Event Inspiration: 10 Elegant Theme Parties

A well-implemented theme can captivate an audience and transform an evening event into a vibrant, engaging spectacle. A theme party serves as the backdrop for Instagrammable moments and creates memories attendees won’t soon forget.

Here are 10 elegant themes for business events:

1. Roaring ‘20s

This is the era of flappers, glamour, and gangsters (as well as Downton Abbey). Opt for a black, white, and red color scheme with boas and pearls for guests. Since this was the time of Prohibition, serve spirits and mocktails in stemmed martini glasses. Décor ideas might include a vintage car as a backdrop and glass centerpieces overflowing with pearls.

2. Moulin Rouge

The movie, as well as the original inspiration, involves cabaret, courtesans, and, of course, the can-can. The focus is on dancing and hired entertainment, and the room is full of vibrant reds and golds and flowing taffeta.

3. The Orient Express

Based on Agatha Christie’s detective novel, Murder on the Orient Express, this theme combines the elements of a murder mystery with a train/travel theme. Costumes and décor are in keeping with the 1930s glamour theme.

4. Arabian Nights

Tents, aerial draping, and marquees are the signature highlights of this theme. Warm lighting completes the atmosphere, along with low/floor seating and stools where attendees can sample Middle Eastern specialties.

5. Egyptian

A sandy, yellow color palette can easily transform any room to suit this theme, along with backdrops of the Pyramids and other famous Egyptian landmarks – and perhaps even a prop of the Great Sphinx of Giza. Attendees can adorn themselves with cat-eye makeup and headdresses.

6. Atlantis 

Mermaids are always elegant and can be incorporated into an under-the-sea theme that includes blue lighting and décor, as well as colorful tropical fish. Decor can include hanging bubbles or seaweed streamers, with shells for centerpieces.

7. Murder Mystery

A murder mystery or Clue theme can create an engaging, interactive setting where the guests are always suspicious of each other. This flexible theme can be as large- or small-scale as the budget allows and set in any time period or location.

8. Hollywood

Red carpets, glitz, and glamour come together to create a Hollywood A-list event. Black tie and fabulous full-length dresses are the dress code of the evening. For an awards ceremony, take this to the next level with an Oscar-themed event with golden statues and hired paparazzi to photograph the winners.

9. James Bond

A James Bond theme allows guests to get in touch with their inner secret agents. Decor can range from movie motifs and themed centerpieces to full-size James Bond cutouts or character actors for photo opps. The signature drink: a martini, shaken not stirred.

10. Fire and Ice

Two opposing sides come together to create a stunning effect. Combine faux fire burners as centerpieces with ice luges and dry ice at the food station. Color schemes blend warm tones of red, oranges and yellows with colder blues and whites. Attendees can choose the color attire that best suits their mood.