THE SUITE
If you’re looking to put a spin on your next party or event, why not try a Masquerade theme? Masquerade Balls were a feature of Carnival season in the 15th Century and involved elaborate pomp and circumstance, pageants, and processions to celebrate marriages and other prestigious events of the medieval court. By the 16th Century’s Renaissance, they had become popular as elaborate dances for the upper classes, being extremely popular in Italy’s Venice. And now you – yes you – can create the glory that is the Masquerade for your next party or event! Just follow the tips below and you’ll be on your way to a night of mystery and intrigue. If you find any of the tips helpful below, be sure to LIKE or SHARE on Facebook or Twitter. It’ll be our little secret. :)
Theme Type:
The first thing to consider when planning a masquerade party is the theme type or style. Ah - and you thought all balls were the same (no pun intended). Theres' a variety of styles you could choose, but the most popular three are -Venetian Balls, Mardi Gras/Carnival, and Gothic. Mardi Gras & Carnival style masquerade balls are generally held in sync with the festival celebration and can veer toward Mardi Gras of New Orleans, or any variation of Carnival influenced by Brazil or the Caribbean islands. The style of the Venetian Ball is credited to the Venetians of the 16th century with noted for velvet, brocade, and feathered masks. And the Gothic theme is the most flexible, and can coincide with Halloween season, or even Carnival for a dark twist on a popular choice. No matter which theme you choose, you're guaranteed to leave quite the impression on your guests.
Decor:
The great thing about Masquerade Theme Parties is that your options for décor are only limited by the style of Masquerade you decide on. Between Venetian, Carnival, Mardi Gras, Gothic, and all the other styles, the possibilities are endless. But, there are some pretty standard items every Masquerade worth its pomp and circumstance should have – starting with masks. No matter your style or color palette, the use of masks will set the stage. You can use them to decorate tables and as place settings. Or try hanging masks on the wall or from the ceiling. Feathers can also be used in a variety of Masquerade styles. Although we’re slightly partial to feathers (Have your seen our Showgirls?), feathers also make for great and dramatic table centerpieces. Most other decorations can be determined by your theme style. For example, if you’re hosting a Venetian theme Masquerade ball, be sure to use lots of velvet and brocade. For Mardi Gras theme Masquerade balls – all we need to say is beads, beads, and more beads. And for a Gothic style Masquerade ball, you can have at it with candelabras, spider webs, and roses (red or dead). There are tons of other options to play with, so be sure to check out Party City for more ideas.
Masks & Costumes:
Speaking of Party City, what’s a masquerade theme party or event without costumes? Be sure to get guests to dress in the theme of the party to keep all that atmosphere you’ve created circulating. If you’re in Atlanta, GA, be sure to visit Norcostco where you can find costumes and masks for rental or purchase. And if you’re outside of Atlanta - never fear. There’s enough intrigue to go around, so be sure to check Party City online, or any online costume supplier.
Entertainment:
Now for the fun part! There’s nothing like entertainment to generate atmosphere at a party. And there are a few fun options for masquerade parties. You can try a Mask Station, where party and event guests can decorate their own masks with feathers, beads, sequins, and etc. Photo booths are another great option where guests can doll up and #selfie the night away. And we can forget live entertainment! Whether you choose a Fire Performer, Stilt Walker, Human Statue, or Trapeze artist, Circus Acts are a great fit no matter what Masquerade style you choose. If you’ve never booked a Circus Act, be sure to CLICK HERE for a Guide to Booking Circus Acts like a pro. And if your masquerade theme is different from any of the themes we listed, just get creative. For example, if you’re hosting a Great Gatsby theme Masquerade Ball, a few Roarin’ 20’s Flappers are just the thing you need for a lively, yet mysterious night.
The first thing to consider when planning a masquerade party is the theme type or style. Ah - and you thought all balls were the same (no pun intended). Theres' a variety of styles you could choose, but the most popular three are -Venetian Balls, Mardi Gras/Carnival, and Gothic. Mardi Gras & Carnival style masquerade balls are generally held in sync with the festival celebration and can veer toward Mardi Gras of New Orleans, or any variation of Carnival influenced by Brazil or the Caribbean islands. The style of the Venetian Ball is credited to the Venetians of the 16th century with noted for velvet, brocade, and feathered masks. And the Gothic theme is the most flexible, and can coincide with Halloween season, or even Carnival for a dark twist on a popular choice. No matter which theme you choose, you're guaranteed to leave quite the impression on your guests.
Decor:
The great thing about Masquerade Theme Parties is that your options for décor are only limited by the style of Masquerade you decide on. Between Venetian, Carnival, Mardi Gras, Gothic, and all the other styles, the possibilities are endless. But, there are some pretty standard items every Masquerade worth its pomp and circumstance should have – starting with masks. No matter your style or color palette, the use of masks will set the stage. You can use them to decorate tables and as place settings. Or try hanging masks on the wall or from the ceiling. Feathers can also be used in a variety of Masquerade styles. Although we’re slightly partial to feathers (Have your seen our Showgirls?), feathers also make for great and dramatic table centerpieces. Most other decorations can be determined by your theme style. For example, if you’re hosting a Venetian theme Masquerade ball, be sure to use lots of velvet and brocade. For Mardi Gras theme Masquerade balls – all we need to say is beads, beads, and more beads. And for a Gothic style Masquerade ball, you can have at it with candelabras, spider webs, and roses (red or dead). There are tons of other options to play with, so be sure to check out Party City for more ideas.
Masks & Costumes:
Speaking of Party City, what’s a masquerade theme party or event without costumes? Be sure to get guests to dress in the theme of the party to keep all that atmosphere you’ve created circulating. If you’re in Atlanta, GA, be sure to visit Norcostco where you can find costumes and masks for rental or purchase. And if you’re outside of Atlanta - never fear. There’s enough intrigue to go around, so be sure to check Party City online, or any online costume supplier.
Entertainment:
Now for the fun part! There’s nothing like entertainment to generate atmosphere at a party. And there are a few fun options for masquerade parties. You can try a Mask Station, where party and event guests can decorate their own masks with feathers, beads, sequins, and etc. Photo booths are another great option where guests can doll up and #selfie the night away. And we can forget live entertainment! Whether you choose a Fire Performer, Stilt Walker, Human Statue, or Trapeze artist, Circus Acts are a great fit no matter what Masquerade style you choose. If you’ve never booked a Circus Act, be sure to CLICK HERE for a Guide to Booking Circus Acts like a pro. And if your masquerade theme is different from any of the themes we listed, just get creative. For example, if you’re hosting a Great Gatsby theme Masquerade Ball, a few Roarin’ 20’s Flappers are just the thing you need for a lively, yet mysterious night.
There you have it! We hope you enjoyed these tips for planning your masquerade theme party or event. If you found any of the tips helpful, be sure to LIKE or SHARE on Facebook or Twitter! And if you have any to add, be sure to do so in the comments below. We’ll be waiting! You may also like: The Ultimate Guide for Booking Circus Acts, Round Up | Hawaiian Luau Entertainment with Aloha Atlanta, or 21 Themes for Fire Performances.
