Crystal Bartenders at the bar adorned in bright green-and-purple décor, enjoyed Mexican food from Savage Tacos, and fare from sponsors Nexx Burger and Beyond Meat. The desserts were royal-like as well, including customized cookies from Cookieteria, decadent crepes from Crepes & Shakes, frozen yogurt from Yogurtland, and personalized cupcakes from Belladonna Sweets.

Live trees, box hedges, greenery garlands suspended overhead, and more were placed throughout the space and highlighted with laser lighting and uplighting. The ambience was absolutely magical! Plush collections of couches, tabletops dressed in luxurious dark-green linens, glamorous chandeliers, butterflies affixed on lanterns and greenery provided by Peony Secret, whimsical three-foot-high mushrooms, and even a wishing well made of stones decorated the area. It was breathtaking! You know the best part? You could see how much Marsai’s family and friends loved her; they arrived in regal attire from ball gowns to full tuxedos and truly played into the theme. Lemonhead hosted a fun, Euphoria inspired glitter bar for guests to enhance their enchanting looks.

Guests experienced a plethora of fun from a jumper by Lil Munchkins and arcade games provided by Gems Party Rentals, as well as interactive photo booths from LX Pix. DJ Casanova played the old school jams and newer favorites, while 3D Sounds took care of the dynamic sound, so the whole crowd could feel the beat. The dance floor was packed and palpable with excitement, especially when it came time to sing to the birthday girl. Sweet Deetails crafted a cake formed into the shape of a princess castle, along with giant candles; and Marsai joined the DJ on stage as the crowd sang “Happy Birthday” in unison.