Marie Antoinette's

Dear Marie,

Because I am a huge fan of 18th century life at the court of France, I decided Versailles could make a good theme for my birthday party.

I will try to make it out as a kind of role play, and so I chose a historical character for each of my friends and wrote each a description they should follow. Some of my friends promised they would perform music and poetry from the 18th century and I am working on the menu. The costumes are a problem, since most of us are not so good at making dresses by ourselves, but we will figure something out. But what else could I do to bring all the wonders of the court of Versailles to my birthday party? Any ideas?

Please help me to organize a good party!
Thank you in advance,
Yours,
Chandrani


What a fun event you have planned! I am opening this question up to all readers because everyone here is very creative and I just know will have some wonderful ideas to infuse this party with an 18th century vibe. Here are some breif ideas:

Atmosphere
One thing to consider is atmosphere! Elegant candles are always a scene setter, just be sure that they are safely placed where they wont be disturbed. I am a fan of rooms with low lighting if the party is in the evening.

Entertainment
What is more proper than playing a game of chance or card game at a table of friends? Some 18th century games would be sure to get the party going! Perhaps you can set up something like cavagnole or faro. If you want a more modern game that is quirky try Guillotine.

Cake and drink
See if you can find some sparkling grape juice and those cute faux champagne glasses! You can set them up in a tower and pour the bubbly drinks all night! The tower of glasses will look very luxe and your guest will feel glamours sipping their drinks! And of course, fancy pastries. mmm.

Costume
If you cant manage to find or put together some simple big skirts, you can always pull things off with accessories and great hair! Tease your hair up and have your girl's do the same, maybe buy some Aqua-net for the occasion. Stick some feather plumes in it and maybe some ribbon. Pick up some cheap glitzy costume jewelry to add a bit of opulence to your ensemble! And pick up some pretty fans, if they are not pretty decorate them yourself.

I received a What Would Marie Do question that I thought was so fun I would leave it open for all of you to help answer! Let's see how many solutions and ideas we can get here! Leave your ideas in the comments section! Links to pictures are welcome!!

It has come to my attention that a friend of mine is involving herself with a truly scandalous man who could ruin her good reputation. I fear everyone can see this man's true character except the subject in question. Am I being truly unfashionable by interfering in my friend's affair? Would it better to let occurrences run their course despite the possibility of her heart and reputation being tarnished? Or is this a case where I must interfere?

Yours,
Dumbfounded in Durham

Dear Dumbfounded in Durham,

You are stuck in the ever uncomfortable classic foolish friend scenario. Let's face it, Marie Antoinette had a good heart but she could be quite stubborn about ideas and opinions she formed especially on people. If a close friend or loved one was in fact becoming involved with a man off ill repute, Antoinette would let it be known!

Always friendly and courteous to her dearest friends, something would be said in private. Whether or not the friend would take queenly advice, is dependent on their own tastes. But if the relationship continued Antoinette most likely would not be involved in any way with the fellow. No dinners, parties or visiting hours would be spent on him.

Devoted to the friend, hopefully she would see that the choice was not in her best interest. You did not choose him so you have no obligation to entertain him. Without being rude, gracefully avoid the indecent fellow without letting him waste your time. With due time she will see the red flags, and realize friends make incredible character guides!