Back in 2019, we had the great honor of working with Hallmark to throw an event for their “Countdown to Christmas” Thanksgiving day parade viewing party. We had the best time and couldn’t wait to do it all over again the next year. But alas, Covid reared it’s ugly head. This year, their party was BACK and we were the little elves running around the Porter House restaurant in Columbus Circle decking it out for Christmas. Oh…what fun!!
What’s unique about this party is that the theme is Christmas but the party is ON Thanksgiving. Makes our job pretty darn fun….

Hallmark invites their execs and families to attend this party where they enjoy brunch and have a perfect view of Columbus Circle where the parade goes around. There are toys, activities, crafts a hot cocoa and candy bar for the kids and there are cocktails and a photo booth for the adults. As a special surprise…Santa makes a visit with a bag full of goodies for the kids!

When the guests arrive, they wait in line to enter so we make sure they have the best first impression EVER. With an oversized, ornament filled arch, a Christmas tree and custom branded vinyls for all of the windows, there’s no confusion that they are at the right spot and the Countdown to Christmas has begun!

As they enter through the arch into the restaurant, there is flocked garland all over the rails, ceramic trees, cozy + festive pillows, wrapped gifts, twinkle lights galore and so much more. It’s the most magical scene you’ll ever witness on Thanksgiving!

Aside from the fun that we have designing this event and then working through the night (yes literally an all nighter!) to bring this Christmas magic to life, we get to work with the most wonderful clients and vendors.  The Hallmark team is a dream and our vendors are awesome.

Big shout out to our partners for helping make this event as fabulous as it was:

Venue: Porter House
Florals, Trees + Garlands: Harry J Design
Photobooth: Studio Z Photobooths 
Photographs: Amplified Stories
Balloon Artist: Melinda’s Children’s Parties

Now…let the Countdown to Christmas begin! Which movies have you watched…what will we like the best? Tell us your faves in the comments below!