For this week's Haute Hostess post I was feeling a little lost – usually I begin the writing process with a theme in mind, but not this one. I looked to People Newspapers staff writer (and great friend) Caitlin Adams for inspiration. "What kind of bridal shower would you want if I was to throw you one this month?" I asked the single (read: in a committed relationship) lady. Her one word response sent me into a whirl of inspiration: "GATSBY."
The glamorous styles of the 1920's are back thanks to shows like HBO's Boardwalk Empire and Baz Luhrmann's movie remake of F. Scott Fitzgerald's cult-classic The Great Gatsby. These flapper and dandy lifestyles seeped into popular culture, becoming an inspiration for art and clothing and bridal fashions (check it out on the runway of Reem Acra Fall 2013). The sparkling sophistication 1920's New York, which includes over the glitz, glam, and Prohibition era clothing, is our inspiration for a Great Gatsby bridal shower. An important key to pulling off this theme is the art deco theme (read: flapper dresses with long strings of pearls, rhinestone headpieces and a gramophone playing the Charleston). Ask your guests to come in costume – not only will this make a fabulous photo opportunity, but also take the theme an extra mile. Are you ready to take your bride back to the Prohibition era? Follow the jump to read more.
The Location:
It's time to party like it's 1929! Speakeasy style can be introduced into any location – but I suggest throwing this shower under the open sky. String up some gold lights (a la Highland Park Village) to add a little sparkle to any location. While the newly opened Kennedy Room is decorated with the décor of the 1960's, it could easily be transformed into a 1920's speakeasy with a little creativity. Their huge porch, which faces Stanley Korshak, is definitely a plus on warm spring and summer nights. For decorations, stick to black, white and mixed metals. Gold and silver will not only add a touch of opulence to your scene, but also reflect beautiful sparkles from the golden lights.
The Food:
Serve your fare, which should consist of fabulous finger food, on gold-rimmed plates to add a little bit of sparkle and elegance to the place settings (P.O.S.H. Couture Rentals can provide you with the all the plates, glasses and tablecloths you need). While the usual suspects of bridal shower food work out perfectly with this theme (tea sandwiches, Caesar salad and miniature appetizers), add a touch of class with Sissy's Southern Kitchen's deviled eggs topped with caviar. The drinks are a perfect place to get creative – this was the prohibition era, after all! Sweet tea and lemonade are perfect for non-drinkers, while fun specialty cocktails should be named after the emblematic characters of The Great Gatsby.
The Activities:
Since your guests will be dressed to the nines in their best flapper (or dandy!) apparel, a photo booth is the perfect way to document is special bridal event. Accessories for the old-timey photo booth could include rhinestone headdresses with attached veil, elegant top hats, fake cigarette holders. Photos should be developed in sepia or black and white for an extra old world effect.
Another fabulous activity for this grandur bridal shower would be teaching your aptly costumed guests a dance of the times, the Charleston. Consisting of only eight steps (which is about six too many for me, if I'm being honest), it's the perfect way to get your guests in the mood.
The Favors:
Besides printouts from the photo booth, why not give a gift that will remind your guests of the perfect theme – their very own copy of The Great Gatsby! My favorite copy, published by Scribner, features the cover of the first edition in 1925 and is available at Barnes and Noble. Is it appropriate to also suggest adorable flasks from Anne Taintor from Betty Lou as a party favor? Definitely, I mean, this was the prohibition era after all.
Margaux Anbouba is a D Weddings Intern.
Margaux Anbouba 23 Feb, 2013
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Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/dmagazine/bridalbuzz/~3/dQkS5QF8ndI/
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