There’s a reason why people use the phrase “true blue” to describe a person who can be counted on to be loyal and kind. Blue is the color of constancy — the ever-present sky and sea, the calm before the storm, sun-ripened blueberries and morning birds. It’s primary.
Each December, the Pantone Color Institute names the hue for the coming year after, as stated on their site, “combing the world for new color influences.” Prior selections brought us the naturally bright Living Coral and the vibrant Ultra Violet. Now, Pantone’s Color of 2020 honors “Classic Blue” — a hue that’s at once confident and comfortable, making it the perfect choice for this election year — and for your next event. Get inspired by these 26 celebrations that blue us away.
Have you ever stood around a Craps game when the table is hot? Complete strangers cheering, gamblers jumping, even the dealer is delighted. With no stake in the game, it’s the high energy that draws you in and makes you want to be a part of the madness.
There’s something about the excitement of the unknown — and when it comes to throwing memorable parties, it’s never fun to play it safe. Incorporating creative catering, customized games, and unique décor into your casino-inspired celebration will make it a sure-fire winner. Let these 14 innovative party ideas show you how.
1. Deck Out Your Invitations
photographer: Chelsea Davis Photography
It all starts with an invite, and no guest will be able to keep their poker face — or RSVP no — after opening invitations like these. Papellerie used personalized poker chips to give out the details of this destination 40th birthday. Each chip corresponded to one of the weekend’s six events, and we couldn’t be more obsessed.
2. Take the Chip Off Your Shoulder — and Put it in Your Drink
photographer: Vanessa Tierney Photography
Twenty Three Layers brought sexy back to casinos with a futuristic-inspired design. Every detail complemented the sleek set up, down to the modern drink garnishes. There’s nothing better than an on-theme cocktail — paired with matching furniture from Blueprint Studios – Rental.
We know Jay Gatsby loved a good party, and we imagine he’d love a casino celebration even more. So why not combine the two themes like this Theater on the Lake gala did. We’re talking roaring twenties glamour meets high roller luxury — all with the help of Chicago Casino Suppliers’ enticing games.
We promise Santa didn’t gamble your presents away, but he did have a great time at this casino-themed holiday party. Elements we love include these playing cards turned catering menus, ice sculpture slot machines, and Lindsay Piram Creative’s incorporation of suit-style napkins and dice-adorned drinks. There’s nothing like a full house for the holidays.
photographer: Aurelia D’Amore Photography and Docuvitae
If you’re wondering how to make your casino-themed party stunning and chic just take a look at this Bat Mitzvah planned by JOWY Productions. Elegant candelabra centerpieces were complemented by Empty Vase’s dice-shaped floral arrangements. Odds are your guests will love this ‘grammable touch.
Who does casinos better than Vegas? Aliana Events took guests on a trip to a retro sin city with feather bouquets, Elvis impersonators, and a gorgeous floral photo opp from Celio’s Design. Just wait until you see the event staff’s hair accessories.
photographer: MarcelloRodarte Fine Art Photography
Light bites look better like this. We love how Food For Thought ensured their passed apps belonged in the Venue SIX10 casino with chip-filled serving trays — but they’re not the kind of chips you’re thinking of. Read on to see what was for dessert.
photographer: MarcelloRodarte Fine Art Photography
This is a wheel of fortune we can get onboard with. Food For Thought presented a decadent variety of desserts on tables that perfectly accentuated Chicago Casino Suppliers and Bert & Casey Kaulen‘s casino games. Don’t worry, there’s enough to go around.
When it comes to themed weddings, they can be fun while also remaining romantic. Sidekick Events exemplified this by planning a James Bond-meets-Casino Royale-themed wedding at the ever-elegant Rainbow Room. The celebration included cocktail hour casino games from Creative Games Inc and a glistening gold décor palette from Frank Alexander NYC. Another amazing touch? “The winners at the tables got to choose charities, and the bride and groom made donations in their honor!”
Cerbelli Creative hit the décor jackpot inside Glasshouse Chelsea with transformative red lighting, intricate wall art, and plenty of playing tables. The 007 edge works so perfectly with the casino-theme that we might have to bond, James Bond, to it for our own party.
Stacey Moe Events knows no birthday party is complete without personalized party favors. Playing cards are the perfect on-theme gift for guests that no one will want to throw away. With the ability to customize the box, design, and print, the options are endless when it comes to making them your own.
It’s almost 2020, and that means your celebration should offer wearable merch — aka sweats, T-shirts, drawstring bags, sometimes even footwear. JOWY Productions upped the ante with an on-theme “Cashier” stand where friends and family could collect their chic Bar Mitzvah souvenirs in true casino style.
