The Continuation of an Editorial Celebrating the Emergence of Summer and Joyful Living. If you have not yet read Part I to this series, you can find it here.
“She wasn’t tired. She was uninspired. She traced back the path she had taken since birth and realized it was a path laid down by others. She left the path. Stepped where there were no footprints. Learned to make choices that pleased her soul. She felt something new and wonderful grow in her chest. She came to call this feeling peace.”
–Jaiya John
She returns home in the afternoon to prepare for an intimate dinner party she is hosting at her house. She has been planning this celebration for a long time, eagerly awaiting the emergence of summer. She has sent boxed invitations to her closest friends featuring concrete, gold, and acrylic details…a glimpse into what to expect at this long-awaited social gathering. It has been a long winter, and she is looking forward to seeing her friends in such an intimate and beautiful setting. The windowsills are adorned with moss and airy floral accents and her stairwell is embellished with cascading orchids and dramatic white blooms. A floral installation covers the wall in the foyer where she will greet her guests. She will start the evening wearing a stunning evening gown with billowing, sparkly sleeves and then later change into an elegant yet approachable cocktail dress.
The table is set with lush floral, candlelight, and place settings that evoke a feeling that is both elevated and familiar. She is sophisticated, refined, and inspired by the world, and infuses her innovative style into the table. From the delicate glass and gold flatware, to the bespoke place cards, imperfect stone chargers, and silk linens, it is this specific contrast of salvaged pieces joining with refined luxurious relics that brings her joy.
As guests arrive, she embraces the art of gathering as a sacred tradition as she thoughtfully introduces her friends. They toast and acknowledge one another and bond over the hard year they endured. But tonight is about celebrating and spending time together. They dine on a culmination of her favorite foods, inspired by her love for Asian and Italian cuisine. Cake is served, and guests are treated to individual cakes delicately designed with kintsugi-inspired details. The celebration is met by the soft warm glow of elevated candles hovering above the floral – a powerful reminder that love and light always rise above.
The evening is both healing and hopeful. As the summer season brings lighter days, they are reminded that being in good company is worth the wait. She has claimed this life of refined elegance and true happiness as her own and chooses to celebrate it daily.
Words provided by Casey LeGalley, La Rue Floral
A note from the photographer, Carrie:
It was a tremendous honor to have been selected to photograph this lifestyle editorial. Being a part of a collaboration that was so intentional both in story and beauty. Months in the making, and three full days shooting, every member of our team poured their hearts and souls into bringing this vision to life. Thank you to Casey for your vision behind this editorial and the story you’ve presented. A story of stepping out from a long, cold winter and spring season to living in the fullness of summer warmth, light, beauty and true elegance. May we all possess the knowledge and understanding to find within our own souls these qualities and reflect just that this summer.
Photography: Carrie King Photographer
Floral and Vision: La Rue Floral
Planning: Clover Events and Productions
Video: New Pixel Films
Papers and Details Styling: Sweet Zion Paperie
Rooftop Venue: London House
Private Residence: Charcoal Factory Loft
Cake: Flourish Cake Design
Silks: La Soie Colorado
Rentals and Place Settings: The Festive Frog, Cloud Terre
Model: Chelsea Jenkins
Makeup: Francely Makeup
Hair: We Only Do Pretty
Fashion Styling: Ariana Anderson
Rooftop Gown: Goli June
Lounge Attire: Veronica Sheaffer, Knot Standard
Boat Attire: Knot Standard
Boudoir Attire: LouletteLingerie, A.B. Ellie, Honey Bridal, Department of Curiosities
Evening Gown Attire: Rara Avis, Belle BridalAtelier, A.B. Ellie, Honey Bridal
Cocktail Dinner Attire: Sophie Et Voilà, BelleBridal Atelier, Hushed Commotion, Honey Bridal
