2019 Wrap Up: The Most Popular Party Trends

We couldn’t think of a better way to wrap up the decade with a review of the hottest party and entertainment trends of the final (and we think BEST) year of the 10’s: 2019! We love looking back on what was “in” the last 10 years and take guesses on what we can expect to see in the next year and upcoming decade. Let’s jump right into our list!

1. Pantone’s Color of the Year: Living Coral

Pantone’s pinkish-orange pick for the 2019 Color of the Year was chosen for its “animating and life-affirming” hue which “energizes and enlivens with a softer edge,” according to their website. We loved the fresh, vibrant hue of this last year’s color, and we’re super stoked to see it incorporated into so many of our events’ decor.

2. Charcuterie boards & grazing tables.

Charcuterie boards have always been a thing, but in 2019 they BLEW UP! And also transformed into something new, referred to as a “grazing table.” Think charcuterie board, except it spans the length of an entire table! Basically, the best invention of the decade. Not only are these tables extremely aesthetically pleasing with the thoughtful placement of meats, cheeses, fruits, crackers, etc, but they are also super convenient for guests. You just walk up, put what you want on a plate, and enjoy! There’s almost guaranteed to be something for everyone. Yes, it has the potential to get a little messy and chaotic, but we think it’s worth it for the Instagram photo alone.

Some tips for making this a success and not a hot mess:

Draw up a “layout” for how you are going to style and set up the table or board.
Provide plenty of plates, bowls, and utensils.
Have more than one knife available for each spread.
Provide utensils for a hands-free selection of the food to avoid contamination.
Cut and slice whatever you can into single-serve portions, don’t rely on guests to have to divide up anything or the line will be held up all day.
Cover the table until it is time to serve to preserve freshness.

3. Drapery.

Clever and classy draping was majorly in for 2019. Thoughtful curtains can help shape and divide up the space to help guide guests to where they are supposed to go. You could play it safe and simple by draping curtains sparingly over walkways or archways, or go big and cover all the walls (even the ceiling)!

4. Balloon installations.

Balloons — who would’ve thought? It’s true! Fantastical balloon art displays are sweeping the nation. These displays are usually created using different sizes and colors of balloons and other objects, tied together to create one big art piece. They’re fun and playful, yet gorgeous and elegant at the same time. These unique displays were popularized by artists Charles Pétillon and Geronimo, but quickly became a commercial phenomenon when they began popping up at weddings and various events. The only downside is that they’re not great for the environment. But you know what is…?

5. Sustainable party decor.

Sustainable party decor is in! Unfortunately, there is a big emphasis on convenience when it comes to throwing a party or event. You always see articles and blog posts stressing disposable, single-use everything for quick and easy cleanup. The huge downside to this is the massive negative impact that these single-use plastics and other items have on our planet. What was used for one night of entertainment must now sit in a landfill (or worse — our oceans or wilderness!) pretty much forever. But those hopping on the trend of sustainable party decor are aiming to change that. Here are some ways you can incorporate sustainable items into your event:

Use compostable disposable plates, napkins, utensils, etc.
Send out plantable invitations! Yes, this is a thing! Companies like Botanical Paperworks create a biodegradable, seed-infused paper for all of your invitation, signage, etc needs.
Use decor made from rice paper or recycled paper.
If you want to use confetti, opt for the biodegradable kind (and try to avoid glitter and anything made from small flakes of plastic)!
Speaking of which, skip the traditional glitter if you can and try out the biodegradable kind. It exists and it doesn’t pollute the environment!
If candles are involved, go with the kind made from beeswax. Even better, choose a company that uses sustainable beekeeping practices!

6. Bright, colorful, neon lighting.

Futuristic, neon lighting at events marks the rise of the cyberpunk aesthetic that made its way into our hearts this past year. While the term “neon” may conjure up images of slightly tacky 80’s decor, this is NOT your mother’s neon. We’re talking sleek, subtle lighting choices that enhance the event without being too loud.