This casino themed Bar Mitzvah included everything from a customized poker chip logo that recurred throughout the party to neon playing card centerpieces and milk chocolate cigars. One of our favorite elements from the “LuckE 13th” birthday bash — inspired by the Bar Mitzvah boy’s first initial — was the slot machine candy bar, brought to life by the planning team at Guerdy Design and the design pros at Ocean Flowers.
But wait, there’s more. The team at Ali Barone Events knows that a milestone birthday — especially an 80th — deserves elements that make the guest of honor feel special. As a surprise, the birthday boy’s photo showed up on both cash and cards. Who wouldn’t love to see a familiar face on their winnings?
We love how CCS creates a totally turn-key experience, from Vegas or Havana-style casino games to expert dealers and even a costume department to ensure everyone looks the part — making for a fun and interactive celebration. photo courtesy of Chicago Casino Suppliers
Everything party is better with a theme — just ask Anna Wintour, host of the annual Met Ball. Though we struggled to grasp this year’s “Camp” theme, we appreciated the creative pink carpet appearances and clever costuming of the A-list attendees. In the end, we love a theme — even if it’s hard to explain.
As the go-to source of all event inspiration, PartySlate features endless themed parties of all sorts: birthdays, corporate gatherings, galas, even weddings. From the return of Lisa Frank to the rise of Kylie Jenner, party hosts are getting creative with their event theming, tying every minute detail together. We’ve narrowed down a list of our 19 favorite party themes from 2019 that were either never-before-seen or traditional with a twist.
Trendy Party Themes Everyone Can Enjoy
photo courtesy of Eddie Zaratsian Lifestyle and Design
This “A Star is Born” Baby Shower Theme is Far From the Shallow
This star-studded baby shower for Andy Cohen’s son-to-be was a celestial celebration playing off of one of the most popular movies of the year. The sky was quite literally the limit for the team at Eddie Zaratsian Lifestyle and Design, who transformed the event space into a cloud-filled wonderland with a dramatic ceiling installation and star-covered cake.
There’s a New Favorite Superhero in Town — Wonder Woman
LV Event Designs planned our new favorite superhero party with this epic Wonder Woman-themed Bat Mitzvah, complete with recognizable cartoon pop art designs on the custom dance floor by Publisigns and furniture by Imperial Party Rentals.
Go Mad Over This Pink Science-Themed Birthday Party
There was no venue more perfect for a science-themed party than at the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago. Lili Marie Parties planned this first birthday party that was all things science — chemistry lab equipment and all! We love the pink feminine twist on this potion-making theme, as we strongly support women in STEM.
Leave it to larger-than-life event planner Russell Harris Event Group to transform the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center into Jurassic Park. Towering trees and leafy installations by InBlume made guests feel as though they were wandering through the depths of a lush forest. Scenic and art director Daryl Latter Designs also used dramatic and colorful lighting to add playfulness to the theme, as well as life-size dinosaur statues.
Lip Kits for All at a Kylie Jenner-Inspired Sweet Sixteen
Kylie Jenner’s influence continues to grow — she’s even tapping into party themes. This Instagram-famous-turned-beauty-mogul-themed party was pastel, chic, and loved by the teenage attendees. The Clayton on the Park’s all-white event space allowed colorful décor and details by Parties On Purpose to pop. And the lip-shaped cake and desserts by A Bake Shop? Tasty, and totally on theme.
Grande or Venti — No Matter the Size, We Love a Starbucks Party Theme
Strong coffee and creative party theme? We’ll take two. Twenty Three Layers planned the cutest coffee-themed Bat Mitzvah playing off of the guest of honor’s favorite bean brand. The recognizable logo covered all of the party’s giveaways by Canary Marketing, while Bombshell Graphics wrapped the Current venue with on-theme pink printing and signage.
This Corporate Event Took a Page Out of Your Favorite Childhood Book
Ever reminisce over your childhood favorites? Paulette Wolf Events took this company’s employees’ fondest of memories and brought them to life with a whimsical children’s book-themed event. Kehoe Designs incorporated different character-inspired décor — like a “Where the Wild Things Are” jungle — making the space feel like a library come to life. We especially love the veggie station by J&L Catering for all of the “Very Hungry Caterpillars” in attendance.
We’re raising our fists in celebration of this forward-thinking Bat Mitzvah — and applaud the 13-year-old for her activism. Alexandra Partow Events brought important missions — such as feminism and LGBTQ+ pride — to light using strongly-messaged pins as place cards, with matching designs used for projection mapping around the all-white space.
