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Celebrating in Style with a Great Gatsby Party

Want to throw a bash that would make Jay Gatsby himself jealous? Then you’ve come to the right place! The Roaring Twenties were all about glitz, glamour, and extravagant celebrations. Imagine flapper dresses swirling on the dance floor, moody lighting, jazz music filling the air, and champagne flowing like water. In this guide, we’ll take you through every detail of throwing a show-stopping Great Gatsby-themed party.

Set the Scene with a Fabulous Party Name. 

Your party’s name is the first clue to your guests that they’re about to step into a world of opulence and Jazz Age splendour. The key is to capture the era’s essence while creating a name that rolls off the tongue and sticks in the memory. Here are some ideas to get the ball rolling:

  • The Gatsby’s Knees

  • The Bootlegger’s Ball

  • Jazz Age Jubilee

  • Gatsby Glamboree

  • The Roaring Twenty Twenties

  • Let’s Get Carraway

Invitations: Vintage Vibes

Start your guests’ experience before they even walk through the door with invitations that transport them back to the 1920s. Think vintage-inspired, with Art Deco elements like gold, black, and geometric patterns. Whether you go digital or physical depends on the formality of your soirée. Physical invites add a tactile sense of nostalgia, while digital ones can still channel the era’s vibe with the right design. 

Pro tip: Seal those envelopes with a wax stamp to really drive home the elegance!

Venue: Where Glitz Meets Glamour

Choosing the perfect venue is essential. Ideally, you’d opt for a ballroom or spacious garden that exudes grandeur. If such venues aren’t available, fear not. You can transform any space into a Gatsby-esque haven with a little creativity. Think chandeliers, velvet drapes, polished floors, and strategically placed mirrors to reflect all that sparkling decor. Remember, it’s all about creating that wow factor from the moment your guests step inside.

Costumes: Flapper Chic and Dapper Dandies

No Great Gatsby party is complete without the proper attire. Encourage your guests to go all out with shimmering flapper dresses, luxurious pearls, feather headbands, and sharp tuxedos. To add a modern twist, suggest pairing 1920s-inspired pieces with contemporary accessories. Authentic looks can be sourced from vintage stores or rental shops. Remember, it’s not just a costume it’s an experience – so as soon as you don your ensemble get ready to feel the fantasy!

  • Ladies: Think fringe, sequins, and beading. The classic flapper dress was all about movement, so choose a style that shimmers and shakes on the dance floor. For an extra touch of authenticity, suggest dresses in shades like champagne, emerald green, or midnight blue. Don’t forget the accessories – bejewelled cloche hats, and T-strap heels will complete the look. To add a modern twist, consider incorporating unexpected elements like metallic accents, asymmetrical hems, or contemporary cuts while keeping the Jazz Age essence alive.

  • Gents: For men, a tuxedo or three-piece suit is a must. Think sharp pinstripes, bow ties, and polished brogues. Suspenders and pocket squares are non-negotiable. To push the envelope, suggest adding a splash of colour with a brightly-hued tie or a floral lapel pin. Fedora hats, vintage watches, and slicked-back hair with pomade will give that final touch of 1920s dashing charm. For those who really want to stand out, suggest embracing the full Gatsby look with a white suit or a double-breasted blazer.

  • For Those Who Want to Go Big: Suggest guests go bold with standout pieces like feather boas, elbow-length gloves, and Art Deco jewellery. Guests can even go for more extravagant ensembles, such as sequined capes or opera coats. A faux fur stole or wrap can add a layer of vintage glam for colder weather events.

  • Sourcing the Perfect Look: Recommend guests hit up local vintage shops, costume rental stores, or even online retailers specialising in retro fashion. Many companies now offer “Gatsby-style” collections, perfect for capturing the era’s style without the need for custom tailoring. For those on a budget, suggest DIY elements like adding fringe or sequins to an existing dress or using fabric dye to achieve the right colour palette.

  • Encourage a Costume Contest: Add an element of fun by hosting a costume contest with categories like “Best Dressed Flapper,” “Most Dapper Gent,” and “Most Creative Twist on 1920s Fashion.” This will encourage everyone to go all out and ensure your party looks like it’s straight out of a Fitzgerald novel.

Décor: Opulence is the Order of the Day

When it comes to décor at a Great Gatsby-themed party, more is more. It should be as bold and luxurious as the era itself. Think extravagance, elegance and excess. Here’s how to transform your venue into a sizzling hotbed of 1920s glamour:

  • Colour Scheme & Motifs: Stick to a classic colour palette of gold, black, silver, and white to emulate the Art Deco style – especially if this has inspired your invitations. For added pops of depth and richness, intersperse beautiful jewel tones like emerald or sapphire.

  • Lavish Table Settings: Go all out with your table settings. Use crystal glassware, fine china, and gold-plated cutlery. Centrepieces can feature a mix of tall, elegant vases filled with ostrich feathers or pearls draped over candelabras to create a real conversation-starter. Scatter gold confetti or sequined table runners to catch the light and add that important touch of sparkle. For a truly show-stopping effect, hang vintage crystal chandeliers or use candelabras as the main table centrepiece.

