Britney Annis

Tim's Birthday Weekend | 8.25.2023

Ultimate Surprise Party

Turning 30 is a milestone that deserves a grand celebration, but when life's hustle and bustle get in the way, it's easy to let such occasions slip by without the fanfare they merit. This was the case for my husband, whose 30th birthday coincided with a whirlwind of work, family commitments, and our first year of marriage. Despite the belated timing, I was determined to give him a surprise that would encapsulate the sophistication and uniqueness he embodies.

Surprises are no small feat, especially when the person you're trying to astonish is as perceptive as my husband. With shared locations on our phones, a joint bank account, and his birthday already passed, the task seemed nearly impossible. But with a little creativity and the help of a dear friend, we found the perfect ruse.

High Violet holds a special place in our hearts, not just as a favorite hangout but also as a place of significant memories. It's right across from Bureau, the suit shop where my husband found the perfect wedding suit, tailored to his unique style and fit. This attention to detail and customization is what makes Bureau stand out, and it's this same one-of-a-kind sophistication we wanted to infuse into his surprise party.

With the help of Lauren, an event planner friend, we began to craft an event that would reflect my husband's personality. We chose High Violet's outdoor space and Cafe Post Scripts as our canvas, creating a menu with Paige by Design that featured his favorite foods and drinks, including pizza from Coco Bar and Bistro and desserts from Perry's Ice Cream.

To capture the essence of my husband's masculine yet inviting nature, we collaborated with Sara from Beck and forth co. She designed a floral meadow that brought the outdoors inside, creating moments throughout the venue with organic installations and highly texturized centerpieces. The mix of white bud vases and clear glass added depth and reflected light, while taper candles introduced warmth and height to the tables.

The final piece of the puzzle was the guests. I reached out to his close friends, some of whom flew in from places like Jacksonville and Boston. The ruse was simple: a local friend invited him for drinks at High Violet, leading him unsuspectingly to the surprise. The staff orchestrated a "tour" of the back facility, and as he walked in, the surprise unfolded into a memorable moment he would never forget.

In the end, the party was not just a celebration of a birthday; it was a testament to the love and thoughtfulness that can turn even the most belated occasion into a sophisticated and unforgettable event.