Forty & Deserving
How my friends stepped in and planned a milestone birthday party I almost let slip by. 40 of the most important people in my life came to celebrate. They are the family I choose. The last two years of my life, through a particularly challenging season, these friends have cheered for me — loudly — every single step of the way.
A huge thank you to Katey Clark Creative for planning such a beautiful and thoughtful evening. Katey is not only one of the top event planners in Maryland, but she’s also a dear friend, which made the celebration feel even more special. Her attention to detail and creativity brought everything together so effortlessly, and every element of the night felt perfectly curated. I’m so grateful for the care and thought she put into making the evening so memorable.
My close friend Danielle DeVilbiss is truly the one who convinced me that I was worth celebrating, even during such a busy season of life. She helped with everything from sending out invites to coordinating the timing of the evening, and her support meant so much to me. She’s the kind of friend you hold close — thoughtful, encouraging, and always showing up in the moments that matter.
Karrie Cook was the true day-of coordinator extraordinaire. She stepped in to help manage all the details throughout the evening, making sure everything flowed seamlessly. Because of her, I was able to relax and fully enjoy the celebration. I’m so grateful for a friend like Karrie who brings such energy, organization, and joy to every moment.
Katey Clark Creative is truly one of the top event planning businesses in Maryland. Katey and her team have an incredible ability to bring events to life with thoughtful details, seamless organization, and beautiful design. Their professionalism and creativity make every celebration feel effortless and special. If you’re ever looking for an event planner, Katey Clark Creative and her team are absolutely incredible to work with. Below is her website. I highly recommend her!!
My birthday dinner at The Milton Inn was truly phenomenal. The chef created the most incredible menu and every course felt thoughtful and beautifully executed. Guests were welcomed with passed hors d’oeuvres like tomato and goat cheese on grilled baguette, mushroom with thyme crème fraîche, mini croque monsieur on brioche, and perfectly cooked steak skewers. The table was anchored by a gorgeous display of charcuterie et fromages, along with a “not so” raw bar featuring mini crab cakes, shrimp skewers, grilled oysters, and lobster. Everything was absolutely delicious and so beautifully presented. The sommelier and team provided exceptional service all evening, and our signature cocktails — Bees Knees and Espresso Martinis — were a huge hit. It was such a special night filled with amazing food, thoughtful hospitality, and the perfect atmosphere to celebrate.
The Milton Inn is one of the most special restaurants in the Baltimore area. Set in a beautifully restored historic stone estate in the countryside, it has so much charm and character while still feeling warm and welcoming. The food is incredible, with seasonal ingredients and thoughtful dishes that make every meal feel like an experience. It’s the kind of place that feels perfect for celebrating life’s big moments—and it truly makes any gathering feel unforgettable
Behind the camera: I’m so grateful to Kimberly Denn Photography for capturing the evening so beautifully. She has an incredible eye for detail and documented the entire night in such an effortless, natural way — from the food and candlelit tables to the candid moments with friends. Having these memories preserved so thoughtfully means so much.
Kimberly Denn is such a special photographer to work with. She has a beautiful way of capturing the real moments—the feelings, the energy, and all the little in-between memories that make an event so meaningful. Nothing feels overly posed or forced; it’s all about preserving how the day actually felt. If you want photos that are genuine, emotional, and truly timeless, she’s amazing to have behind the camera.
Florals by Crimson and Clover and Grace Rose Farms. Shop the decor I ordered for the party https://urlgeni.us/amzn/eLDQTS
Crimson & Clover did an incredible job transforming the bouquets into stunning arrangements that fit the space at The Milton Inn perfectly. They used the décor pieces I chose and truly brought my vision to life. The whole setting had such a beautiful equestrian, Ralph Lauren–inspired feel—elegant, warm, and so special.
If you’re looking for a florist for any event, Crimson & Clover is truly exceptional. Their designs feel both creative and sophisticated, and they have an incredible ability to transform flowers into arrangements that tell a story and elevate an entire space.
The bouquets from Grace Rose Farm were truly stunning and added so much beauty to my birthday celebration. Each arrangement was filled with lush, romantic roses and the most gorgeous colors. They made the day feel even more special and brought such an elegant touch to the whole party. I can’t recommend these flowers enough. The way the ship with so much care and arrive in perfect condition always amazes me.
Grace Rose Farm grows some of the most beautiful garden roses. What started as Gracie and Ryan planting hundreds of roses at their home quickly turned into something special when florists began asking for their blooms. Their roses are lush, romantic, and truly stunning—perfect for creating unforgettable arrangements.
Obsessed with these two dresses I wore.
Long-sleeve knit bodice meets flowing lace skirt—perfect for your next. Shop it here
Black embroidery meets crisp cotton—your new day-to-night go-to. Shop it here