2020. What a year. So many numbers we hear about–the number of COVID-19 cases, political polls, days of civil unrest, days in quarantine, number of days businesses have been closed, hurricanes. We are counting a lot this year.

But for me, there is one number that will always stand out in 2020.

50.

I turned fifty. Just typing the word seems unbelievable–like most of 2020.

After weeks of social distancing and quarantining–before a statewide mask mandate–I was thankfully able to celebrate this monumental number with one perfect day.

As the air turns cooler and we say hello to fall, I wanted to officially say goodbye to this special summer. The summer I turned 50. And the celebration with all of my favorite things: stunning details, delicious food, beautiful art, jazz music and (especially) my closest people.

There will be a time when we all look back on 2020 and reflect on all the unimaginable circumstances and events that defined this year.

Though many things will come to mind, this day will stand out.

Now, to scroll through the details and relive it over and over.

And over.

–THE TABLES–

“When a guest sits down there should be something beautiful and inspiring to look at.” –– Annie Falk

–THE FLORALS–

“A flower does not think of competing with the flower next to it. It just blooms.” –– Zen Shin

–THE ART–

“Art speaks where words are unable to explain.” –– Threadless Artist Mathiole

–THE DETAILS–

“Luxury is in each detail.” –– Hubert de Givenchy

–THE CAKE & BALLOONS–

"A party without cake is just a meeting." — Julia Child

–THE VENDOR LIST–

Event Coordinator: Angela Marie Events
Location: Houmas House and Gardens
Food & Beverages: Houmas House and Gardens
Photography: Sarah Ward
Cake: Sweet Stirrings
Live Painting: Nicole Callac
Invitation: The Queen Bee
Artwork: Rachael Roxanne
Soloist: Mallory Morgan
Jazz Band: The JGrayJazz Trio
Calligraphy: Ashley D’Aubin
Cookies: Sugar Kettle Cookie Company
Oyster Place Cards: IsadorasMarket on Etsy
Florals: Angela Marie Events
Balloon Wall: Baton Rouge Balloons
Dress: BCBG

Dear Downton Abbey,

I was late to arrive to your story, but I am so thankful that when I did arrive, it was the perfect time. Your story spoke into my life in ways I could have never imagined.

To the women of Downton Abbey, you inspire me. May we all strive to have the:

gentleness and devotion of Cora
vulnerability and strength of Edith
courage and passion of Sybil
loyalty and fortitude of Mary
spunk and drive of Daisy
dedication and work ethic of Mrs. Patmore
spirit and soul of Rose
faithfulness and kindness of Anna
compassion and patience of Mrs. Hughes
boldness and heart of Isobel
wit and wisdom of Violet.

I adore you all.

And to my favorite Downton men—Thomas, Mr. Bates, Mr. Moseley, Robert, Matthew and Tom—oh how I love you.

And of course, Mr. Carson. Thank you, Mr. Carson, for reminding us that “The business of life is the acquisition of memories. In the end, that’s all there is.”
Ah, yes indeed. Memories.

Lastly, thank you Downton Abbey for the reminder that whether upstairs or downstairs, we are all connected. We all have a story. We all experience heartache.

But, most importantly, we all have a desire to be accepted, to live a life of purpose, and to be loved.

You are loved, Downton Abbey.

Until we meet again,
Michelle