How to plan an old Hollywood engagement party

Glitz, glamour, gravitas: old Hollywood is the ultimate blend of entertainment and sophistication, the perfect fit for an engagement party to remember forever. No twee touches or flash fancy dress, just enchanting elegance at every turn. 

If you’re looking for a timeless theme for your celebration that nevertheless promises to pack a punch, look no further. We’ve covered the key elements that will help you turn back the clock to this golden age to honor your future, whether you’re keeping it intimate or going all out. 

1. Nail the styling

First things first: stage your set. A monochrome color scheme echoes the days of black-and-white movies and is guaranteed to look chic. Elements that would fit the bill in an Art Deco design scheme, popular in the ‘30s, include geometric flooring, black leather sofas and plush furniture with lavish adornments. 

For a touch of luxury, feature aged gold statement pieces like large mirrors and matching cocktail shakers. You could also emphasise the Hollywood theme with a red carpet, complete with a stanchion fastened with a velvet rope.

2. Look the part

Everyone will look their best in Hollywood glam, so you can be confident of fantastic photographs from this event – and it gives you the chance to go all out! Brides-to-be can wow in floor-length gowns in fits from flapper to strapless, embellished with elbow-length gloves. Gents, go bold with a velvet ‘smoking jacket’ or top-to-toe pinstriped suit. 

If you’ve invested in a vintage engagement ring to match your classic style, don’t be afraid of showing it off. As the crowning piece of the puzzle, it deserves to be the centre of attention as everyone celebrates your relationship milestone!

3. Set the scene

Once you and the venue look the part, it’s time to set the scene with those all-important atmospheric touches. Hire a jazz band to play classic hits including everyone’s Broadway favorites or get a swing band and dance the night away. Looking to save money? Songs played through subtle speakers will do the trick.

Keep the lighting low to ensure guests feel comfortable and relaxed from the off, with candles for added romance. Consider making it a no-phones event so technology doesn’t ruin the mood and hiring a photographer to manage the snaps instead.

4. Add personal touches

After all, this party isn’t a celebration of Old Hollywood, but of you and your partner. Integrate personal touches to make the party feel truly special. You could have a photo board with pictures capturing your journey together, and a memory book where people can tell stories of their time with you. Serve your favorite food, play your favorite songs, and remember to deliver a champagne toast thanking your other half and your friends and family.

Sticking with the theme, why not write speeches with some old movie lines woven in, or perform a monologue that perfectly encapsulates your feelings? You could even theme the party around a movie or actor special to you, like Breakfast at Tiffany’s or Marilyn Monroe.