  • Dramatic Entrance: Set the tone from the moment guests arrive. A red carpet leading to the entrance, flanked by gold pillars or vintage lanterns, instantly signals that they’re stepping into a night of luxury. A custom-made “Gatsby Mansion” sign, surrounded by string lights or an ornate archway can create a grand, photo-worthy entrance.

  • Lighting for Mood: Lighting is everything in setting the perfect mood. Use a combination of chandeliers and string lights to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Place uplights at strategic points to highlight key areas like the bar, dance floor, or bandstand. Consider using amber or gold-tinted bulbs to bathe the room in a soft, romantic glow. For a more dramatic effect, use spotlights to highlight performers or key features of the décor, and don’t forget the power of candlelight for an intimate, speakeasy feel.

  • Photo Booth & Backdrops: Create a dedicated space for guests to capture the evening’s glamour. Set up a photo booth or a shimmering curtain made of sequins. Provide props like fedoras, feather boas, vintage microphones, and faux cigars. If space allows, consider renting a vintage car or replicating a speakeasy bar scene for guests to pose with.

  • Furniture & Lounge Areas: Create intimate lounge spaces with vintage-inspired furniture – think plush velvet sofas and tufted armchairs. Drape furniture in rich fabrics like satin and velvet, or throw on faux fur blankets for extra glam. Scatter cushions in colours inspired by your chosen colour palette. These areas provide cosy nooks for conversation and also evoke the luxurious feel of a 1920s mansion.

  • Floral Arrangements: Incorporate florals like white lilies, roses, and hydrangeas with touches of greenery. Arrange them in tall crystal vases or vintage-inspired urns. Flowers should feel grand and abundant – an echo of Gatsby’s own lavish garden parties.

  • Dance Floor & Bar Setup: Designate a dance floor with a chequered black-and-white or gold-tiled surface to evoke the feel of a classic ballroom. Create a central bar area stocked with vintage glassware, cocktail shakers, and plenty of champagne. Consider hiring bartenders dressed in 1920s attire to mix classic cocktails and serve them with flair. Add a “Prohibition Corner” with hidden bottles and flasks for a playful nod to the era’s speakeasies.

Music, Performance and All That Jazz!

Music is paramount if you truly want to transport your guests back to the Jazz Age. Hire a live jazz band who can curate a 1920s playlist featuring legends like Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Ella Fitzgerald. For an extra dose of authenticity, bring in live performers – imagine swing dancers or Charleston enthusiasts – to fill the dance floor with energy. Remember, music is not just a backdrop; it’s the heartbeat of the night. Let it swing with some of our Jazz musicians – give them a listen to find out who resonates with you:

  • Jazz Pop with Mimi – Experience timeless classics and reimagined pop hits with a modern jazz twist. This captivating blend of jazz and pop will have everyone tapping their feet.

  • Jazz Bossa – Dance the night away with our lively jazz trio, featuring double bass, guitar, and saxophone. Perfect for creating an upbeat and rhythmic atmosphere.

  • Jazz BisouBe enchanted by a group of extraordinarily talented musicians who put a unique spin on classic jazz, delivering elegance and charm that leaves a lasting impression.

  • Charmes De JazzAdd sophistication and refinement to your event with a versatile lineup specialising in jazz and swing classics – not to mention innovative Postmodern Jukebox-style rearrangements.


  • All the Jazz with Leon – Join a critically acclaimed band featuring some of the UK’s top jazz musicians. Enjoy a thrilling interpretation of the Great American Songbook.

  • Midnight Serenade – Our energetic, dynamic 10-piece jazz band, delivering show-stopping performances with songs from the Great American Songbook.

  • Bella Notte – A highly-experienced performer, Sarah brings an unforgettable experience with her expertise in Great Gatsby and 1920s themes, playing with time-honoured genres for a memorable performance.

Activities: Keep the Good Times Rolling

Ensure your guests are entertained with activities that channel the spirit of the 1920s. Organise a Charleston dance-off or encourage everyone to get their best shot in the photo booth. For those who prefer a more laid-back vibe, poker or card games in a speakeasy setting are a great way to keep the energy buzzing.

Food and Drink: Culinary Delights of the Jazz Age

No Gatsby party is complete without a menu that reflects the indulgence of the time. Think elegant hors d’oeuvres like oysters, shrimp cocktails, and caviar, followed by decadent desserts. When it comes to drinks, champagne is a must! Supplement it with 1920s-inspired cocktails like mint juleps, gin martinis, and sidecars. Create a signature cocktail for the night to add a unique twist – something like “Gatsby’s Gold Fizz” or “Daisy’s Delight.”

Bringing It All Together

Put on your best flapper dress, pour yourself a gin martini, and get ready to party like it’s 1922! Remember, in Gatsby’s world, there’s no such thing as too much – so go big, or go home! 

At All the Feels, these types of parties are straight in our wheelhouse. Our team is passionate about providing show stopping live bands and entertainment for people looking to go all out with their next party or event. Reach out today to find out how we can make your celebration truly unforgettable.

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