Michael Shreves, an exuberant personality and the creative force behind the fantastically imaginative decorations at Enchanting Embellishments, 4732 McPherson Avenue, and the Mahler Ballroom, 4915 Washington Avenue, sadly passed away last month.
Michael was a larger-than-life character, whether posing as Santa Claus while handing out hot chocolate during annual Window Walk events, or channeling the Mad Hatter at Alice in Wonderland-themed tea parties at Mary Ann’s Tearoom (inside Enchanting Embellishments). Photo from 2017 above.
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The photos above were forwarded by CWEnder and Sales Associate Jan Kasalko who had known Shreves for years. Top: Shreves with Sales Associate Mary Ann Libbert at 2019’s Window Walk event, 
and below with actress Margaret “Tootie” O’Brien, who was in town for a special screening of Meet Me In St. Louis for Turner Classic Movies. “She loves tearooms and still stays in touch.”
Kasalko said, “Michael started preparing for Christmas months in advance, and Mary Ann and I were constantly sweeping up glitter.” Shreves would explain, “You have to make a mess before you can make things pretty.”
Michael Shreves was especially excited about this year’s candy shop holiday theme, shown above and below, and completed it shortly before he died.
Be sure to stop in and see Mrs. Claus Sweet Shoppe at Enchanting Embellishments, below, it’s utterly charming. 
The Enchanting Embellishments and Mahler Ballroom community and others who knew and loved Michael are devastated by the loss. A memorial service will be held at a later date.