With the rise of Instagrammable museums and immersive art installations comes a new party theme. This “Happy Place” Bat Mitzvah, planned by AA Events at The Warehouse Event Venue was a carnival of smiley faces, crazy patterns, bold colors, and of course, photo ops by Rockpaper Events Inc.
This kids party theme was all that and a bale of hay — but really, we love the rice krispie treat desserts shaped to look like hay barrels. This well-executed farm-themed birthday planned by Evoke Design & Creative featured a red farm door as the party’s backdrop and sunflower florals by Sidra Forman, Flowers. Adorable animal details were brought in with cake pops, cupcakes, and party hats for the guests. BD3 Design used cow-patterned designs and red gingham for a true home-on-the-range feel.
Babies are taking back brunch, and we’re extremely jealous of their weekend plans. This colorful, tassel-filled birthday party planned by A Charming Fête is all of our event dreams come true: cereal catering, vibrant florals by Lush & Lovely Floristry, and creative branding all over the space at The Madison.
We love the piano dancing scene from the movie Big, but we love this toy store-themed party more. This Miami kids birthday party planned by One Inspired Party brought the legacy of the legendary FAO Schwarz store back to life with a primary-colored palette and endless toy-inspired décor by Bambini Soiree.
Not every party needs a theme, but when it comes to kids birthdays, we think it’s better when they DoDoDoDo. That’s right: Baby Shark got its own party theme, and the toddlers in attendance went wild for it. Design Plan Play impressed us — yet again — with their attention to underwater details, like the bubble-inspired balloon installation at the party’s entrance by Bambini Soiree, iridescent linens, and the creative catering stations.
photo courtesy of Acquolina Catering Event Management
Dreaming of Downton Abbey? How to Make it Your Own
Break out your finest china, lace gloves, and dainty dessert cakes for a Downton Abbey-themed party. Acquolina Catering & Event Management catered only the finest foods for this high-society soirée at the Harold Pratt House and Peterson Hall. Lovers of the classical television show will appreciate the elevated feel of this party theme, including florals by Aramat Events. Witty banter and fascinators were encouraged.
We’ll Always Have Paris Themes — Just Not Quite Like This
You can almost smell the freshly-baked Ladurée macarons from this extravagant Parisian anniversary party, planned by Untouchable Events. An incredible iron tent structure housing the event calls to mind the intricate design of the Eiffel Tower, while thousands of red roses added to the “City of Love” atmosphere. Designers at Anthony Taccetta Event Design spared no details — black and white French newspapers served as the linen design, which contrasted against the ornate black and gold lacquer dance floor.
This corporate event may inspire your next vacation, if not your party theme. Kraft Events used rich color, textures, and enchanting lighting to transport guests to Bali. Tropical florals sparkled beneath glittering garland installations by Ed Libby & Company, while dramatic orange draping drew guests’ eyes around the space. From the Buddha ice sculptures to the fruit arrangements, this night out really felt like a vacation.
Take a trip down memory lane with this creative party theme. Nothing calls to mind the 90s quite like a Lisa Frank-inspired party. This party’s palette had no limits, and can incorporate any of your favorite colors and patterns. We love how Color Pop Events took advantage of this all-glitter-everything theme for a holiday party — tinsel trees and all — at Flatiron Penthouse. Arabesque Design Studio took the theme to the next level with on-brand stationery using the brand’s iconic fonts and patterns, as well as sequin linens by Nuage Designs.
Multi-room events and installations are taking the industry by storm, and that’s why we were immediately drawn to this “Museum of Party” themed event at the Ice Palace Film Studio in Miami. Joy Wallace Catering thought out of the box for every installation this event included — including a laundry machine-inspired bar. From vending machine catering to a Pac-Man dance floor, this party was a museum guests could never get bored of.
This Corporate Party Theme Makes Us Want to Never Grow Up
This party theme is perfect for the Peter Pan in us all. 24 Carrots Catering and Events served up childhood-favorite cuisine, but with a twist at AV Irvine. We’re talking foie gras Uncrustables, elevated Cup o’Noodles, even Fruity Pebble-topped cocktails. Guests burned off all this edible energy on the full-sized merry-go-round, in the balloon ball pit, and while playing an over-sized version of the board game “Guess Who?”. We love how Shawna Yamamoto brought in childlike color with the floral design.
Seamless, memorable, and super-personal events don’t just happen; they are meticulously planned. A wedding, Bar or Bat Mitzvah celebration, branded corporate event, meaningful fundraiser, and the list goes on — all benefit from the alchemy of the right venue and the right event professionals. That starts with hiring a skilled event planner. Fear not; we’re here to help. Just choose a top event planner in Houston from our well-researched list.
