21st Birthday Party: Modern vs Retro
I was contacted by Alan and his wife to organise a party for their sons 21st birthday party in 7 weeks time. Apart from choosing a date nothing had been arranged, invariably I organise parties in short lead times and I instantly knew what suppliers were suited for their needs. Charlie wanted his immediate family and close friends at the party so although numbers were low he wanted everyone to feel special.
The first call I made was to the wonderful Highfield Event Marquees, I knew the quality of marquee would be perfect and they have a team I trust immensely. We decided to use the back lawn which gave a beautiful view of the house and gardens.
Again knowing that quality of food and service was so important I decided that Milsoms Catering were the perfect choice. Their food is not only delicious but is presented impeccably as well. When guests arrived they made their way to the sculpture gardens where drinks and canapés were provided.
Champagne for welcome drinks
Canapés as guests arrive
Mini fish n chips
I wanted to create a modern and contemporary design for Charlie’s party, nothing too feminine and once key suppliers were on board I contacted Kelly from white cottage weddings to explain the brief. As always they were fantastic at interpreting my ideas into something tangible! (despite having weddings in their name they have designed lots of my party stationery this year). Because the table plan was last minute Kelly suggested a more interchangeable name card system where we could change the tables they were on if needed.
Table Plan signage
For the interior decor of the marquee I decided on flat lining, white carpet, silver linen and ghost chairs to reinforce the modern and contemporary feel. Jades Flowers provided large tropical leaves in the centre of the tables as we felt flowers would be too feminine. Each guest had a menu wrap with their chosen meal and a name tag attached which again was designed by White Cottage Weddings.
Green and silver party design
Foliage for a party
In this room we also had a circular white bar which at night was lit up in green. As always James from Wedding Creative provided all the lighting and production for me.
In the evening a reveal curtain was removed to show a more retro psychedelic dance tent, this then led into a games room complete with pool table and pinball machines! When I met with James from Wedding Creative to discuss the design I cheekily asked “so if I wanted slinkies hanging from the ceiling can you do it?” after looking at me as if I was crazy he happily obliged. Is it wrong to say I thought they looked darn amazing on the night! I hired Mighty Fine DJ’s to provide a hiphop DJ upon Charlies request.
When everyone were all danced out they spent the night in Bell tents from Events Under Canvas!
A big thank you to all my suppliers that came together quickly to create an amazing party. And thank you to Tom Tomlin for super photos – as always.
“I just wanted to say how brilliant your organisation and choice was for the party. The marquee, the bar, the space invaders machine (a particular favourite of mine!), the flowers (or rather, leaves), the DJ, and especially the food, for me, literally could not have been better! All this and I didn’t have to lift a finger, which is very unusual for me! Thank you – we had a lovely time!” Alan & Joy
If you are interested in learning more about our party planning service please pop onto our website where you can see additional previous celebrations. Its not too late to get in touch should you wish to organise a christmas or new years eve party.