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 dress
- Shamrock accessories
- Irish step-dancing shoes
- St. Paddy’s hats
Team Bob (English):
- Tweed jackets and bowler hats
- Tea party dresses
- Union Jack accessories
- Fake monocles or mustaches
POTLUCK (Real or Virtual) IDEAS:
Encourage guests to “bring” themed dishes (or post pictures if online):
Team Bing (Irish):
- Irish soda bread
- Shepherd’s pie
- Colcannon
- Shamrock shakes
- Bailey’s cupcakes (or mocktail version)
- Mint Oreo Trifle
Team Bob (English):
- Cucumber sandwiches
- Bangers and mash
- English trifle
- Victoria sponge cake
- Easy Buttermilk Scones with Clotted Cream
- Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones
- Earl Grey tea
ENTERTAINMENT ZONE:
Create a viewing area or link list with classic Bing & Bob “Road to…” films. Let guests vote on their favorite!
- Road to Morocco
- Road to Rio
- Road to Bali
- High 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 shamrocks
- The other with Big Ben and London buses
- Add 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 films
- Guess the Bing/Bob Line: Match famous quotes to the right guy
BOOK 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 bookmark
- Mini printable from “Bella’s Top Wedding Tips”
- Vintage-style photo filters/presets or a link to Canva frames inspired by the story
