Men take center stage at this festive gathering just perfect for your guy

For Father’s Day, throw a dinner bash worthy of an encore. This gentlemen’s gathering goes old school with vintage record albums as decoration to spotlight the rock ’n’ roll theme. Even the menu gets a special nod to live music.

“I wanted to create a party that was all about my husband,” says Angela DiVincenti Babin of Angela Marie Events. “Daniel has always loved music and is starting to collect old records. Well, what a great idea, I thought. A rock party!”

Babin joined forces with Justin McDonald, owner of French Market Bistro, and came up with a menu featuring all of Daniel’s favorite foods. The duo created a clever feast with rock-themed apps and entrees paired with Daniel’s favorite cocktail—an old-fashioned. A leather overlay created the ideal foundation for the tablescape. Eagles albums served as chargers, and bright orange floral arrangements popped against the brown and black backdrop. Records dangled above the scene in a celebratory chandelier. Guests left the evening with favors keeping with the theme: “bourbon on the rocks,” consisting of rock candies and mini bottles of bourbon.

“This party was a total surprise for Daniel,” says Angela. “It was an intimate gathering of eight, and he was shocked when we walked in to see everyone. It was a blast.”

RESOURCES:
Photography: ELL Photography
Stylist and coordinator: Angela Marie Events
Food and venue: French Market Bistro
Cake and bourbon balls: Ambrosia Bakery
Invitation design: Rachael Lagarde and Sydney Morrison
Sign and menu: Sydney Morrison
Tablecloths: BBJ Linen
Flowers: Poppy and Mint
Whiskey barrels: Timeless Vintage Rental

New private rooms for parties are part of an ongoing expansion project at French Market Bistro on Highland, which has served diners in the same location for 20 years. The renovated space will feature a showcase kitchen in the center of the dining room as well as a temperature-controlled wine room.