Stylist, blogger, and true event planner, Janet Young, or better yet, The Modern Dame, knows how to throw one heck of a good gathering. Her recent social celebration is chock full of all of the inspiration you need to host your own end of summer fiesta. Dim the lights please. Think pretty pink florals paired with a taco and tequila tasting! This crew of out-of-this-world creatives, whipped together one spectacular modern Mexican soiree hosted at a seriously stunning downtown Los Angeles venue, Hudson Loft. A spacious, contemporary space with large vintage window panelings surrounded by red brick, was the ideal stage for Young to work her magic.
The event planning dream team coupled with photographer Steve Steinhardt, had a chance to fulfill their fantasy of planning and hosting a brightly colored festive party. They filled the room with simple, copper stained chairs, warm wood furnishings, accents of succulents, and floral arrangements by MTF Studio, allowing for the colorful art-like food creations to be the center of attention. Oh, and the best part, they are sharing one of their best kept party tricks with you, a DIY, at home tequila recipe with some tasting tips and tricks included.
Words, Styling & Planning by Janet Young, The Modern Dame; Photography Steve Steinhardt,
My team and I have been dreaming up an excuse to have a taco and tequila party for sometime, so I felt it was the perfect idea to create a fun photoshoot/party filled with yummy food and close vendor friends.
Tell us about the venue that you hosted this spectacular fiesta at.
Located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, Hudson Loft is conveniently located for guests driving from any place in the Los Angeles/ OC County. It is especially ideal for couples who want to have a wedding all in one space. Having multiple spaces each room can be converted into a ceremony, cocktail or reception area. Hudson Loft can accommodate intimate affairs of 30 or up to 250 guests. This venue is not only ideal for a wedding, but a perfect venue for social and corporate events. One special feature this loft provides is the superb roof-top access which can also be used as an ceremony or cocktail area, the view of downtown especially at night is quite exquisite. Having an open canvas in which you can create any type of event, Hudson Loft is one of my favorite venues in downtown LA.
Tell us some of the highlights of your experience at the venue.
The wide open space and floor to ceiling vintage windows with an overview of downtown LA.
Why did you choose this venue as the setting for the gathering?
For this celebration, we wanted to bring a modern spin to the traditional Cinco de Mayo festivities, so we felt Hudson Loft would be the perfect backdrop to create this modern feel.
Why did you make the design decisions you did?
I wanted to incorporate clean and modern details while keeping some traditional touches such as the Papel Picado. I felt adding bronze details would compliment the brick walls nicely and since there are a lot of muted colors in the room, I thought adding a beautiful pop of pink floral arrangements would make it festive and fun.
Do you have any tequila tasting party tips or recipes to share for our audience to re-create at home?
The most important part of tequila tasting is ensuring the quality of tequila. The best tequila is made of 100% Blue Agave and it should be served at room temperature. Have three types of tequila: Blanco, Reposado and Anejo. The difference between the three is the method and aging process which creates either a crystal clear color or a hint of amber tones. My favorite is the Don Julio Blanco which gives a smooth and sweet clean taste. Prepare clear shot glasses along with some lime wedges and salt. Salud!
Tequila Lime Spritzer - A simply refreshing summer cocktail
- 2 oz Tequila blanco
- fresh lime juice
- lime soda
- sea salt
- sliced lime and cucumber for garnish
Pour tequila over ice. Top with lime soda. Squeeze in lime juice. Pinch over sea salt. Add in garnish and serve!
The Modern Dame embodies both spice and simplicity, refined yet energetic. She knows how to fill a room with exactly what is necessary without going over the top. This modern Mexican gathering successfully showcased how well tacos, tequila, and a squad of hard working imaginators can turn an empty room into the perfect Cinco de Mayo-esque celebration.
What additional types of events do you think Hudson Loft is ideal for?
This venue can accommodate many types of events of all sizes. It's flexibility and open canvas is what I love about this venue.
Any inside tips for hosting events here based on your experience?
Make sure to create visible signage on the streets to give directions to the space. You will need to access an elevator to the top floor to enter the venue (not a free-standing space). You'll also need to rent out a parking lot (does not have designated parking space for guests). Make sure to leave enough budget for rentals, as this venue does not come with any furniture and kitchen.
Favorite existing design elements of the venue?
The floor to ceiling vintage window panels that is outlined by brick walls.
Did you meet anyone at the venue that you connected with or made a lasting impression?
Yes! the owner, Steve Pompili and I have become good friends. He has definitely done an amazing job with the space and is constantly making improvements. He makes sure every client is well taken care of and with his easy-going personality it makes anyone who has worked an event or photoshoot at Hudson Loft want to go back.
Credits
Photos: Steve Steinhardt | Designer & Planner: Modern Dame | Caterer: Haute Chefs LA | Floral Designer: MTF Studio | Rentals: Found Rentals | Rentals: Yeah! Rentals | Tabletop: West Elm | Tabletop: Restoration Hardware | Stationery: MTF Studio
