Halloween party

A masked ball is much more than just a party. When planned and executed right, it can thrill and enthrall one's guests like nothing else. As they say, the devil is always in the details. 

Masquerades originated in Europe, namely in French and Italian courts where the nobility wore elaborate costumes complete with masks, played games, danced, ate lavish spreads of food and drinks. A hedonistic affair, it celebrated excess in every way. 

A Venetian ball requires everyone to wear costumes and masks inspired by the Venetian Carnival. Popular the world over for its elaborate costumes and unique masks, it is a great theme to choose where guests can get inspired and be creative with their costumes.

An elegant, historical theme that has European influences can also be a fun theme. Guests can incorporate different elements and draw inspiration from old European art and culture. Another interesting theme would be a fusion of the old world and the new. For this theme elements from the past can be juxtaposed with futuristic details. 

Next, choose a venue that will do justice to the theme. A banquet hall with high ceilings and spacious grounds is ideal where guests can mingle freely. The most important detail following these is the décor. This factor alone can make or break the party. 

Think elegant, sweeping drapes, diffused lighting that will add to the atmosphere, lavish decorative elements on the walls and candles in high candelabras. Tables should have oversized centrepieces consisting of elegant, glamorous details such as feathers, pearls, crystals and more. Depending on the theme include elements such as masks, paintings and flowers. The overall feel should be sensuous, provocative and sinful. Excess is the name of the game so let your imagination run wild. 

Next up is the music. 

Choose a sassy playlist that will coax your guests to get in the mood for indulgence. Make sure it remains flowing throughout the night. A good mix of slow and upbeat numbers will keep guests grooving all night long. The DJ you select must be briefed ahead to understand the feel of the party.   

Lastly, the food and drink are crucial. Food should be, again, sumptuous and elegant that will match the overall mood. Delicious canapés, stylish hors d'oeuvres such as stuffed mushroom, tomato crostinis and bruschettas will go really well. 

Bigger bites such as shrimp cocktails, soup shots, melon and prosciutto and beef skewers will keep your guests satiated all night long.  

Make sure everything is bite-sized and served on skewers. A sit-down meal is not encouraged for masked balls as in the past party goers refused to eat heavy meals in their elaborate costumes. Drinks should include mocktails, and juices.