“The Secret Garden Party is the beginning of many small get together to introduce speciality fairytale couture in a way that is accessible. These private gatherings are a wonderful oppertunity for any creative person to connect with their community.”
—Marianne Bell, Lost Lands Collections
THE PARTY
On brisk day in May, felicitious conversation can be caught on the zepherys coming off the coast. Amid a verdant garden and under dappeled sunlight, a small picnic is taking place. Several blankets have been laid out with light refreshments and pastel macaroons on a patinae tray. While sipping on lemonade from rosey hued glasses, guests delighted in an assortment of costumes awaiting their portrait session with the talented Marianne Bell.
The Collections
For those seeking dressings for the day, two garment racks of costumes framed the blankets. One rack offered a collection of diaphanous gowns and wings from designers including Selkie, French Meadows, and Enjoue Collectif. The other—casting vibrant prisms in the afternoons sun—featured glittering crystal epaulettes and corsets crafted by Elizabeth and Abigail from Haus of Junon. Marianne had invited the twin sisters as special guests to adorn attendees in their crystal creations.
Decor and small props for the day featured a vibrant monarch butterfly, whimsical plush moth, an antique dagger, and an art nouveau hand mirror.
THE GARDEN: HARKNESS STATE PARK
A majestic estate encircled by formal gardens, greenhouses, and a sprawling landscape is nestled off the coast of Connecticut. The renaissance revival mansion, Eolia, was the backdrop and the surrounding landscaping the “secret garden.”
The coastal estate was originally constructed in 1907 as the summer home for philanthropists Edward and Mary Harkness. The gardens surrounding the home where designed by landscape architect, Beatrix Jones Farrad, and brought to life from 1918-1929. The breadth of Beatrix’s accomplishments and her influence on landscape design are profound. To find out more about her extraordinary achievements as a designer the beginning of the 20th century, watch a short documenatry on Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame.
During the day we enjoyed columns draped in ivy, artful hedges, and blooming spring flower beds all artfully restored and preserved by the Friends of Harkness. Support or become a friend of the park by visiting: https://www.friendsofharkness.org/
Lost LaNDS COLLECTIONS FINE ART PHOTOS
In the world of fantasy portraiture, Marianne Bell of Lost Lands Collections is truly extraordinary. Drawing on vintage cinematography, fairytales, and classical art, she delights not only in capturing moments, but handcrafting wardrobe and props for her shoots. A published photographer with images featured in Vogue Italia, Marianne’s eye for small details, color, and texture add depth to her hazy dreamings—inviting those who behold her images into an eleborate reverie.
Below are portraits courtesy of Marianne and taken at the garden party featuring @MelanieRosebud, @Frill_and_Forest, @_Quinnasauras, @CleoNoelleMusic, and @Larplet.
NOTES ON THE DAY
A note on the day from @Larplet :
“What I really loved about that day was the opportunity to meet other people who keep a special place in their hearts for fantasy. People who, like me, embrace the magic and whimsy that can be found in life. It was wonderful to make connections with others and create something together. Often I create alone and, while I can make some lovely things, there is something about a shared creation which multiplies the joy. As for fantasy, what greater escape is there? To know in our hearts that there is something precious within each of us and to let others see it dressed up and sparkling in the sunlight. It’s very freeing. ”
Behind the Seams: A Silver Stag
Behind the seams of my renaissance silver stag costume—the inspiration, construction, and fantasy
Video coming soon!
SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE EVENTS
Explore upcoming Lost Land Collections Events and subscribe to the Fantastigal Calendar below:
Lost Lands Collections | Picnic at Hanging Rock
"Join us for a magical picnic this summer inspired by the novel "Picnic at Hanging Rock" and a sprinkle of fantasy." Discover more at https://www.lostlandscollectionsllc.com/picngcathangingrock
FANTASTIGAL DISCLAIMER:
Fantastigal purchased a full price ticket and attended the event as an attendee. Fantastigal was not affiliated with Lost Lands Collection for this event.
