So I had just finished reading the Great Gatsby before my 30th birthday and I instantly fell in love with the era. So as a goodbye to my Roaring Twenties (and as I entered my own great depression of becoming 30) I decided to make this my theme. My beautiful invites were made by my wonderful friend Roxy from MKR
I used cardboard (that I up-cycled from a box) painted it black with my little acrylic paint and printed black and white photos of my life. A good friend of mine made my cupcakes, while I made the mini cheesecakes in a cup and the chocolate dipped strawberries. The cookies were store bought and the cake was a custom order.
My fabulous flapper cake was not only fabulous but also delicious . My sweet friend and baker Cyntia. created a pistachio white cake, with raspberry filling and white chocolate frosting.
My DIY bar was my favorite. I made my personalized Speakeasy sign with cardboard, black and white acrylic paint.
I decided to personalize my drink menu with parts of my name for fun. To keep costs low, I decided on champange, mojitos and sangria. My DIY sign was made out of Dollar Tree items (pearls, frame) and computer paper.
After perusing the Salvation Army on their 40% off day, I came across the candle holders ($7 for the set of 10). Because Mason Jars were used for moonshine in the 1920's , I found them appropriate to use as my vases. I found the silver trays at the Dollar Store as well as the faux pearls. I decided on pearls as they remind me of flappers.
I got really lucky with the black lace. My mom had an entire roll in her garage. As for the flowers, red carnations were my top choice as they are not only red and vibrant but cost effective.
I got really lucky with the black lace. My mom had an entire roll in her garage. As for the flowers, red carnations were my top choice as they are not only red and vibrant but cost effective.
My DIY PhotoBooth was done with items that I had around the house. I already had the two Chiavari chairs which I purchased at the Swapmeet for $2 dollars each. I found my vintage table at my sister's garage sale. My backdrop (which is my personal favorite piece) was purchased at the fabric store for $2 a yard (I only used a yard and a half). My props were all handmade. I did not want to spend 8 dollars at Oriental Trading plus shipping. So instead I used black card stock, found a free template online, bought glue dots and skewer sticks (Dollar Tree). Viola! Instant DIY props for less than five dollars.
The feathered, sequined headbands were also a DIY project. I bought about 2yds at the fabric store, feathers at Michaels (with a 40% coupon) and used my glue gun. I made a few of these in the event that guests didn't dress up.
Dollar Tree frame. Can you tell I'm obsessed with the Dollar Tree?
Although my food table doesn't look very fancy I decided to share it with you. To keep costs low, I purchased frozen lasagnas from Costco, baked them and served them. I also purchased the bread rolls and salads from Costco. My sister made a big pot of spaghetti while my mom made a pot of shrimp fettuccine. The food costs were under $150 for 50 guests. Not bad, for being on a budget, huh?!
So I was running out of time and I had forgotten to order my long cigarette to accessorize my outfit. So I went to Party City and bought a pack of fake (but look super real) cigarettes. I used a pencil and painted it black (with acrylic paint) and used silver tape to hold my piece together.
I had my husband spray paint a cardboard box black (Spray paint was the cheap one from Walmart, less than $3). He cut a small rectangle for a peephole. I was trying to go with the whole SpeakEasy vibe upon entering the party.
I loved that (without planning on it) all my guests wore black or red and I was the only one in white!
As for my dress, I found it at Ross for $16.99. I made my own headpiece with an old scarf, gold ribbon and feather from Michaels and an old vintage brooch.
I honestly couldn't of pulled this event off without the wonderful help of my family and friends. I am one blessed, 30 year old , gal.
