Backyard Graduation Celebration
To say that grad season looked a bit different this year would be an understatement! Luckily, in our house – thanks to Raj from Lux Affairs and her team – we were able to keep the party going – with flying colours!
There were two cute graduates to celebrate this year – Kaitlyn (Kate) graduated grade 7 and will be movin’ on up to highschool next year – a big accomplishment! On the other hand, Kadence graduated Kindergarten! hehe The 2019-2020 school year was an extra special one as it was the only year that these sisters would attend the same school together… even if it was cut short!
When Raj from Lux Affairs reached out to me, I was over the moon (or should I say, ‘over the rainbow’?) lol As an April baby, Kate’s 13th birthday got a bit lost in the quarantine haze. So when Raj offered to help us mark her elementary school grad with some extra special decor… I jumped at the chance!
Setting the scene
More than just a decor or rental company, Lux Affairs is a Creative Event Design & Decor company. Working with Raj and her team was a first-class experience all the way from concept through execution. Both of my girls are into rainbows, so we decided to make the party super bright and colourful! The white cart is just one of Lux’s many props and furniture rental pieces available… and did it ever make a great focal point for the backyard event!
Raj and her team were extremely professional and courteous! They arrived ready-to-go with their beautiful truck and quickly began to transform the backyard space. Much of the decor was pre-assembled, so the process was a quick transformation! As a graphic designer, I appreciated all of the details - including their branded face masks! Social distance and safety was a priority for them.
Pretty Goodies
I decided to use the cart to display a variety of pretty and colourful treats for the girls and our family who later came to celebrate with us. Together, Kate and I baked and prepared some extra fun rainbow goodies which we will share here in a following article!
Raj created the cutest, customized sign for Kate which brought in the rainbow theme and set off the display perfectly!
Capturing The Memories
Publishing magazines for over 10 years and creating editorial has taught me the value of professional photography. It’s true, I’ve been a bit spoiled to know and work with such talented photographers as Iulia Agnew, who joined us to capture these photos.
When it comes to photography, there really is no comparison between (hopefully remembering to) take the photos yourself and having someone who knows lighting, angles and how to really work with the camera! We tend to invest a lot of time, energy (and money) into events. The purpose is to celebrate the joy in the moment… but also to create lasting memories! Working with a professional photographer may not be as pricey as you might think… and it is well worth it! Even if only for just a one hour session, I recommend allotting the time and having the photographer come prior to the event while everything (and everyone) is fresh!
The photoshoot in and of itself was a gift, but another fun thing I gave Kate was this cute tumbler that says ‘Highschool Fuel’, custom-made for Kate by my friend Zakkiya @thelifeofacraftymama
Q&A With Raj from Lux Affairs
I am so grateful to Raj for making this party so special for the girls. It was admittedly over-the-top in the best way possible! Who would have thought that it was possible to create something like this for a BBQ party in your own backyard? Well, it is! The best part was that I didn’t have to lift a finger for set-up or take down. They simply let themselves in the following day and when I got home, it was like it was all just a dream! lol I urge you to reach out to Raj to discuss your upcoming summer party or event to see what is possible.
Raj sat down to answer a few questions for us…
Q: Tell me about Lux Affairs from its beginning to now.
A: Lux Affairs began 5 years ago, mainly working on editorial shoots and designs. Using our experience, creativity and hands on approach to designing events, we evolved very quickly. Our unique designs, attention to detail, ability to create experience focused events and professional approach attracted a niche clientele.
Q: Describe the event set-up that was most memorable for you.
A: My most memorable set-up was my sisters baby shower. My sister has been my number one supporter and for me to be able to do something for her during a very special time in her life was amazing! She was also the easiest client to work with.
Q: We love the cart you provided for our grad party... what are some other events this works for and how have you used it in different ways?
A: Our cart is such a chic item that can be incorporated into any event! We've used it as a welcome table, cake table, bar, and event a smores station. It is always a hit and one of our most requested rental items!
Q: What are some other fun props and furniture items that you offer for parties?
A: We carry many different styles of props and some our my favourite to design with are garden bikes, pretty lounge furniture (blush pink of course), and most recently, our boho items have been such a hit.
Q: Is there a minimum event size or rental budget to work with you? How does that work?
A: We work on events of all sizes and budgets. We've completed events with anywhere from 5 - 1500 guests!
Q: As a woman in business, what are some of your must haves?
A: A calendar/notebook, I love to write everything down and stay organized between kids, work and personal life… it gets busy! Airpods, because I'm always on the road and like to maximize my time while driving. The latest iPhone because I love capturing moments (no this isn't an ad for apple!) All of these things combined with a tall Starbucks coffee will get me through a busy day!
Raj Grewal, CPA
Creative Director
604.813.7272
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