Stacey’s Panama Dining Room 40th

In a world where many opt for grand celebrations, Stacey June - counsellor, psychotherapist, well-known Australian broadcaster, author, and co-founder of The Well - chose a different path. Preferring intimate moments, attention to small details, and embracing winter romance, she celebrated at the iconic Melbourne venue, Panama Dining Room on Smith Street. Stacey's vision centered around using floral design to infuse the event with a warm and inviting ambiance for her guests, creating an unforgettable Collingwood dining experience. Read on to learn how April & Fritz collaborated with Stacey to curate her dream 40th birthday celebration at this exquisite restaurant on Smith Street.

Why were flowers important as part of your celebration?

I wanted to set the scene for an intimate affair. To create something special with hopes that by creating a sense of wintery romance it felt like a night out for everyone rather than just a celebration of my birthday!

What drew you to April & Fritz?

Head Designer, Bree! She was so excited and enthused by the vision. Adding suggestions and ideas without moving away from what I saw my vision to be so I felt completely backed. Once we were on the same page she then elevated the vision with her knowledge of what was in season and gave a really realistic and flexible idea around budget and time restraints.

What was your vision for the evening, and how did you choose your style?

I wanted sexy, romantic, special and wintery. I wanted people to feel like leaving the house in the middle of July was not only worth it, but comforting and cozy.

How did the floral designs enhance the overall atmosphere of your event?

It completely set the mood of the event and had guests feel special that they were a part of such ambiance! It was an intimate guest list and I think the floral designs helped encapsulate a private exclusive feel.

What was your plan of attack during the design process? How did April & Fritz help?

I wanted it to feel a certain way. I knew how to describe this but had no idea of how to specifically curate it with flowers. Bree took the time to meet with me in person and spend time listening to me explain the feeling I wanted to achieve. She then went away and advised on how we could best achieve this with a full plan of attack; with a mood board which included examples of arrangements, what extras we would need (candles etc) and costs to execute. I felt completely across the in’s and outs of it, and no surprises which I appreciated

Panama Dining Room is such an iconic Melbourne venue. How did you find it and select it over other locations?

It has such a mystical wintery feel and because I didn’t have a traditional wedding (I eloped) so I was excited to host a dinner where so many celebrate their nuptials in a way that worked for me. My 40th!

What advice would you give to others planning a milestone celebration in terms of incorporating flowers and working with April & Fritz?

Have a clear vision or at least clarity on what you want the event to feel like so your event can feel as personal as mine did! April & Fritz were able to instinctively listen to the feel of everything and once I felt we were clear on that, I was able to enjoy planning other elements and trust her completely! I also felt not an ounce of stress on the night as I knew we were on the same page.

How did the collaboration with April & Fritz contribute to the success of your birthday dinner party?

It not only enhanced the experience for my guests but it allowed me to feel all of the things I wanted the theme to feel - special, wintery, sexy etc as I didn’t lift a finger and could enjoy getting ready and spending time with my guests. I’ll never forget walking into the space! It was magical. April & Fritz were professional and easy going - would highly recommend.

Final Thoughts

To those planning their own celebrations, we leave you with Stacey’s timeless words of advice: embrace your vision, infuse it with the charm of flowers, and entrust it in the hands of skilled designers. Ready to create something memorable? Simply fill in our enquiry form to connect.

We extend our gratitude to the incredible vendors who contributed to making this memorable event possible:

Florals: April & Fritz (@aprilandfritz)
Venue: Panama Dining Room (@thepanamadiningroom)
Hair & Make Up: Beth Haywood (@pepperbeth)
Cake: Not Just Cakes (@notjustcakes_)
Dress: Turkish Designer New Arrivals