Resort Chic

Resort chic style is casual and breezy, but plenty chic.

WET at W Atlanta - Midtown is a rooftop pool with views of the Atlanta skyline, private cabanas and chaise lounges. Being inspired by the outdoors and clear blue pool, Michelle designed this space using greens, whites, and golds with pops of blues.

The party continued into the Living Room's Forbidden Garden where the luxe space seamlessly transitions from inside to the patio with a unique wrap around bar.

"We created a backdrop using white and gold balloons with monstera leaves for guests to snap photos in between fresh cocktails and delicious light fare," says Michelle. This resort chic party would be perfect for an afternoon with friends that's equal parts swank and relaxing.

"I attend and shoot a lot of parties and events in the summer and fall seasons and noticed that the guests enjoy getting dressed up just as much as the hosts! I love seeing the attendees enjoy the venue's ambience and interact with any Instagrammable backgrounds and any fun props, food or activities included at the event. They always make for fun and authentic event photos," says photographer, Mecca Gamble McConnell. Always remember to clean your phone's camera of fingerprints and take the time to find good light and the best angle. Don't be afraid to practice in the mirror at home.

Models:

Russell Wendell

Eric Ryles

Amer Woods

Girls' Night Cocktail Party

There's nothing like a night out with your girls, dressed up with your favorite pair of heels. The goal was to design the ultimate girls' night cocktail party with exciting colors, plenty of patterns, and unique accessories.

The setting of the W Atlanta - Midtown's Living Room provided the perfect bohemian backdrop and for event planner Michelle, it was exactly what the doctor ordered. "Plush velvet seating in an intimate setting surrounded by collections of art, animals, and books gave plenty of eye candy," she shared. "My favorite element was the Hidden Lounge where we created a vibrant balloon display in shades of pink with pops of gold. I love creating surprises for guests at our events, which make for unforgettable memories."

Based on the setting of choice, the stylist of the shoot Jasmene Bowdry felt like themes that echoed versatility, class, and femininity were in order. She revealed, "Living coral, the pantone color of the year, is vibrant and embraces warmth and comfort. The caped jumpsuit look is perfect for events where you may have to showcase the 'boss chick' vibe while still retaining a little sexiness. Finally, green is a perfect color for late summer/ fall parties where you want to stand out like a gem and be seen!"

Makeup artist Robin Hill, who did the makeup for the models in both the Resort Chic shoot and the Cocktail Night shoot, believes the key to a bomb makeup look is timelessness and staying power. "My favorite go-to products for the perfect glow and long-wearing foundation is Estée Lauder's Double Wear Foundation, Skin Glass by Noorface, and I can't forget my favorite nude, Velvet by MAC Cosmetic."

Girls' Cocktail Night Models:

Kimberly Cherrell

Maya Elious

Amer Woods

Black Tie Affair

A Black Tie event always means the ultimate level of sophistication. The Overlook Foyer with W Atlanta Midtown's statement gold cages as a backdrop created a whole mood for the tablescape.

They designed a dramatic estate table with a luxe black lace linen, ivory gold rim chargers, and lush white flowers. Deep shades of emerald extended from the table to the stunning guest, Quiana Watson, who was adorned in Charbel Zoe Couture from Elite Pour La Vie.

Black Tie is usually reserved for special occasions but it's nice to have a reason to go all out every once in awhile.

Black Tie Affair Models:

Quiana Watson

Anthony Watson (husband)

Credits:

• Photography: Mecca Gamble McConnell
• Planning + Design: Lemiga Events
• Venue, Catering + Cocktails: W Atlanta Midtown
• Styling: Jasmene Bowdry of SHIFT StyleHouse
• Floral Design: Akeem Clayton
• Balloons: MomsKloset
• Rentals: Georgia Party Rentals
• Linen: I Do Linens
• Men's Attire: The Modern Gent
• Black Tie Gown: Elite Pour La Vie
• Makeup (Resort & Cocktail): Robin Hill
• Makeup (Black Tie): Kiara Harris
• Hair: Lauren Jacobs
• Jewelry & Accessories: Out The Box and Love Peridot