Romance. Mystery. Old World charm.
A masquerade ball combines all of these elements with sophistication, elegance, and breathtaking spectacle. What’s more, whimsy and anonymity reign, providing the perfect canvas for an unforgettable social event.
Of course, we’ve seen masquerade balls in a variety of movies from Labyrinth to Fifty Shades of Grey. But whether you’re feeling naughty or nice, you can create a once-in-a-lifetime event inspired by this Venetian Renaissance tradition.
Ready for your ultimate guide to throwing a masquerade party? Read on.
Pick the Perfect Party Theme
When it comes to the perfect masquerade party theme, choices abound. Themes include:
- Black and white
- All white
- All black
- Jewel adorned
- Venetian Ball
- Vampire-inspired
- Mardi Gras or Carnival style
By choosing a theme, you can streamline the rest of your event planning, creating an opulent, elegant event. In some cases, you can even combine two themes.
For example, the Mardi Gras or Carnival theme pairs well with jewel-adorned decorations and jewel tones. So does the Venetian Ball theme. The black and white theme works well with vampires as does all black or all white.
Don’t Skimp on the Invitations
Skip Facebook event reminders and e-vites. But don’t skimp on the invitations. Set the appropriate tone from the start by sending handwritten invitations at least six weeks in advance.
These invitations should be themed for the event and provide a little taste of the evening to come.
Don’t forget to ask guests to RSVP by a certain date so that you can adjust food and other accommodations accordingly.
Choose a Unique Venue
Once you’ve sorted out your theme, it’s time for the fun to begin. Look for a venue that’s appropriate to your theme, your geographical location, and the time of year and expected weather for the event.
For example, a masquerade ball can feel altogether magical midsummer when the weather’s temperate in the evenings and the stars shine brightly in the night sky.
That said, a cozy bed and breakfast or inn with a roaring fireplace could prove the ideal spot for a fall or winter event. Other locations worth considering include gardens, museums, restaurants, and ballrooms.
As you search for the right party place, look for a venue that can hold your intended number of guests, offer indoor and outdoor areas (if the weather’s good), and has a staircase for dramatic entrances. High ceilings add a sophisticated touch, too.
Consider how accessible the venue will prove to your guests and whether or not those with special needs can be accommodated. Finally, a good taxi or valet service provides an elegant touch while unobtrusively helping with crowd control.
Consider Entertainment
For the ultimate in sophistication, hire live musicians. Classical musicians who can play Baroque and Classical favorites will provide the perfect mood and enhance the excitement of the event.
Look for musicians who can switch between different styles. That way, as the evening progresses, the music can evolve with the event. For a Mardi Gras or Carnival style event, think jazz to evoke the perfect mood.
Music should enhance the mood of your event throughout the evening. Live musicians provide an unparalleled level of sophistication and usually prove more affordable than you think.
Not sure where to hire performers? Inquire with your city’s local music union for a list of live musicians.
Find the Right Decor
Unlike a birthday or graduation party, you want to go for elegant when it comes to a masquerade party. So, throw out the balloons, tinsel, and confetti.
Instead, think about clean lines and dramatic pieces that provide sophisticated, though minimal, touches. As you find the perfect venue, think wall color and lighting because you won’t be able to change these before the party.
But if you get stuck with a venue that has horrible paint, all is not lost. Consider draping the walls in fabric. You’ll need to work with the venue to do, and it will prove both labor-intensive and expensive.
But it will definitely set the right mood.
Hire a florist to create elegant, contemporary flower arrangements for the perfect finishing touches. Candles also add a warm ambiance and go particularly well with the Vampire and Venetian Ball themes.
Think Party Food
While food remains an important element of your party, you need to choose appetizers with care. After all, eating in a mask isn’t the easiest undertaking. So, don’t assume people will chow down on a potluck-style dinner.
Again, go for rich details by setting up stations for hors-d’oeuvres and apps that are bite-sized and themed for your event. Delectable treats worth considering include:
- Mini-crepes either savory or sweet
- Caviar
- Upscale fries
- Cheese plates
- Truffles
Don’t forget a fine selection of wine and alcohol as well as non-alcoholic drinks. Non-alcoholic cocktails are enjoying a moment right now and prove well worth adding to your menu for a fun twist that accommodates every taste.
Don’t Forget an Amazing Costume
Yes, you have a lot to do as the party planner for this extravagant event. But your costume matters because all eyes will inevitably be on you. (Especially if you do find the perfect venue with a staircase.)
Make sure your costume exemplifies the theme of your party without appearing too matchy-matchy. After all, you don’t want to look like an extension of your decor! Your costume should build on the theme, adding new layers and dimension.
And the best accessory for the evening won’t be jewelry, although the right bling can’t hurt. Your mask will prove the ultimate accessory of the night.
So, don’t settle for the same old tired party mask that anybody can purchase from a party store. Instead, check out custom masks designed specifically for you and your event.
Here are a few fashion tips to get you started.
The Masquerade Ball of Your Dreams
From your party theme to your venue and decor, don’t spare any detail when it comes to planning your dream masquerade ball.
Elegant details such as hiring live musicians and choosing upscale appetizers will infuse your party with opulence and one-of-a-kind charm. And whatever you do don’t forget to choose the perfect costume for your special evening.
This outfit should echo the theme of your party without overtly matching the decor. Coupled with a mask crafted just for you, you’re sure to turn heads and provide the final touch of elegance, mystery, and romance.
Now, here’s what you need to know about finding the best luxury handbag to complement your red-carpet worthy look.
