European Market Setup with a Tangy Twist!
When life gives you lemons… try oranges! That was the spirit of our latest event with Marriott International | St. Regis Longboat Key Resort — a citrus-inspired welcome reception that transported guests straight into a sun-drenched European market.
Surrounded by an oversized citrus tree, vintage market carts, slatted walls, and a vibrant bar, attendees wandered through a lively scene bursting with color and flavor. Instead of money, guests “traded” for fresh pastries, orange and lemon juices, and other delightful treats — creating an immersive experience as refreshing as it was memorable.
A Starter Tray in Bloom
Right at the center of Astor Ballroom 3 stood our iconic Citrus Arboretum Tree — a client favorite and undeniable showstopper. This oversized installation, stretching over 12 feet wide, was a feast for the eyes. Bright oranges nestled in lush greenery on a warm, orange-hued structure, with eight swinging trays hanging from its branches, each filled with fresh pastries, citrus bites, and floral-wrapped treats.
Playful and unexpected, this vibrant centerpiece wasn’t just décor — it set the tone for the event with a burst of flavor, color, and whimsy. Rooted in ferns and full of energy, it instantly became a favorite photo spot and a delicious conversation starter.
Get Ready to Trade at the Market
Next, guests moved on to the St. Regis Fruit Market — styled like an upscale farm stand with a citrus twist. Rustic wood backdrops, string lights, tropical greenery, and pops of bright color created a relaxed, resort-inspired vibe that felt both charming and fresh.
Sleek wooden carts and shelves displayed fresh juices, bite-sized treats, and colorful produce, all inviting guests to explore and indulge. A cheeky sign at the center read: “When life gives you lemons, try our premium quality oranges.” This playful market stand blended flavor, freshness, and the nostalgia of old-town trading culture, sparking sensory memories for everyone present.
Adding to the atmosphere, a Citrus Market Cart filled with real and faux fruit encouraged guests to mingle among buckets of lemons and oranges, with the refreshing scent of citrus hanging in the air — thanks to fresh fruit accents thoughtfully provided by the hotel.
Scattered throughout the room, small citrus vignettes of wooden crates filled with fruit, vines, and candles softened corners into cozy, photo-worthy nooks. These little details reminded everyone how thoughtful touches can transform a space.
The Slat Back Bar: Style Meets Function
No morning event is complete without an eye-catching refreshment station, and the Slat Back Bar did not disappoint. Crafted with natural wood tones and inset crates for extra flair and function, this bar was both a design feature and a beverage hub.Edison bulbs hung overhead, casting warm, flattering light and turning the corner into a relaxed early-morning lounge. Whether guests were grabbing a mimosa or savoring fresh juices served from glass dispensers surrounded by citrus accents, the ambiance felt effortlessly connected to the overall theme. Request A Proposal
Tables That Lit the Room
The design extended beyond the walls and carts. Our custom Lighted Slat Communal Tables became instant hits. Featuring horizontal wood slats with hidden lighting inside, these tables glowed warmly from within, gently illuminating the surrounding area.Paired with bright orange metal barstools, the setup was vibrant, functional, and thoroughly thematic — seating up to eight guests per table while adding a playful pop of color that reinforced the citrus concept in a modern way. Request A Proposal
Lush Greenery and Natural Accents
To keep the space feeling fresh and grounded, we incorporated a mix of tropical and timeless foliage: Adonidia palm trees, Peace lilies, and ferns arranged in thoughtfully curated clusters throughout the ballroom.These green elements softened the wood and metal textures and echoed the natural tones of the citrus theme. More importantly, they helped balance the space, transforming it from just a styled photo op into an inviting environment where guests could truly relax and linger. Request A Proposal
A One-Hour Event That Left a Lasting Impression
With only 60 minutes and 70 guests to impress, this event was a lesson in intentionality. Every element was carefully chosen — from guiding foot traffic and sparking connections to simply making someone smile.This proves you don’t need an all-day program or massive crowd to make a big impact. With smart planning, strong visuals, and immersive storytelling, even an early morning welcome reception can feel like a mini vacation.
From statement pieces like the Citrus Tree to functional beauties like the lit communal tables, every detail helped tell the story. The secret? Layering texture, light, and flow to guide guests seamlessly through the space — leaving them refreshed, engaged, and eager for more.
Want to bring this kind of magic to your next event? We’d love to help you craft something unforgettable. Contact us now for a personalized consultation!Request A Proposal
