While plenty of event planners look to the future for their themes, it is sometimes just as valuable to draw inspiration from the past! A vintage theme for your event can bring the formality of the 1920s and 30s to your event, with music, drink, and dancing. In this blog, we’ll show you the best suppliers to hire when you’re planning a vintage event…
The term “Vintage” can mean something different to everyone. However, when it comes to events, it is generally agreed that a vintage event draws inspiration from the 1920s and 30s. You may also see these referred to as “Gatsby” or “Peaky Blinders” style events in a head nod to the popular fiction set in the timescale.
In practice, there are many ways in which your choice of theme can manifest itself at your event, usually through event decorations, music, food, and drink (to name but a few).
Vintage events are perfect for all sorts of occasions, from birthdays to anniversaries and corporate events to charity nights.
Here is a list of the best suppliers to make your vintage event an excellent occasion…
Vintage Bands
Vintage bands can come in many different forms, but they generally break down into two different types.
- An authentic band that tries to stay as accurate as possible to the music of the time
- A band that puts a vintage spin on modern hits to enable you to have recognisable songs that still fit your event theme.
Which style of band you choose will depend on your personal preferences, the audience attending and what kind of atmosphere you are looking to create.
Make sure you have a good look through any prospective act’s promotional material before booking, and don’t be afraid to ask them questions to ensure you get the perfect entertainment for your event.
Bartenders and Mixologists
A considerable part of any black-tie vintage event is getting authentic drinks for your time period – much as it may surprise you, Jager bombs were not particularly popular in the 1920s!
Experienced bartenders and mixologists can help you create a menu that stays true to your theme, with classic Gin Martini’s, Manhattan’s and Whiskey Old Fashioned’s galore.
If you don’t have a bar already installed in your venue, a professional bartender can often work with a Mobile Bar company to put one in place.
Browse all Bartenders and Mixologists…
Event Furnishings
Once your music is booked, and your drinks menu is ready, it’s time to look at your venue.
While it’s possible to book a venue that already looks true to the time, it’s more likely that your event is not taking place somewhere that immediately looks like a 1930s ballroom.
This is where a top-quality event furnishing firm will come into its own. Working with you, they can decorate your venue to make it look like an authentic 1920s venue.
There may be other suppliers that you might want to look into for specific items like ice sculptures.
Casino Games
If you’re looking for some extra entertainment, casino games are a brilliant way to encourage conversation between guests who might not have met before.
Casino games companies will be able to supply full-sized Blackjack tables, Roulette, Poker, and many more and a croupier to staff them.
Most companies will already cater for event themes and can have the staff dress accordingly.
Browse all Casino Games providers…
Burlesque Entertainers
The 1920s and 30s were prime time for Burlesque, and you can still hire a fantastic dancer for your event.
Performing a variety of routines to music, a Burlesque dancer will add an authentic touch of the 30s to any event, large or small.
Browse all Burlesque Entertainers…
Jazz Bands
If your event is to include a drinks reception or a dinner, then why not include some more live music to match?
Jazz is a type of music often associated with formal occasions and was incredibly popular in the 1920s and 30s. It can make for the perfect background music over dinner or drinks, whether it’s a solo musician like a cocktail pianist or a larger swing band.
Use Gig Heaven to find the perfect suppliers for your event.
Have you planned a vintage event? Which suppliers worked well for you? Leave your advice in the comments below…
