SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
rehearsal dInner & prIvaTe dInIng guIde
The ins and outs of
REHEARSAL DINNERS
and private dining parties A private dinner is a chance for people to gather and get to know each other better and have a shared experience. Whether it’s a rehearsal dinner, a birthday party or a corporate function, if you have a certain look and price point in mind, chances are you can find a restaurant that will suit your needs. Most have experience hosting small to large functions, so planning is relatively painless. Hosting a dinner at a restaurant ensures that your guests will enjoy excellent fare, since good food is their specialty. Plus, they are already fully decorated, allowing for added pizzazz that may be lacking in another venue type’s more basic décor. If you’re foodies, a restaurant can be a place that is as adventurous with its cuisine as you are. These days your personality or that of your business can be reflected in the setting. However, keep in mind that with restaurants, the good food can come with space limitations. Remember that if your group size doesn’t warrant renting the entire place, you may be seated close to regular patrons, which can mean less privacy. Semi-private dining – or dining that is not closed off – can mean that noise and passersby will be out of your control. “At a baseline, you want a restaurant with enough space for your guests to feel comfortable,” said Jennifer Boozer, Director of Marketing for Buckhead Life Restaurant Group, which owns twelve restaurants and private event spaces. Private dinners are the first time a lot of people get to meet each other,” said Boozer. “You want an easy environment for people to talk with each other. So, be sure to ask if the space will be quiet.” If needed, make sure that the establishment you choose is equipped with AV gear that can support slideshows, speeches, toasting,
110 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
roasting and/or announcements so that your entire crowd can easily see and hear. If they do not have the necessary equipment, confirm that they will allow you to bring in your own and that the electrical outlets can support the equipment you bring in.
SEAR at ATLANTA MARRIOTT MARQUIS
Depending on the size of your dinner, it may be helpful to set a pre-determined menu. If you have a smaller group, you could work with the restaurant to provide more choices for your guests. And don’t forget the little touches that make every event unique. Although private dinners tend to be smaller in size, you can still incorporate little details with big impact like centerpieces, tags on gift items, custom napkins and even place cards. Escort cards are often used at large events because they let guests know where they will be seated. In the same way, place cards are an excellent detail for smaller dinners. There are so many opportunities to make a private restaurant experience your own unique creation. Determining your particular needs will enable you to find the perfect place to throw your next party. Whether you choose a quaint bistro or a larger eatery for your event, remember that throwing a private dinner is your chance to make a meal into a memorable experience.
TIp :: don’t forget the details. place cards are an excellent detail for smaller dinner parties.