Elegant Birthday Celebration in The Fairmont Empress Library

Event, Birthday

I seriously hope to be this elegant when I turn 70...


D's daughter contacted me to photograph her mom's 70th birthday party at the Fairmont Empress in Victoria. This is one of my favourite venues for so many reasons and when she described her vision for the event it became very clear why she chose this venue. They settled on the Library Room which has beautiful rich-toned wood, ample sunlight from extravagant windows, harbour views and an eye-catching turquoise fireplace and mantle. Not to mention the professional and poised staff which simply seals the deal.


Her daughter described the vision as "fun, soft, romantic party full of martinis, tea cups, literature and laughter in celebration of the leading lady!" and I honestly think she nailed it. She planned and executed the entire thing like a pro, using leading vendors in the industry such as Folklore Floral, Trend Decor Event Design and Decorate Victoria.


She made the signage herself and one of my favourite parts was the quaint library check-out slips that she used to place mark the guests assigned seats.


I was hired to capture the details, guest candids, portraits of the birthday gal (which was so so fun) well as the final speech before their dinner commenced. Consider this gallery to be a small amuse-bouche, if you will, to get an idea of the overall vibe.


If you have been wanting to plan an elegant event for yourself or someone you love, I think the Fairmont Empress is an excellent choice for you.


Feel free to reach out if you'd like for me to document your event or if you have any questions or need additional vendor recommendations.


Looking forward to hearing from you <3

Shout out to the other vendors of course.


Venue: Fairmont Empress

Florals: Folklore Floral

Decor: Trend Decor

Linens: Decorate Victoria

Sunlight streams through windows in a dark wooden paneled room with vintage furniture and hanging floral arrangements.
Pink and peach floral arrangements with greenery decorate a dark wooden interior space.
Decorative hanging floral arrangements with green foliage and pink blooms on dark background.
Ornate vintage ceiling with geometric patterns illuminated by elegant crystal chandeliers.
Elegant table settings with white linens and tall candlesticks in a formal dining room.
Elegant table setting with tall candelabra centerpiece and hanging amaranthus.
Sunlit library room with wooden shelves and elegant furniture casting dramatic shadows.
Formal dining room with wood paneling, chandeliers, and round tables set for an event.
Elegant dining room setup with round tables covered in white linens and wooden chairs near large windows.
Wood paneled walls with ornate details stretch across a grand interior space.
Elegant table setting with teal chairs, candlelight, and framed photos against dark wood paneling.
Lit white candles and green grapes arranged decoratively on dark wooden church pews.
White place settings and tall candles arranged on formal dining tables in a dimly lit room.
Place settings with teacups and menus arranged on a white tablecloth.
Close-up details of an elegant dinner menu with decorative tassels and calligraphy.