Celebration of Life
A beautiful celebration of life was planned in honor of best-selling author, Melissa McPhail. It was held at the family’s private estate, and it could not have been a more peaceful setting. A beautiful white tent was set up on the lawn behind their home which featured a spectacular view of the surrounding sunlit hills and the calm pond beneath the yard’s balcony.
One of the most beautiful touches was the tea station that greeted guests as they came down the floral-lined staircase where they could be served one of Melissa’s favorite brews in delicate gold-trimmed Turkish tea cups. Melissa was an avid tea connoisseur and her prized collection of teas and sets from around the world adorned the shelves behind.
Besides the spiral stairs, it felt like almost every inch of the tent was draped in the most heavenly shades of blue, purple, white, green, and pink florals. After entering the tent under a sprawling floral arch, the space was filled with several comfortable lounge areas and tables for guests to mingle and reflect on their loved one’s life. Seats and tabletops overflowed with plush pillows, golden candle-lit Moroccan lanterns, and countless books and decorative objects that reflected Melissa’s greatest passions and her book series.
Guests enjoyed passed hors d'oeuvres and cocktails from Art of Catering as Event Team Entertainment played background music. When it was time for speeches, we heard from her closest friends, family members, and twin daughters what a spectacular life Melissa had led and how much she meant to all who knew her. Afterward, everyone settled in for a delicious Mediterranean spread from Art of Catering served on lovely, mismatched blue china plates and celebrated Melissa’s life until the sun went down.
As a final sweet touch—the valet service surprised attendees with Louis Sherry chocolate boxes, a bookmark engraved with some of Melissa's quotes, and custom-labeled water bottles to enjoy on the way home. It was a love-filled day from start to finish and we were so honored to be a part of it.
XOXO, Nora
Coordinator: Nora | Catering: Art of Catering | DJ/MC: Event Team Entertainment | Florist: Blum Floral Design | Ice: PDX Ice | Paper Goods/Signage: Hey Halle | Photographer: RT Faith Photography | Rentals: Party Place, Great Jones NW, BBJ | Valet: Premiere Valet | Videographer: Focal Point