In alphabetical order.
Belle Of The Ball
photographer: Joseph West Photography
PartySlate Insight: For the boutique experience, we love Belle of the Ball. Their dreamy aesthetic and lush backdrops are a photographer’s dream.
Specializes in unique wedding/event planning and production
Over 25 years of event planning experience
Recognized in numerous publications, including People Magazine
PartySlate Insight: From a classic black-tie affair to an elegant farmhouse wedding, Jennifer Laura produces lavish and romantic celebrations. We especially love her artistic use of floral arrangements to create visually-stunning backdrops.
Offers everything from event design to wedding planning and production
Utilizes mood boards and color palettes to initiate design work
Works closely with clients to create personalized celebrations
PartySlate Insight: Keely Thorne Events is where chic meets luxury. Her natural Southern hospitality and ability to flawlessly execute events make her one of the most esteemed event planners in Houston.
Talented team of event professionals focused on creativity and attention to detail
Works closely with clients to create one-of-a-kind celebrations
Work featured in numerous prestigious publications
We love how Oulala! What an Event brings classic yet contemporary touches to each of their celebrations. From latté art to succulent seating chart displays, there’s a ‘grammable moment at every turn.
Full-service, boutique event planning company
Talented team of personable professionals
Creates memorial events tailored to each client’s unique vision
PartySlate Insight: Piper & Muse founder’s enthusiasm for weddings comes through in her attention to detail. We are wowed by how she artfully presents the love and joy that goes into planning each celebration.
Strong creative vision meets exceptional service
Focus on meaningful details
Experienced event planner with a passion for wedding planning
PartySlate Insight: We love how Lexi from The Savvy Event Consultants brings her joyful personality to each celebration. Whether she’s planning a wedding or large-scale corporate event, her love for life — and her clients — make every celebration joyful.
Creates visually stunning events from “concept to clean-up”
PartySlate Insight: We love how SOBI QAZI creates lavish celebrations by working with their extensive in-the-know network. For a luxurious wedding that blends sophistication and dramatic décor, SOBI QAZI is the premier event planner.
Full-service wedding planning team specializing in multicultural weddings
Other special events include corporate celebrations and non-profit gala
Seamlessly blends culture and traditions for an innovative celebration
PartySlate Insight: No two love stories are the same. Two Be Wed recognizes the unique style and personality of each couple. We appreciate how their focus on getting to know their clients is reflected in the exceptional celebrations they produce at home and around the globe.
Clients participate in #colorexperiment with a one-on-one consultation at local fabric store
Creates color palette to launch wedding inspiration board
Utilizes a digital blueprint to plan all aesthetic decisions
PartySlate is the place where leading event professionals share their work with the world. Find new ideas by viewing and saving hundreds of thousands of beautiful event photos from weddings to birthday parties, corporate events to galas. Easily connect with the best local event professionals and find stunning venues. Sign up now »
With flavorful produce and sumptuous catering, Phoenix is on track to “make the desert bloom.” These top Phoenix catering companies remind us that a great celebration starts with exceptional food. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or black-tie soirée, there’s picture-perfect (and utterly delicious) cuisine awaiting you in this stunning desert landscape.
*In no particular order…
Artisan by Santa Barbara Catering
photo courtesy of Artisan by Santa Barbara Catering
PS Statement: We love how this certified woman-owned business is community-focused and environmentally-conscious. Their strong relationships with local purveyors becomes evident when you taste their beautifully-presented cuisine made from only the freshest and most seasonal ingredients.
Inventive cuisine, artistic presentation, and exceptional service
PS Statement: As the go-to caterer for high-end retail events, Benedict’s Catering pairs exceptional service with stunning presentation. We especially love their unique build-your-own stations — we’ve always wanted to learn how to make the perfect margarita.
Detailed event planning and award-winning service
Originally a small business run out of a home kitchen due to demand
PS Statement: We love how Cloth & Flame creates spectacular dining events in unconventional spaces. From flying tables into the Grand Canyon to creating floating docks in Puget Sound, this unique culinary experience company creates unrivaled events in imaginative settings.
Provides catering to all 50 states, including hard-to-reach locations
High profile clientele includes Google, IMG, and Uber
During dinners partnering with local food providers, 10 percent of the proceeds go to coalitions working to preserve wild places and migratory routes.
PS Statement: This woman and minority-owned business caters elaborate, high-end events without sacrificing a commitment to sustainable practices. We love how they use fresh, organic ingredients in their perfectly-plated cuisine.
