The months of May and June are not only reserved for weddings.  Graduation parties, like this Crimson & Blue dinner for Kara, also bring families together in celebration.

Photos courtesy of Nicole Polk.

The first of two family gatherings we were asked to design in honor of Kara’s college graduation, this dramatic dinner party took place at Philadelphia hotspot, Restaurant R2L.  Normally closed on Sunday evenings, the restaurant opened its doors to accommodate the incredibly busy weekend of graduation parties.   For Kara, who grew up in New York and Puerto Rico with a sophisticated urban style, R2L was the one and only choice for her celebration.  Of course, we were asked to design the elegant dinner using University of Pennsylvania colors – crimson and blue!

University of Pennsylvania’s pennants were tied to the backs of garnet red Chivari chairs for a little collegiate spirit!  

Gorgeous red flowers such as Amaryllis, Peonies, Roses, Tulips and Anthurium dance down the center of the table in simple glass vases.  Deep red taper candles in crackled silver glass candle holders alternate with contemporary glass votives.  The actual graduation ceremony tends to run a tad late into the evening taking dinner into “after theater” hours.  Yet, one must admit, dining on the 37th floor at 10:00pm does have its own magical charm.  Look at that incredible city view!

We designed a menu booklet of inspirational quotes and “secrets of success” anecdotes that was produced for us by The Papery of Philadelphia.    The booklets were placed on our stunning glossy red chargers (a personal favorite!).  The Whipped Bakeshop provided a thoroughly appropriate cap and gown-inspired cake as a surprise for Kara.  Each guest went home with a monogrammed canvas tote containing items meant to pay lasting tribute to Kara’s incredible day:  a sterling silver frame, an inspirational book, a leather journal, and University of Pennyslvania baseball cap, pen, keychain and mug.  Earlier in the day, we packed stadium seat cushions, snack bags and umbrellas in limos to get the family through the long-but-inspiring graduation ceremony.   Congratulations Kara!