Pompadour Ballroom at Hotel Cafe Royal, London
A summer party for the wedding industry
A Summer Party to Remember at Hotel Café Royal
Planning a summer party in the heart of London is always a delightful challenge, but when it’s for the crème de la crème of the wedding industry, it demands a certain flair and finesse. When I was asked to orchestrate a Summer in Ibiza themed party at the illustrious Hotel Café Royal, I knew we were in for an unforgettable evening. As a London wedding planner, bringing a slice of Ibiza to the Pompadour Ballroom was an exciting task, blending the vibrant, carefree spirit of the island with the grandeur of one of London's most iconic venues.
As the guests arrived, they were greeted with Aperol Spritz and champagne, the perfect start to an evening dedicated to relaxation and celebration. The Pompadour Ballroom, the largest event space at Hotel Café Royal, had been transformed into an all-green haven. The Grade II listed room, with its original ornate detailing and frescoes depicting scenes of love, provided a stunning backdrop for the festivities.
The standing reception format allowed for a dynamic and social atmosphere. Canapés, bowl foods, and various food stations catered to every palate. A jamon carving station, paying homage to our Ibiza theme, quickly became a guest favourite. Watching the masterful carving of the Spanish delicacy added an interactive and authentic touch that everyone loved.
No Ibiza-themed party is complete without a touch of sparkle. Our glitter artist was on hand to add a bit of dazzle to anyone looking to jazz up their summer outfits. The artist was a hit, with guests queuing up to add a bit of glitz and glam to their evening wear, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the terrace installation. As guests stepped out onto the pillared outdoor terrace, they were greeted by two large palm trees flanking a spectacular balloon installation. The balloon designer had meticulously incorporated palm leaves into the design, ensuring everything felt seamless and cohesive. It was a picture-perfect spot, especially with the panoramic views of Regent Street adding a unique urban contrast to our tropical theme.
Entertainment was provided by the Urban Soul Orchestra, performing their classic Ibiza sets. Their use of all-white instruments not only sounded incredible but also looked stunning, adding to the aesthetic of the evening. Their performance set the perfect mood, transporting everyone to the Balearic Islands, if only for a few hours.
We also had a photobooth set against a lush foliage backdrop, offering guests the chance to capture memories of the night. The photobooth was a constant hive of activity, with everyone eager to snap a picture and take home a memento of the fabulous evening.
To wrap up the night, we handed out cooling ice pops, a refreshing end to a warm summer evening. It was a small touch, but one that added to the overall experience, leaving everyone with a sweet taste and a smile.
As a London wedding planner, events like this showcase the versatility and creativity required in my line of work. The skills honed from planning weddings seamlessly transfer to other events, whether it’s a summer party, an engagement celebration, or a milestone birthday. Attention to detail, understanding client desires, and executing a vision flawlessly are universal aspects of any successful event.
Engagement parties, for instance, benefit from the same meticulous planning and personal touches that make weddings special. The ability to tell a couple's unique story through thoughtful design and curated experiences ensures their celebration is memorable and meaningful. Similarly, milestone birthdays, like Vibha and Karan's joint 40th at The Ned London, become more than just a party; they are a reflection of the individual's journey and achievements, celebrated with those they hold dear.
Summer parties, on the other hand, often call for a blend of sophistication and fun. Creating a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere, as we did at the Hotel Café Royal, requires balancing thematic elements with the venue’s inherent charm. The Pompadour Ballroom, with its Louis XVI style and frescoed ceilings, provided an opulent setting that beautifully contrasted with our vibrant Ibiza theme. The result was an evening that felt both luxurious and laid-back, a true testament to the versatility of the space and the creativity of the planning.
The Hotel Café Royal wedding and event spaces offer an unparalleled setting in London. The historic venue, with its rich history and prime location where St. James’, Mayfair, and Soho converge, is the perfect backdrop for any celebration. The Pompadour Ballroom, in particular, is a jewel, capable of hosting grand weddings, elegant receptions, and themed parties alike. Its ornate detailing and the outdoor terrace provide endless possibilities for creating unique and memorable events.
In essence, whether it's a Hotel Café Royal wedding or an Ibiza-themed summer party, the key to success lies in the details. Understanding the client's vision, incorporating personal touches, and ensuring every element works harmoniously are the hallmarks of effective planning. As a London wedding planner, these principles guide every project, ensuring each event, big or small, is executed to perfection.
Planning this summer party at Hotel Café Royal was a joy. It was a night filled with laughter, music, and the spirit of Ibiza, right in the heart of London. It demonstrated how the right planning and a touch of creativity could transform any space into a dream destination. Whether you're envisioning a grand wedding, an intimate engagement, or a lively summer party, with the right approach, anything is possible.
Design, Styling and Planning | Emma Jane Weddings
Photographer | David Christopher
Venue | Hotel Cafe Royal