Illustrated Table Markers for a Buenos Aires Themed Fundraising Gala
Table marker signs serve a practical purpose; ensuring guests sit in the right place. But on this twinkly night, they were also part of the storytelling.
The event was a fundraiser for a theatre and my illustrated table markers were tailored to the theme: Buenos Aires and the mood of a sultry tango supper club. The decor was rich but refined: berry reds, soft sage greens, lush fabrics and jewel-toned floral arrangements. I collaborated closely with the designer and marketing team to make sure my illustrations sat comfortably within this visual world - picking up the event’s colour palette and helping everything feel considered and cohesive.
Functionally, the table marker designs had to be bold, high-contrast, and instantly legible- even in slinky, atmospheric lighting. But more than that, they had to guide guests to their seats with zero fuss; no awkward reshuffles or quiet detours from the wrong premium, table thank-you-very-much! Clear signs meant a smooth, relaxed start to the evening.
I brought warmth and personality to the designs through vintage textures and eclectic, handcrafted lettering; a style that helped shift the focus away from any sense of pecking order in the seating allocation. Instead, each table became a small celebration of a different cultural theme relating to Buenos Aires: it was an inspired choice by the client to name the seating tiers after neighbourhoods. My love of exploring cultural themes and motifs in sensitive, non-clichéd ways complemented this thoughtful approach, placing emphasis on character and interest rather than hierarchy.
Inspired by the square format of the table markers, and nostalgic Tango vinyl covers on my research-travels, I embraced a mid-century modern illustration style with retro record sleeve vibes. This timeless cue captures a night-time allure, reminiscent of an innovative design era, forever linked to music, theatre, and dance- a perfect language for the event’s theme and sure to to click with the client's cultured guest list.
Finally, and perhaps above all else, the client needed the evening to strike a delicate balance between celebration and restraint. They wanted to thank their generous sponsors and treat them to a fun, memorable experience, but through creativity and consideration instead of spendy extravagance.
This is where illustration comes into its own, adding uniqueness and depth without being flashy. In this project, my style wasn’t just an aesthetic choice, it became part of the message: that luxury doesn’t have to shout. And that was exactly what the client wanted: table markers that were not only practical, but also sensitively custom illustrated for their gala event.
Ultimately, the night didn’t end at the table- it ended with a dance. And the quicker the guests found their seats, the sooner the party began!
Interested in custom illustrations that bring your event to life? Let’s collaborate!