From the incredible upside-down tulip centerpieces and floral “SOPHIE” hedge wall backdrop to the dreamy chandeliers and chessboard dance floor, I feel like I’m in the Red Queen’s glorious garden… and it is beyond charming!

Liz Stotz, owner, and florist of Parsonage Events, (+ a dream team of other talented vendors including Elm Events at the helm), *dealt* up a winning hand of glam table settings, curiously creative floral arrangements, and classic “Alice” details with an edgy and modern twist. The result was a sophisticated & decidedly grown-up “Sophie In Wonderland” Bat Mitzvah.

Kate Saler Photography beautifully captured every dreamy detail – so join me down the rabbit hole for the whimsical celebration…

PARTY HIGHLIGHTS to look out for:

• “Say Cheshire Cheese” photo booth sign + key place cards in a jumbo moss and gold frame display
• Enchanting upside-down tulip centerpieces, hot pink napkins & clock” chargers
• Card cake pops, “We’re all mad here” t-shirts & whimsical striped pink invitation
• “Curiosity often leads to trouble” cocktail napkins and “Drink Me” champagne glass tags
• Queen of Hearts chessboard dancefloor + hedge wall with pink “SOPHIE” spelled in daises

PARTY DETAILS, as told by Liz…

Sophie in Wonderland was truly a collaborative effort of an incredible family and a dream team of vendors. In the end, it’s this harmonious partnership, paired with such a fun, bright, innovative vision that brings a spectacular event to life.

When Sophie and her mom first walked into our floral design studio with their event planner, we knew they were special. This mommy-daughter duo was a perfect blend of a giving, supportive parent and a truly appreciative teenager. What a gift to have as clients! Sophie’s mom explained to us that she wanted to bring Alice in Wonderland to life for Sophie’s Bat Mitzvah celebration, but in an adult, sophisticated way – cartoons didn’t match with her daughter’s ceremonial entrance into adulthood. She asked us, as well as every other vendor involved, to take her initial concept and run with it. She encouraged everyone to think “big” and do what we all do best. And so we did…

Each vendor incorporated their company’s strengths and everything was overseen with meticulous attention to detail by Bonnie at Elm Events. From a boxwood hedge wall to an enchanted-forest tablescape, from custom signage to signature drinks, from Mad Hatter crazy clocks atop each charger to a Queen of Hearts chessboard dancefloor, every vendor went above and beyond. As a result, this event represented all the whimsy, creativity, and femininity that is encapsulated by this time-tested childhood story. All along the way, the clients continued to bring enthusiasm and support for each and every over-the-top concept that was suggested.

On the day of the event, we all worked tirelessly during the setup with each and every detail. Hundreds of red tulips were suspended upside down as part of centerpieces, life-size portraits of Sophie were installed, draping and lighting were added, and everything was dripping in gold, accented by candles’ soft glow. Just before the event began, Sophie came in for a private reveal of the room. Normally a subdued, polite young lady, she lost her composure – squeals of delight and huge hugs for mom with gratitude. Our hearts swelled as she screamed about the room being totally perfect – our work was complete and the party was about to start…