Party in DC? Remember the Musicâ¦
With summer on its way, outdoor entertainment is back in vogue. Elite backyard barbecues… office parties… weddings… Grandma’s 80th birthday party back in her native Virginia. The Washington DC area is known for the finest entertaining in the nation… hip DJs, smooth dancing, exquisite food, and cool summer nights (not to mention some of the most best conversation to be had in the US).
Whatever your reason to get together, great hosts know that throwing a great party is about more than the food. Don’t forget to set the right atmosphere. Light candles, hang lanterns, rent a water fountain, invite the fireflies, bring in some songbirds…
If you can’t get the mood you need from natural sounds like waterfalls, rustling leaves, and lovebirds (…and you don’t want your guests to fall into a meditative trance), throw in some music! Music can invite friendliness and gloss over awkward gaps in conversation. The right song played by an intuitive DJ can provide the perfect opportunity for a shy person to dance with the one she or he secretly desires.
Make sure that the music you select is appropriate to the surrounding. Playing “Can’t buy Me Love” at a posh Cinderella wedding might not sound quite right, particularly if the bride is from a humble family and she’s marrying the local millionaire’s son. Don’t over think it. But do be aware of the power of music in creating an atmosphere.
Each tune, each measure of music creates a feeling and an ambiance for the party you are hosting or helping organize. Get some musical friends to help you with the music, or hire a good DJ. Remember that not all DJs are equal. Some are surprisingly affordable but still offer white glove service. There are even one or two world-class DJs in the Baltimore, Virginia, and Washington DC area.
So whether you’re dreaming of a White House lawn bowling party or a homespun family reunion, keep it simple. Relax. Delegate. And let yourself flow into the friendly ambiance of the party. Happy entertaining!