The era of Hollywood Glamour included stars like Gregory Peck, Jimmy Stewart, Grace Kelly, and Vivian Leigh.

For some of us, the weather is finally staying consistently nice. For others, winter’s cold is setting in. So with that in mind, I try to create parties that work both indoors or out. This month’s Hollywood Glamour theme does that, but I’ve added a few extra tips for an outside touch. The 1940s were the start of a new entertainment age. While there was such a thing as a famous actor, celebrity was a concept of the future. But when film first appeared, it took the world by storm. Everyone wanted to see the movies, and it didn’t matter that the entire thing was silent but for a musical score played by an organist offstage. Silent movies were all the rage until the day came that audio was added. Within a few short years, we went from loving the movies, to loving the stars. At no time was that better seen than in the 1940s, and with a little effort, you can recreate the magic.

Décor

No one says classic film star style quite like Audrey Hepburn. Encourage female guests to use her as inspiration.

The age of Hollywood Glamour was one of high fashion and its worthwhile to take a few hints from the style. Stick to a black and white theme for your party, in keeping with the elegant theme of Hollywood and the movies of the time. If you feel you have to have a splash of color, stick to one rich color. Gold, maroon, purple, blue, all of these work but you want to use only one and let it accent say in flowers, or a little confetti on tables. Encourage everyone to dress up as well. If your friends are the type to go all out for a party have them dress as a 40s film star or iconic role. If not, just make it a black & white party. It keeps a dressy look but can be easier for people to come up with outfits. If you want to go with an outdoor party, I’d stick to the black & white theme. It allows for cooler and more comfortable outfits. Finally, hang photos of 40s movie stars around the room to enhance the feel. Keep the photos in black and white!

Food & Drink

These hors d’oeuvres may look fancy but they’re surprisingly simple.

Whether you’ve encouraged costumes or simply black & white, you want that glam feel in your food as well. But fancy food doesn’t have to be difficult to make and most people don’t want to eat cavier and liver pate anyway. The key is to create hors d’oeuvres or finger food. Its just about being creative. So instead of having cucumbers with a ranch dip, mix a thicker dip, put a spoonful on top and sprinkle some chopped tomatoes over it. Voila! Or whereas a more casual party might have chips & salsa, you could go with bruschetta. There are lots of great recipes out there. The important thing is that the treats are easily eaten with one hand. With a little preparation its easy to make great treats that look glamourous but are easy to create!

For drinks, keep it fancy. Sparkling cider or champagne if your party guests are of age. You can certainly add a splash of pizzazz to the drinks. Toss a few raspberries in the top of each glass for a fruity taste and pop of color.

Music

Games

At some point in your party, show a classic film. Casablanca is a must see.

Now for the focus of your party. Here’s where the outdoor theme really comes in. Obviously, you can have an outdoor party and just play games. But if you can pull it off, set up a large projector in your backyard and put lawn chairs and blankets down for an outdoor movie night. In this case, you’ll want to let your neighbors know about the party and don’t start the movie too late. I highly recommend Casablanca as the best choice. Anyone who’s already seen it will be happy to see it again and anyone who hasn’t…well its about time they did.

Now for those who don’t want a movie as their focus or choose to show one inside, you need activities to keep the party going. Start off with an icebreaker by playing the famous name game. This is simple, as a guest comes in, put the name of a 40s actor/actress on their back. They have to ask yes or no questions to figure out who they are. If you want to make it more challenging, you can include movies with the actors.

Charades or movie trivia are also great games. If your guests are movie buffs, go with Charades. If not, stick to movie trivia. Sometimes its hard to guess a charade but most people recognize phrases like “Here’s looking at you, kid” and “Frankly, my dear, I don’t give a damn”. The trick is if they can place them to the movie. You can also use the pictures of stars around the room as trivia questions. Don’t forget the prizes! When you’re done with the games, its time for the movies. Have extra chairs, cushions, etc available for people to sit on. Its also a great time to make up some popcorn and an icy soda. Sure its not fancy, but even the most glamourous Hollywood starlet relaxed sometime.

Whether you hold your party outdoors or in, focus on games or movie viewings, you can bet this won’t be a party easily forgotten.