Outside Formal Evening Dinner Party Ideas
An outdoor formal dinner party provides a platform for guests to dress up in their finest formal attire and undergo transportation to the life of the "rich and famous," even for just an evening. A formal evening affair is often used to celebrate a birthday, a marriage celebration, or it can simply be an excuse for friends to gather. Remember that your guests will be dressed in fine clothing before making menu and other party decisions; messy finger food could stain your guests' clothing. Games that require physical activity may not be possible when guests are dressed in formal attire, and since the event is outside, take weather predictions into consideration when planning. Does this Spark an idea?
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Table Setting
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You can lay a formal table setting with white linen tablecloths and napkins, delicate fine china and ornate silverware. Alternatively, set a formal table with a contemporary twist; for example, use colored table linens or mixed-colored napkins with a white tablecloth and use silverware with a sleek, modern design. Keep a tablecloth from blowing in the breeze by sewing a pocket on the underside of each corner and filling the pockets with small rocks. Don't forget to add a centerpiece to a formal table; large floral arrangements, either fresh or silk, will add color and style to an event. You can also use unscented candles, or choose a tableware item related to the theme of the event, such as a bowl of fruit or a grouping of small glass butterflies.
Decorations
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Decorations for a formal dinner party should create a festive atmosphere, but remain sophisticated. Make the most of the natural surroundings for your outdoor party. Set tables around a water fountain or under a shady tree. Add lights or Japanese lanterns to highlight flowering bushes or string patio lights overhead. Set up a photo area for guests. Provide a bench and other decorative elements.
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Entertainment
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Entertainment is an important part a formal dinner party; hire a string quartet or a full band. You can have the musicians play from a patio or other elevated area, or rent a stage from an event supplier. Encourage guests to dance by providing a dance floor that you can also rent from an event suppler. Take into consideration that guests are likely to be dressed in nice clothing and won't want to participate in games or activities that might damage their clothes. An icebreaker activity such as asking guests to find another guest who shares their birthday month helps guests meet and mingle. Trivia games are also a way to entertain guests.
Other Ideas
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Give guests something to help them remember your event. Favors include such items as a chocolate truffle in a small decorative box or another item of value that matches your theme, like a wine or water glass with the event name or date etched on it. Alternatively, give each guest a book of poetry or a bag of locally roasted coffee. Remember to thank guests for their attendance by sending formal thank-you notes and include a photo of the guests at the party with the note.
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References
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