Most everyone will agree that old drive-in movie theaters are filled with timeless magic and romance. Re-create this classic, retro atmosphere by turning your backyard into a private vintage movie theater for your friends and loved ones. Using a projector and something as simple as a large bed sheet, you and your guests can relax under the stars and enjoy a private movie experience none of you will ever forget.
Invitations
Rather than sending out basic party invitations, invest in customized stationery that gives your guests an exciting peak at excitement you have planned for them. Use a vintage “playbill” style to announce your evening’s entertainment. For a more creative twist, create “ticket invitations” and slip them into a small box of popcorn. Your guests will be shocked and thrilled when they receive the mystery package in their afternoon mail.
Decorations
Although your party will be held outdoors, plan to use plenty of vintage-style decorations to create a warm and classic atmosphere. Hang fairy lights or large, vintage bulbs over your patio area to create subtle, theater-like lighting. In addition to your light strands, stings of threaded popcorn complete the playful movie motif. Hang threaded popcorn with your lights or drape them across your refreshment table as a creative runner.
If possible, consider investing in bold neon lighting to embellish your vintage motif; these flashy signs hail back to shops, dinners, and clubs of the early 1900’s. Although basic neon signs are fairly simple to make, some of the best and most dynamic signs are available from decorative stores or online vendors.
Refreshments and Goodies
No movie theater experience would be complete without plenty of goodies and refreshments. Be sure plenty of traditional movie theater candy is available for everyone’s sweet tooth! In additional to common movie theater treats such as licorice, chocolate, and M&M’s, create a hybrid dessert such as popcorn cupcakes using mini marshmallows.
For a more substantial movie-goer meal, cheeseburger sliders and hot french fries are perfect for a tasty evening. Serve on vintage drive-in meal trays or classic baskets.
As a tribute to the old fashion soda shops of the 40’s and 50’s, create your very own ice cream soda for your evening refreshments. Set out a variety of soda flavors such as cherry, cream, orange, and root beer and serve with vanilla ice cream, cherries, and chocolate syrup. Your guests will love making a personalized soda to accompany their meal and snacks.
No movie-goer should be without plenty of popcorn. Provide personalized popcorn baggies for each guest. Set out shakers of various flavors such as garlic, cheese, and spicy barbecue. This ensures everyone has their favorite popcorn flavor.
Entertainment
The most important part of your evening’s entertainment is the movie you choose. Whether a modern-day comedy, steamy romance, or an old-fashioned B-Movie, select a choice you know every guest will love. To embrace the vintage flavor of the evening, consider a suspenseful classic such as one of Alfred Hitchcock’s films. Your guests will be on the edge of their seats as they enjoy an evening of thrills and chills from the “Master of Suspense!”
Guest Favors
After an evening at the movies, send your guests home with a warm thank-you. Decorative movie-themed buttons are simple but fun guest favors to help your friends and loved ones remember the fun they shared with you. For a tasty and heartfelt guest treat, say goodbye with a personalized mason gift jar such as a “Thanks for Popping By” popcorn kernel jar.
Summer evenings are the perfect time to host barbecues and backyard parties. Take advantage of the warm weather and starry nights to transform your backyard into the perfect movie theater! Your guests will experience a night out at the movies in a special, unforgettable way.
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