Throwing a party that feels personal transforms a generic gathering into a truly memorable experience. It celebrates the individual(s) at its centre, elicits an emotional connection with guests, and ensures true authenticity.
I’m incredibly lucky to spend my days planning all kinds of events. The thread that connects them all is the emphasis we place on making every celebration feel personal and unique. One of the greatest joys of my job is watching clients react to the magic we’ve created on their behalf. It’s vital that magic feels completely individual. I want you to walk into the room and see yourself in every detail.
Our brains turn novel experiences into vivid memories much more effectively than mundane, copy and paste events. So, rather than relying on generic themes, focus on the personality and/or shared history of the individual(s) you’re celebrating. Imagine you’re telling the story of who they are and what they love through the event you’re creating.
Here are some suggestions to make your party feel personal…
Small details can have a big impact, so don’t be afraid to get really granular in your execution of a personalised theme. Sprinkle their passions throughout the décor and look for ways to tie-in their favourite hobbies, interests, and any activities they love. Curate photo displays and lean into memories and nostalgia. Decorate using their favourite colours, flowers, or props that capture their personality.
I think it probably goes without saying that you should choose a menu that reflects their taste and/or includes their favourite food. You could also use food to represent a location they love or have a strong connection to. For example, perhaps they grew up on the coast, so a menu that celebrates seafood would be perfect. Or maybe they’re travelled extensively and serving Thai food would bring back happy memories of their gap year.
Again, consider the details. You could include their favourite condiment on each table or serve miniature versions of a dish they love in the form of canapes.
Signature cocktails are a delicious personal touch. Ask your mixologist to work with their favourite spirit or a flavour they enjoy and name it after something personal to them. Nicknames and inside jokes are a good place to start!
If cocktails aren’t’ their thing, make sure the bar carries their favourite tipple and/or get creative with the drink menu. Wine connoisseur? Design a wine flight to accompany the meal. Craft ale enthusiast? Order a custom brew or print personalised labels for cans and bottles. Gin aficionado? Bespoke gin bar it is! Always the first in line for shots? You know what to do!
Scenting the space is a powerful way to add a personal touch. Go for their signature scent, a favourite floral blend, or a fragrance that evokes part of their story. For example, Jo Malone’s Green Tomato Vine would be a great choice for someone who loves to garden while Chase and Wonder’s Library is ideal for an avid reader. Both of these are available as candles and reed diffusers, so you can scent a small or large space with ease.
Music is incredibly personal. Whether you curate a playlist of their favourite tunes or hire live musicians, it’s one of the easiest ways to weave someone’s personality throughout an event. Visual elements add another exciting layer. Consider screening a slideshow of photos, video messages, or even a selection of clips from their favourite TV shows and movies.
Need some professional help? At Benessamy, we’re passionate about planning joyful celebrations. Discover our Party Planning Services or get in touch to arrange an introductory call.
Val x
Photo credit: Marta May Photography
Val Mattinson is the founder and Head Planner at Benessamy, specialising in luxury weddings and beautifully curated celebrations across the UK and the Caribbean. With over 15 years of experience, Val is known for her calm, reassuring approach and meticulous attention to detail — supporting couples and hosts who want an unforgettable experience without the overwhelm.
If you’re beginning your planning journey and would like expert guidance, get in touch to arrange an introductory call. Val would love to help you create a celebration that feels thoughtful, joyful and effortlessly seamless.
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At Benessamy, we believe true luxury feels refined, heartfelt and beautifully personal. Every detail of your wedding flows seamlessly and your guests feel genuinely looked after.
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