Throwback to an Incredible International Cruise Party
When Ashley is asked about one of her favorite events, she often recalls the incredible experience of producing a private surprise 50th birthday celebration through Europe—a journey that combined luxury, adventure, and seven days of meticulously crafted white glove service through the Mediterranean. This wasn’t your typical birthday party; it was a curated experience spanning France, Italy, and Spain, filled with surprises, world-class entertainment, and unforgettable events in some of Europe’s most beautiful destinations.
Hosted on the upscale Seabourn Legend, a 208-passenger, all-suite ship, the journey began in Monte Carlo and visited charming locations like St. Tropez, Barcelona, and Portofino, before disembarking in Civitavecchia, Italy. A few final days in Rome capped off an incredible week, with each port offering curated experiences for the guest of honor.
Curated Experiences at Every Stop
With ports of call as varied and scenic as Monte Carlo and Portofino, this event provided a stunning backdrop for every carefully crafted moment. Each location presented a unique opportunity to celebrate with style, offering guests memorable experiences from dinners on French terraces to intimate lunches surrounded by Spanish art.
Nice, France: A dinner overlooking the Mediterranean Sea on the terrace at Hotel Méditerranée.
Barcelona, Spain: An elegant lunch surrounded by art at the Miro Foundation.
Portofino, Italy: A sophisticated dinner at the historic La Cervara Abbey, nestled in Italy’s stunning Ligurian coast.
Lucca, Italy: A romantic, private dinner at Villa Oliva, bringing a taste of Italian luxury to the event.
Entertainment & Ambiance
The entertainment was a major highlight of the journey, with legendary artists like Ashford & Simpson, The Neville Brothers, Bebe Winans, and Salvador Santana transforming each evening into a memorable celebration. Guests enjoyed world-class music under the Mediterranean sun, blending entertainment with the destination's culture.
International Event Planning: Unique Logistics & Attention to Detail
Planning an event across international borders requires a unique level of coordination, from managing travel logistics to ensuring smooth transitions between countries. With passports, customs requirements, and a combination of different requirements between sea & land to consider, international events demand meticulous planning and an in-depth understanding of each destination’s regulations and protocols.
In addition to navigating the logistics, international events require an awareness of local customs and traditions to ensure that each element is culturally respectful and aligned with local practices. Working closely with venues and local partners to secure permits, respect cultural norms, and honor each country’s unique character is essential to creating an authentic and welcoming event.
Arriving early is also key, as it gives the event team time to acclimate, adjust to the local time zone, and finalize on-site details. This pre-event preparation ensures that every aspect of the experience runs smoothly for guests, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the event without interruptions.
Ashley’s favorite event shows how successful an event can be when careful planning meets a sense of adventure. With beautiful Mediterranean views and amazing cultural experiences at every stop, this birthday bash was more than just a celebration—it proved how powerful a well-thrown event can be.