An Equestrian Complex was the perfect venue for the (self-awarded) 2018 Party of the Year. And not just because the birthday boy happens to own this vast and magnificent property. This purpose-built facility usually plays host to endurance rides, eventing and other equestrian disciplines. But for this 50th birthday celebration, Mask organised a different kind of endurance event…
We wanted to highlight the stunning features of the property, wowing guests with both the experience and surroundings. Those who attended the multi-day celebration stayed overnight in luxury glamping tents so they could party to their hearts’ content and enjoy the beauty and peace of the property in the morning.
To tie in with the spirit of the property, we went with a funky, eclectic Victorian Equestrian Country Club vibe (yes, we invented Funky Victorian Equestrian as a theme, and it was a winner!). Our aim was to delight and surprise, so it was important to have entertainment that created the awe-factor for guests.
Gorgeous girls on stilts and a short-statured man (all dressed in Victorian garb) greeted the guests on arrival, setting the tone for the frivolity to come. Beautiful garden nymphs flitted about the party, delighting guests throughout.
The kids were well-taken care of, with a nanny service ensuring parents could enjoy the festivities, knowing their little ones were safe and having just as good a time as they were (no whining can-we-go-home-nows to be heard). The kids had an amazing time trying to figure out the Magician’s tricks, having their faces painted, their caricatures drawn and coming away with their own balloon-twisting art.
An Alien DJ spun disco tunes whilst mingling with the guests on his Segway (yep, you read that right. Alien DJ. On a Segway. You know you want one). As the evening wore on, disco tunes gave way to an INXS medley as soundtrack to the amazing laser and aerial show (trapeze artists and INXS are a definite perfect combo). A fire and whip show with a contortionist had guests awestruck and on the edge of their seats, the fire twirling looked incredible against the night sky.
Not even the HUGE Sunshine Coast summer storm that hit could dampen the spirits of this celebration. Entertainers and guests all handled the sudden change of plans with aplomb, as we moved everyone under the sperry tent much earlier than planned. Just a little re-jig of the run sheet, some super professional and flexible entertainers (not just because they had a contortionist) and everyone managed to stay dry and avoid the downpour!
Guests were eager to get to their dinner tables and enjoy the sumptuous meal, as they’d been catching the scent of it all afternoon. All the meats were cooked in a smoker in the garden party area to tickle the senses. And it did not disappoint once it was plated, the meals were absolutely delicious.
While the adults rocked out to a fantastic party band after dinner, the kids settled into their custom made cinema with their popcorn for some nice, quiet chill time.
Of course, the revelry was captured in many hilarious photo-booth memories. Though we doubt anyone will be forgetting this party anytime soon.
