What’s one thing that could make 1920’s prohibition era better?
Booze. Lots and lots of booze.
With all the charm of the 20s, Michael Arenella’s 11th Annual Jazz Age Lawn Party Sponsored by St-Germain was almost like being transported back in time, except with modern day advancements. Imagine flappers with smartphones. What could be a stranger combination? For the past 11 years Michael Arenella has hosted his famous Jazz Age Lawn Party on Governors Island to pay tribute to a simpler and yet more glamorous time.
The party featured food and liquor booths as well as small boutiques offering vintage clothing and accessories from cuff links to headbands, a photo booth atop a moon and two live orchestras, one for predominantly VIP and Gatsby guests and another for the general public. Both orchestras were loads of fun, but the main accompanied a dance and bathing babes and beaus competition. VIPs sat on white chairs at white tables adorned with white floral centerpieces and had access to an open bar featuring signature 20s inspired St.Germain cocktails. This year for the first time, St-Germain teamed up with Homepolish to transport guests to two uniquely-different 1920’s moments – the “Bijoux” and “This Side of Paradise.”
The live performances were also a treat and added an authentic quality to the event. While VIPs lounged behind the orchestra, the general masses relaxed on picnic blankets with the most ornate spreads I’ve ever seen. It looked as if most people were having high tea with table settings, silverware and accents. The real highlight of the lawn party, aside from the music and food were the outfits, get ups and ensembles. Beaded dresses and feather headbands were popular among the ladies and baggy khaki trousers and vests were common among men. After a few hours- hell after a few minutes- I knew I’d be coming back next year.
As my friend and I were leaving governors island, my friend stopped and asked some strangers for a lighter, who mentioned the view looked similar to a George Suerat painting. To which my friend responded, the whole scene looked like Sunday in the Park with George. If you’ve had even a mild interest in art, chances are you’re familiar with this paining of 19th century men and women relaxing by the water with Parasols in hand. While the crowd was much livelier than the subjects in the painting the comparison is pretty accurate. One of the strangers turned out to be Jonathan Dunn, the costume designer for Boardwalk Empire. One can only imagine the other creatives present that day. This two day affair absolutely can’t be missed, but in case you were late to the party there will be another session on August 13th and 14th, so don’t be late!
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