How to Turn an Intimate Indoor Space into a Secret Garden

 

Walls covered in creeping floral vines, lush arrangements spilled down the center of a lengthy dining table, muted floral print fabrics and edible flowers on the dining menu all work together to create the look of this secret garden party that actually took place indoors. Set inside Charleston art space, The Vault on King Street, this ethereal setting was used as a backdrop for an intimate 30th birthday party for local influencer, Kristin Chambless.

We recently caught up with Marni Rothschild, who photographed the occasion, and got the full story behind this fabulously floral event. From the inspiration that was garnered from one small swatch of fabric to the execution of a flawless celebration, she’s spilling all the details of what went into transforming an indoor space into a lively garden-like atmosphere.





Why choose The Vault? How was working at this venue? 

The Vault provided the perfect balance of a blank slate and a small space so guests would truly feel that sense of being in an intimate courtyard. Not to mention the pre-strung café lights provided a warmth that really achieved that cozy, soft, feminine feel she was looking for. 





What was the design inspiration? Any special touches? 

Initially everything stemmed from a muted floral fabric swatch Kristin discovered online. She envisioned lots of layered textures and patterns, all in the greenery family. Not knowing the origin of the base inspiration fabric, they turned to The Social Spool to source this specific fabric and another pattern to pair well for tabletop.

And TONS of whimsical florals and natural greenery... emphasis on garden! She enlisted the help of the talented Reagan Barnes (Events by Reagan) to help further brainstorm and execute the concept start to finish. Kristin wanted to incorporate some of her vintage glassware, so the varied water goblets added some great contrast with the ivory and muted floral prints, paired with Snyder’s clean lined plates and gold flatware. Floral direction was left in the hands of Caroline of Juniper and Jasmine. She took the Garden Party theme to new heights with creeping wall vines, overflowing centerpieces cascading down the center of the table, and a perfectly arched floral masterpiece at the entrance of the space. 






What did the menu look like? 

For menu, the duo enlisted one of Charleston’s best - CRU Catering, to come up with 3-courses fitting for the celebration. Guests started with a fresh salad garnished with edible flowers, followed by a choice of mushroom gnocchi or braised short rib + cauliflower mash. To finish the evening - forget the cake - per the birthday girl’s request, cookies were to be served! CRU concocted a beautifully presented milk + cookie trio for the guests indulgence.






Credits 

Photography: Marni Pictures | Venue: The Vault | Linens: The Social Spool | Floral Design: Juniper and Jasmine | Event Design: Events by Reagan | Rentals: Snyder Events | Catering: CRU Catering