Wedding inspiration can come from anywhere – couples and wedding professionals may be inspired by the color palette of their favorite store, a television show or play, nature, and so much more. Many couples planning their nuptials may also be inspired by other types of events, such as this debutante ball for three best friends and honorees in Houston, Texas, planned by Ann Whittington Events. 

While most weddings stray away from too much of a true theme that a gala or birthday party may otherwise have, for example, the events leading up to the big day can offer wonderful opportunities to plan an event with a theme that would have been too strong for either the ceremony or reception. Consider your engagement party, bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, welcome party, or even an after-party to fulfill all of your event dreams.

If you and your beloved have always wanted to have a vibrant, Moroccan-themed celebration that whisks your loved ones away to the heart of Morocco, this striking black-tie event offers endless ideas and inspiration. "We used very bold jewel-tone colors throughout the country club, accented with gold vases and candles – and a touch of silver!" shares Ann Whittington of the overall design scheme. 

As guests made their way into the country club, the entrance was embellished with hanging lanterns to set the tone immediately. The first space attendees experienced was designed to look like an Old World market, where they were invited to select hats, bracelets, and brightly colored necklaces and shoes to fit the theme. Once inside the ballroom, comfortable seating with colorful, oversized pillows provided relaxing areas for friends and family to mix and mingle, along with brightly hued tablescapes.

The design of the celebration was bold, exquisite, and daring, ultimately setting the tone for debutante balls and other celebrations to come in the area and beyond. Centerpieces and floral arrangements displayed lively jewel-toned flowers – including hot pink peonies and hydrangeas, free spirit roses, deep purple stock, lisianthus blooms, and snapdragons, flame calla lily blooms, orange dahlias and orchids, monstera leaves, and hanging amaranthus for additional greenery – as well as Moroccan lanterns and metallic votives. 

In addition to the gorgeous florals and décor throughout the ballroom, festive fabric banners were suspended overhead and a Moroccan-print dance floor welcomed everyone to celebrate all night long. "When you do a bold theme like this, you really have to go all out in the design element to make it feel as though you were transported to Morocco," Whittington adds of the planning process. Take a look at the photos in the slideshow above, as well as the images below, to be inspired for your pre-wedding events or after-party!