Picture Perfect Party Plan: “Bing vs. Bob Edition”

If you enjoyed my novel, Picture Perfect, (Book one in the Weddings by Design series) have I got a fun idea for you! This book features characters who love two real-life entertainers: Bing Crosby and Bob Hope.

If you’ve read the story, you know that the family celebrates Christmas in style each year with a Bing and Bob party. I had that in mind when I came up with the idea for this party. This would be a fun project for your book club or a handful of friends who loved the book.

So, what would a Picture Perfect Party look like? Let’s break it down:

THEME:

This one’s a given! The them would be a whimsical Irish vs. English showdown inspired by Picture Perfect‘s split-room party and the classic duo, Bing Crosby (Irish) and Bob Hope (English). Guests pick a side and dress accordingly!

INVITATION COPY:

You’re invited to the Picture Perfect Party!
Pick your team—Bing (Irish) or Bob (English)—and come dressed for the isle you love most! Whether you’re donning tweed and sipping tea or sporting green and munching on soda bread, come ready for music, movies, and mayhem.
Expect laughter, rivalry, and a whole lotta wedding shenanigans.
RSVP today and get your camera ready—this is going to be Picture Perfect!

COSTUME IDEAS:

Team Bing (Irish):

Green attire or Celtic dressShamrock accessoriesIrish step-dancing shoesSt. Paddy’s hats

Team Bob (English):

Tweed jackets and bowler hatsTea party dressesUnion Jack accessoriesFake monocles or mustachesPOTLUCK (Real or Virtual) IDEAS:

Encourage guests to “bring” themed dishes (or post pictures if online):

Team Bing (Irish):

Irish soda breadShepherd’s pieColcannonShamrock shakesBailey’s cupcakes (or mocktail version)Mint Oreo Trifle

Team Bob (English):

Cucumber sandwichesBangers and mashEnglish trifleVictoria sponge cakeEasy Buttermilk Scones with Clotted CreamStrawberry Lemon Cream SconesEarl Grey teaENTERTAINMENT ZONE:

Create a viewing area or link list with classic Bing & Bob “Road to…” films. Let guests vote on their favorite!

Road to MoroccoRoad to RioRoad to BaliHigh Society (with Bing & Frank!)White Christmas (even if it’s not the season!)

Bonus: Include music playlists with Bing’s crooning and some Bob Hope comedy clips.

PHOTO BOOTH (Real or Virtual):

Set up a photo backdrop with Irish and English props:

One side with rolling green hills and shamrocksThe other with Big Ben and London busesAdd fun printable props: teacups, Guinness pints, vintage cameras, veils

Have guests pose and vote for Picture Perfect Photographer of the Night.

GAMES & ACTIVITIES:Photographer Face-Off: Post two photos and vote “Who Shot it Best?”Bridezilla Bingo: Based on Hannah’s chaotic clients (use scenes from the book!)Wedding Word Scramble: Words related to wedding photography or classic filmsGuess the Bing/Bob Line: Match famous quotes to the right guyBOOK DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

(Perfect for wrapping up the night or starting conversation)

What do you think motivated Hannah to win Bella over so fiercely?How did the Irish/English rivalry mirror Hannah and Drew’s dynamic?In what ways did humor help Hannah cope with stress?What was your favorite scene involving the “Bridezilla” client?How did Bella’s presence in this book feel different than in previous stories?FAVORS:

Send guests home with (or email/download if virtual):

A printable “Say Cheese!” camera charm bookmarkMini printable from “Bella’s Top Wedding Tips”Vintage-style photo filters/presets or a link to Canva frames inspired by the story

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