A Complete Guide To Hosting A '20s-Themed House Party
At the close of the 18th century the Gilded Age of opulence and economic boom gave way to the Jazz Age in America, a movement intertwining varied musical genres and the flapper culture with the sophistication of the society. This was the period when guests crouched in speakeasies and gilded soirees were the most coveted social invitations.
Today, the Jazz Age is widely celebrated in popular culture, with F Scott Fitzgerald’s novel (and its iconic screen adaptations), The Great Gatsby, becoming a template of all that was grand and ostentatious, yet elusive and mysterious. A Gatsby soiree makes for an interesting party theme — it’s all about flappers and speakeasies, velvet and satin, sequins and shimmer, that pay homage to the 1920s.
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But how does one host a Gastby/speakeasy party for friends to enjoy a slice of such magnificent, secret soirees? Read on for some quick tips!
Exclusive Entry
A speakeasy is a dim-lit place whose location is always secret. While hosting a 1920s party, ask guests for a password at the door. Such a party is about a cultural intermingling so a speakeasy theme means the bibliophile, the cinephile and the mathematician, all go to the same party. Send out invites befitting the theme and make the run-up to the event that much more interesting.
Flapper Attire
The 1920s were all about straight style, sleeveless dresses, bobbed hair, feather boas and make-up. If one is hosting a Gatsby style soiree, guests have to look dapper to create the suitable vibe. Fringe dresses, three-piece suits (though in the summer heat, creative liberties can be taken with this requirement) and fedoras are perfect for Gatsby night.
Dim Decor
Either opt for a sophisticated, glamorous ambience or a more nuanced speakeasy style for this soiree. The 1920s speakeasies were dark rooms so light candles or dim yellow bulbs and set up small, intimate tables where guests can converse in low tones. Remember, the decor of a speakeasy has to be low-key; here one talks low and trades information.
Classic Cocktails
Pay homage to the 1920s with cocktails that were featured in Jay Gatsby's story. At a flapper gathering, serve cocktails like the Mint Julep, Gin Rickey, Planter’s Punch and other drinks made during this bygone age. Keep in store 750 ml bottles of gin and dark rum to make these cocktails. Also buy a 750 ml bottle of whisky to pour a 30 ml dram for guests who prefer this spirit.
Hors d’œuvres
At such a party, serve excellent food. For the soiree however, bite-sized food is a good fit — so pass around mezze platters, olives or shrimp cocktails and snacks that can be eaten with minimum fuss.
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Play Jazz Music
The 1920s was a time when jazz flourished. Combining African traditions, blues and swing, jazz made the 1920s one of the most glorious musical age in America. Jazz performers were given a stage in speakeasies where customers immersed themselves in music and conversation. So, such a party reimagining this vibe would have to feature 1920s blues, jazz and music from movies which mark this era.
Parting Thoughts…
A speakeasy themed soiree is about hosting an evening with an exclusive guest list. Arrange for warm, yellow dimmers, drinks and soft, mellow jazz to create an ambience synonymous with Gatsby's parties.
Drink Responsibly. This communication is for audiences above the age of 25.