Woman and minority-owned business
Full-service catering
High-end clientele includes Will Smith and the Baltimore Ravens
PS Statement: M Culinary Concepts creates unforgettable dining experiences that satiate the taste buds and more. We love how they indulge in each of the five senses to produce phenomenal culinary events. From their interactive food stations to their artistically-plated dinners, this award-winning company turns any celebration into a meal to remember.
Globally-influenced cuisine and artful catering presentations
Customized menus beyond the status-quo
Largest privately held catering provider in the Southwest with 40 plus years of experience
PS Statement: We love how Tom and Lin Catering works directly with their clients to create personalized menus. Their limitless imagination allows them to create visually stunning and one-of-a-kind meal presentations that double as décor.
Award-winning catering company
Uses locally sourced food and top imported artisan cheeses
Specializes in regional, American, and international cuisine
PartySlate is the place where leading event professionals share their work with the world. Find new ideas by viewing and saving hundreds of thousands of beautiful event photos from weddings to birthday parties, corporate events to galas. Easily connect with the best local event professionals and find stunning venues. Sign up now »
Finding the right photographer for an important celebration might feel like rocket science. While scrolling through albums and portfolios can tell you something about style and quality, other essential traits are harder to pinpoint. Is the photographer engaging, communicative, flexible? Not to worry. We’ve done our homework and narrowed down the top 10 Atlanta photographers to capture your extraordinary celebration.
*In no particular order…
Aaron Delesie
photographer: Aaron Delesie
PartySlate Insight: Aaron Delesie’s superb technical ability, stemming from his background in advertising and celebrity portraiture, allows him to capture the rich depth, color, and texture of any celebratory setting. Whether photographing a dramatic backdrop or personalized detail, Delesie proves that’s it all in the eye of the beholder.
Background in advertising and celebrity portraiture
Boutique company with small client roster
Illustrious clientele includes celebrities and Fortune 500 companies
PartySlate Insight: It’s all in the details, as they say. We love how Sawyer Baird emphasizes the unique details that distinguish a couple’s love and one-of-a-kind style.
Timeless and refined approach to brand
Photos last the test of time
Focus on details to show off personality of couple
PartySlate Insight: We love the authenticity that Jerry Harwell brings to every photograph. Harwell eschews elaborate Photoshop processing and instead relies on natural lighting and pure technique to create flawless photography.
PartySlate Insight: With an eye for detail and an energetic personality, Jack Parada is able to capture the vivid moments of any celebration. His work as a portrait photographer means he knows how to emphasize the human emotion and interaction that make a wedding or corporate event unforgettable.
Specializes in headshots and wedding, engagement, and corporate photography
PartySlate Insight: Rebecca Cerasani knows that celebrations are about the people who are celebrating. We love how Rebecca Cerasani captures the emotion and vulnerability between couples, families, and friends on such momentous occasions.
“All about the party” philosophy
Documents the couple’s unique expression of joy
Captures emotion and vulnerability between couples and loved ones
PartySlate Insight: We love how the expert photographers at Reichman Photography switch between various styles of photography to best capture the human connection. With perfect timing and positioning, they know how to effortlessly document the most authentic moments of your celebration.
Un-staged, photojournalistic approach
Focus on human connection with an eye for detail
Builds relationships with clientele throughout planning process
PartySlate Insight: We love a good love story, so it’s no surprise that we adore Sarah Ingram’s focus on narrative and storytelling. Her curated process captures the big picture, as well as the small details that make every celebration a tale worth telling.
Regularly photographs weddings throughout the southeast
photographer: The Decisive Moment Wedding Photojournalism
PartySlate Insight: The Decisive Moment relies on teamwork to ensure that everyone from your studio director to photo album designer is an expert in their field. Their style documents the genuine emotions that define a celebration, and we love how their dynamic photographers capture the live moments most worth remembering.
Over a decade of experience
Personalized service from a team of seasoned photojournalists
Studio director creates a custom package, shot list, and wedding timeline
PartySlate Insight: We love how founder, Genya O’Neall’s enthusiasm and love for photography is revealed in every photograph. Her energy is contagious, so even reserved couples will find themselves smiling ear-to-ear in her presence.
PartySlate Insight: We love how Willett Photography shoots with film to create a luxurious final product. Their photographs have a dreamy, watercolor feel that’s ideal for portraits or weddings. The result is a work of art that you’re bound to cherish for years to come.
PartySlate is the place where leading event professionals share their work with the world. Find new ideas by viewing and saving hundreds of thousands of beautiful event photos from weddings to birthday parties, corporate events to galas. Easily connect with the best local event professionals and find stunning venues. Sign up now »
