White Lace / Pop-up Dinner
I think it's safe to say that even when the wedding is over, and you are in newlywed mode; white dresses are still on the brain. I kid you not, I've bought 3 in the last few months. AND they have all been lace to some variation!!!
A white lace dress is a cool and feminine summer staple. This midi length dress I wore is both comfortable and fashion forward. I would round out this look with gold earrings and a bright colored handbag. Definitely keep accessories simple, and let the lace dress steal the show here.
But it's not only the wedding that put me in this mindset. Last year I became aware of the exclusive, no way I could get in, I have no sponsor Diner En Blanc party. For those who don't know this is a yearly event that began in Paris nearly 30 years ago. At the last minute, a secret location is revealed to thousands of "friends" who have all been waiting to learn where “Dîner en Blanc” will take place. Thousands of people, dressed all in white then meet for a mass “chic picnic” in a public space. This has now become a global city event joining millions together. After hearing of this and thinking of all the pretty outfit ideas, of course I wanted in. I scoured the internet and Facebook relentlessly looking for an in to this chic event. FAIL!
Then my bff told me about a alternative event, with a similar premises being hosted by Handmade Events called The PopUp.
[ PopUp [adj.] pertaining to or executing a spontaneous or unique event where participants create an unexpected, one-of-a-kind experience. ]
Bingo, I was ready! As life would have it, when time to buy the tickets I couldn't. Damn you responsibilities (adulting is hard)! I watched from the sidelines as my friend enjoyed the event in Prospect Park. Then, to make matters even crazier, my boss at the time went to Diner En Blanc. How sway?!?!
Well fast forward to this year, I gave up on trying for Diner En Blanc, and purchased tickets to the Handmade Pop-Up dinner in June. The $40 ticket secured entry, entertainment, and a table. My friends and I then needed to set forth a plan for decor, food, and drinks. Also since the location is not revealed until the day of, transportation options had to be laid out for various scenarios. My friends and I settled on a ode to Solange "A Seat At the Table" theme. Our menu had a southern inspiration, with a hint of our West Indian culture sprinkled in for a twist.
On June 3rd at around 2pm EST we learned that the event would be held at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal. The setting was spectacular. I can't tell you how amazed I was at the creativity I saw in table settings and the variety of outfits among the 6000 guests. It varied from simplistic fun to all out design extravaganza. The inner event planner and interior decorator dreams of many were on display. I couldn't help but snap pictures as I weaved through the tables to assess the scene. My friends and I enjoyed our dinner and made new friends throughout the day. As night drew near the wine and spiked lemonade ( made by me!!) kicked in and we made our way to the dance floor and broke out some old school moves to the rhymes by DMC.
There is another one in NYC taking place in September on Governors Island, and I am so tempted to go again. But I am thinking I just may wait until next year :) I would highly recommend this event to anyone in a hosted state.
You can see a list of cities and pictures from previous events here , or on Facebook.
Tips I can provide for those who are thinking of attending:
1. Wear white. This is not the time to try and be a standout is another color. But do go all out with the style. Let your personality shine!
2. Grab a group of at least 4-5 friends. Tables held a max of 10. This is definitely a communal event.
3. Arrive early! Tables are on a first come, first served basis. We got there a bit late and ended up in the far back.
4. Stick to finger foods that are fine at room temperature or a bit cold. There are no burners.
5. Get creative with the table setting. This doesn't mean break the bank. You'd be surprised what treasures you can find at a Dollar Tree and flowers at Trader Joe's are super cheap. Don't forget a tablecloth!
6. Make it a point to speak to at least 5 people you don't know. There are lots of conversation starters at this event. I always believe in networking.
7. Leave the hard alcohol home. Security does check, but if you want to try I won't tell.
See below for some great white lace dress options I found online you can wear to your next white event. Also I shared a few pictures I took at the PopUp dinner on June 3.
Outfit details:
