A TIMELESS AFTERNOON: BABY SHOWER BLISS BY THE POOL / by Eric Monteiro

In the heart of Coral Gables, a sun-dappled poolside garden transformed into an elegant celebration for a baby shower, where the vibrant hues of tropical South Florida foliage framed every corner of this chic event. Beneath the shade of live oak trees, delicate umbrellas and thoughtfully curated floral arrangements elevated the ambiance while guests reveled in a serene atmosphere, soaking in the gentle breeze and a joyful anticipation of new beginnings.

The culinary centerpiece: an opulent high-tea-inspired spread that would rival the most exclusive English tea parties. Open-faced sandwiches, layered with fresh, seasonal ingredients, were presented on fine china, while crystal flutes sparkled with floral-infused beverages.

The dessert table, laden with our signature creations included an array of house-made macarons in pastel hues, intricate tartlets, choux pastries, and a selection of petits fours for every taste. This abundant display captured the essence of celebration, weaving the event's narrative of abundance, elegance, and indulgence.

A THEME OF STEPFORD UTOPIA

Every detail of this event was designed to evoke the nostalgic glamour of a bygone era, inspired by the classic film The Stepford Wives. “The theme, Stepford Utopia, was all about structure, protocol, and tradition, elevated with hints of sexy and sweet,” shares Alina Isambert, who produced the event alongside her daughter, Aline.

This vision was brought to life through carefully selected elements: tiered depression glass, delicate embroidered umbrellas, and china adorned with subtle red patterns. “It was a harmony of patterns, lines, and geometrics, balanced by the softness of baby’s breath and pastel tones that whispered rather than screamed,” explains Alina. The thoughtful decor mirrored the essence of a baby shower, with subtle nods to the sweetness of new life while maintaining a polished, glamorous aesthetic.

COLLABORATION AND INSPIRATION

Creating an event of this caliber begins with understanding the client’s vision. “We start with mood boards, exploring why the theme is meaningful - whether it’s about evoking a specific feeling, honoring a memory, or simply having fun,” says Alina. Inspiration often comes from art, fashion, and even sustainability, which is then translated into colors, textures, and patterns reflective of a particular era.

The process is deeply collaborative, blending the client’s desires with the team’s expertise to craft events that are both personal and unforgettable. “Each event is a snapshot of a moment in time, curated with an artistic eye,” Alina adds. “We work to translate those moments into a cohesive experience through decor and menu design.”

AN ERA-INSPIRED MENU

The menu, a cornerstone of the event, was meticulously curated to align with the Stepford Utopia theme. Vintage vessels and tiered plates showcased the era’s aesthetic, while pastel-toned pastries and delicately adorned finger sandwiches brought the concept to life.

“The way food is presented is an art in itself,” Alina emphasizes. “It’s not just about the flavors—it’s about creating a table that feels both simple and elaborate, where every detail is purposeful.” This artistic approach transforms the culinary offerings into more than just sustenance—they become part of the decor, seamlessly woven into the overall design.

WHAT FAMILIES ARE SEEKING

Baby showers today are more than celebrations - they’re opportunities to create lasting memories. Families and moms-to-be often look for originality, creativity, and moments that reflect their own story. They want simplicity with meaning, and events that honor family traditions while offering a fresh, modern perspective.

For those inspired by this beautiful celebration, the possibilities are endless. With careful planning, a keen eye for detail, and a touch of artistry, any milestone can become a timeless moment to cherish.