Monday, September 29, 2008

Nerd Alert!

A few months ago, I was chatting with Kelly over at Bright and casually mentioned that I had some ideas for a new display table at the aforementioned event gallery. I was ecstatic with the level of enthusiasm this was met with, and even happier when the girls let me see out my idea in the form of the August display table.

My concept was born out of a desire to see something that is not traditionally associated with style and turn it into something cool. The "something" in this case was science, particularly Chemistry.
I recall many a late night sitting at the kitchen table with my dad as he patiently explained (for the bazillionth time) how to write out and balance chemical equations. I never considered my Chemistry classes to be anything but horrible graduation requirements. I'm still not the first person you'd want to ask about atomic weights or inorganic compounds, but I do look back now and appreciate the struggles because I know in the long run it made me a better student. And it made my dad one helluva teacher. 
So here it is, my stylish tribute to science. Or as I like to call it, Geek Chic.
No science-inspired table display would be complete without the periodic table of elements. 
I found some great visuals online and recreated the chart on metallic paper with black and green ink. The name itself is a play on words. Please be seated at The Periodic Table. I can just see my high school chem teacher's eyes light up.
 
The look of the table revolved around a palate of greens, black and white with lots of clear glass. The centerpiece candlesticks (used as vases above) came from CB2. You can get your own right here. Erlenmeyer flasks filled with green candies served as a cool favor. These are also a fantastic alternative to a traditional vase. 
 
I dug out one of my favorite Einstein quotes, printed it on sheer vellum and laid it over a cool graphic patterned paper for the menus. It reads: "gravitation cannot be held responsible for people falling in love." The plates came from Tri Rentals. I kind of want them for myself.
Special thanks to Harrison Hurwitz for these lovely images, and to the Bright girls for allowing me to bring this idea to life. 

2 comments:

erin said...

I love it...I'm married to one of those science nerds, you know.

Anonymous said...

I love this! My boyfriend and I met in Chemistry Lab and it would be fantastic to have a science theme if we get married. I'm glad you did this - At least I know this Geek Chic style of creativity is out there!