Weddings celebrate the idea of everlasting love, but golden anniversaries celebrate the reality of it. After 50 years of marriage, a party was held in the honor of Tien and Yen Bui. Their son, Thomas Bui of Thomas Bui Lifestyle, designed the fête for his beloved parents. “Since they got married in the fall, we incorporated more fall-inspired colors,” he explains of the aesthetic that featured a burnt orange, burgundy, red, green, and taupe brown palette.

The main décor elements were in the form of autumnal arches and even trees. Tables featuring gold borders with crystal embellishments were combined to create one long banquet for the 120 guests. Due to the lush design throughout the space, centerpieces were kept low and simple, consisting of white blossoms and greenery.

“As guests made their way down the marble staircases, candles and trees welcomed them into the ballroom,” Thomas explains. Though the soirée was in sunny San Diego, the fall foliage on the indoor trees was as vibrant as is seen on the East Coast. The entrance immediately set the tone for a warm and loving occasion. 

“Since they got married in the fall, we incorporated more fall-inspired colors.”

Entertainment was a big focus for the party. Not only was a live band hired to play music, but also a multitude of unique performers delighted and dazzled the crowd. Dancers with colorful peacock costumes had fabric wings to spin and twirl.

A contortionist impressed guests with her flexibility and returned to the floor with a male performer so they could showcase their acrobatic dancing. Rhythmic gymnastics were also on display with the help of a hoop and a ribbon baton. All the dancers got together for one last performance and confetti dropped from the ceiling during the last song. 

In addition to a full dessert table for attendees to enjoy, there was a beautiful five-tier cake adorned with pink flowers and greenery. On top was a small bouquet of blush and red roses with ivy in a gold stand. The confection was displayed on a bed of snowy blossoms. Among the blooms was a special touch – a framed black-and-white photo of Yen and Tien on their wedding day, 50 years before.