When you get a whole grip of event planners in one setting, you better believe that party is going to be a masterpiece. And masterpiece The Planners Affair is. Started as way to get together fellow wedding creatives, Adriana Marie Events + Pop The Cork Designs, threw a gorgeous outdoor party for all their industry friends captured by Bonnie Sen and Adora Wedding Films. Plus, they're breaking down the 5 rules you can totally ditch when it comes to throwing a beautiful get together.
Planned by Adriana Marie Events and Pop the Cork Designs, the heart of The Planners Affair stemmed from the simple fact that as wedding planners we constantly serve others and make visions come to life, and we wanted to create an occasion where the wedding planners were treated and a community to be grown. Life is better surrounded by those who support and uplift, and we wanted to start something memorable and meaningful for the hard working woman who constantly make dreams a reality. We styled the space with a long table that sat over 40 planners and a quaint cocktail space to create genuine conversation and a friendly atmosphere that was warm and inviting. Rouge Catering provided a spectacular three course meal while Austin Ellis serenaded the group of DMV planners under the bistro lights and stars at Historic London Town and Gardens.
"You must have a seat for every person"
Dinner parties can be so much more than structure, no matter what the occasion! The biggest wedding trend I have seen pop up more and more is a good cocktail reception. It is a bit unexpected, and creates for a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Out with the structure, in with the fun!
"You must assign a seat at each table so there is no confusion amongst your guests and wait staff."
Assigning your guests to a specific table is a must in most occasions, but assigning a seat to a table can become restricting. We assign tables for organization, but want our guests to have conversation and fun am I right? Kick off the conversation by having your guests introduce each other as they select their seating!
"Never eat with your fingers."
Finger foods can be super fun, especially when it comes to a social gathering. Consider a creative menu that will keep your guests talking during the event both to each other and about the food experience. For The Planners Affair, we used unique and interactive pieces to the appetizers including a goat cheese ball with a dropper filled with herb infused honey. It was a huge hit, and interactive for our guests!
"You must have a proper place setting with utensils for every course."
I am all about making my guests feel relaxed and social, even when it comes to the place settings. Incorporate some different forms of dining by involving some ethnic foods or presentations that don't necessarily require a proper place setting. Our first course we worked with Rouge to create a delicious and unique salad course in a fun martini glass presentation.
"Make all food ahead of time, and be prepared."
Being prepared is good, yes. But, intentionally having some items NOT prepared as your guests arrive can make for an entertainment piece for the evening. Consider having the chef make a special table side dessert such as banana flambe as a "performance" when it is time for some sweets! Keep the event lively and something that your guests will remember.