Organizing a Rustic Gatsby-Inspired New Year's Eve Bash That Leaves Impressions
In case you've forgotten, it's the Roaring '20s once again. With everyone's fondness for all things retro and unique, from home decor to clothing style, now is the perfect time to embody this ambiance and spirit into an unforgettable New Year's Eve bash that F. Scott Fitzgerald himself could only envision.
Fully committing to a theme like this takes your guests on a journey away from contemporary stressors, even for just one evening, providing a foundation to create an event they will never forget.
Putting together a party that makes your guests feel like they've traveled back in time takes careful planning and attention to detail. From the layout of your space to the food you serve, each element can elevate the evening. Expert event planners and designers share their top tips for hosting a flawless vintage New Year's Eve celebration.
- Hank Stampfl, CEO and founder of event planning company Revel Rouge
- Andy King, founder of Andy King Events and sustainable event specialist
- Mercedes Feller, vice president of merchandising at Balsam Hill
Creating an Atmosphere for a Retro Party
Create a Dramatic Entrance
To captivate your guests right away, decorate your grand entrance with a stylish photo op. This could be as simple as hanging a vintage-inspired banner on an empty wall or using floral arrangements for extra impact. You can also greet your guests with a welcome tray filled with themed cocktails and mocktails to help them get into the party spirit.
Capture the Moment with Old-School Photography
To encourage guests to stay present and truly embrace the vintage era, ask them to leave their cell phones at the door and provide Polaroid or disposable cameras instead. Encourage them to snap photos throughout the evening, preserving memories that will remind them of their magical evening.
Encourage Dressing the Part
Setting a dress code and encouraging guests to dress accordingly can help add an authentic touch to your party photos. The dress code can be elegant or whimsical, but according to Hank Stampfl, CEO and founder of event planning company Revel Rouge, clothing can be a powerful tool for transforming your guests.
"If you really want to elevate the energy to another level, encourage your invited guests to dress in vintage style," he says. "A wig or a fun accessory can reveal a side of your guests you never knew existed."
Make Use of Decorative Touches
Table settings are an opportunity to add a touch of decadence to your party.
"Don't be afraid to go all out when it comes to decorating your table," Stampfl says. "Tall floral arrangements, velvet bows, candle sticks, and textured glassware are all great options for setting the tone."
If you're looking to add a vintage touch to your decor without breaking the bank, consider shopping secondhand. Local thrift stores or antique shops can offer unique items that fit your style and theme. Alternatively, vintage-inspired goods can often be found in unexpected places, like local markets rob CB2.
Balsam Hill also offers a Roaring Twenties ornament collection that can help you create a festive atmosphere.
"Intricate designs can transport your guests back to another era," says Mercedes Feller, vice president of merchandising at Balsam Hill. "Adding Champagne Glitter Trees and sparkling fairy light curtains to your decor can create a magical atmosphere that sets the tone for the evening."
Utilize All Senses to Transport Guests
To fully immerse your guests in a vintage atmosphere, engage all of their senses. Music is a crucial element of a successful party, and vintage-style jazz bands or sultry dancers can help create an authentic and enchanting atmosphere. Consider offering themed dance lessons to encourage guests to participate and get into the vibe.
Food and drink can also play a big role in setting the tone for your party. Offering vintage-inspired cocktails and canapes can help create a sense of nostalgia and add to the overall atmosphere.
Smell is another important sense to consider. Use scented candles or essential oils that evoke the era to fill the room with a nostalgic aroma.
Ultimately, the key to creating an unforgettable vintage New Year's Eve party is to immerse yourself in the spirit of the era and let your creativity run wild. By incorporating vintage-inspired decor, music, and dress, guests will feel like they've traveled back in time and entered a remarkable world.
And undeniably, no soiree would be whole without food and beverages. For a retro-themed gathering, traditional drinks (including non-alcoholic variations) are the star attractions. Situated in NYC, Stampfl prefers a Manhattan and vows it'll invigorate and heat up all your guests. The cocktail emerged in 1870 at the Manhattan Club and continues to impress today. Serve it in a captivating etched martini glass, embellish with Woodford Reserve Bourbon Cherries, and to truly astonish your attendees, top it off with a tantalizing smoke bubble burst.
King suggests keeping the cuisine straightforward: Opt for trusted recipes, particularly for larger gatherings, and pair cherished appetizers like hard-boiled eggs with timeless main courses. Regarding aesthetics, your serving ware is just as crucial to the event as the food itself. Who wouldn't love a mouthwatering chocolate mousse served in a wine goblet?
Seeking Assistance
Remember, you don't need to shoulder all the responsibility on your own. If you're not a whiz in the kitchen, order food or hire a caterer. Even if you take care of all the preparation yourself, think of ways to secure some additional help during the party so you can participate in the festivities as well. Engaging a skilled bartender and server can enhance the evening and alleviate a significant portion of the stress.
Ultimately, although it's simple to concentrate on the decorations and beverages and minor details, those aren't what make your gathering a memorable one.
"I will always remember a quote that Julia Child shared with me: 'It's not what you set on the table that assures a successful dinner party, it's who you put in the seats,'" King says. "So ensure to invite an entertaining ensemble of guests."
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In alignment with the vintage theme, you could incorporate the following sentences:
- To set the perfect mood for your Roaring Twenties New Year's Eve party, consider playing some popular tunes from 'BHG' (Better Homes & Gardens)'s vintage playlist to create an atmosphere reminiscent of the '20s.
- As the clock strikes midnight, you could ring in the New Year with a traditional 'News Year’s' Eve countdown and a sparkling cocktail, such as a champagne cocktail made with 'BHG' (Better Homes & Gardens)'s edible glitter for an added touch of holiday entertaining fun.
