photo by Sarah Dean
The “Art of the Party” transcends the mere coordination of guests and refreshments.
It’s the alchemy of ambiance, the curation of experiences and the infusion of personal touches that transform a gathering into an unforgettable affair.
The magic of a party lies not only in the venue’s grandeur but in the meticulous attention to detail that elevates every aspect of the experience… although a great venue only takes that experience to the next level.
Rachel Larson, owner of Fika Coffee KC, emphasizes, “I believe intentionality, connection and being personable are essential for making an event unforgettable. What stands out to people is the lengths someone is willing to go to make their event unique and personable.”
From the moment guests arrive, an artful party envelops them in an atmosphere carefully crafted to delight the senses and ignite the spirit of camaraderie. Whether it’s the scent of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air, the sight of bespoke cocktails being skillfully concocted or the sounds from a live band that gets guests moving, each element contributes to the symphony of sensations that defines the event.
Paige White, owner/operator of KC Cocktail Company, The Snickety Snack Bar and KC Scoop Coupe, knows this well. Whether she’s doing high-profile events like Travis Kelce’s fundraiser or small family gatherings, the goal is to offer hospitality that is memorable and delicious.
“Anyone can hire somebody to sling drinks or plate food, but we try to make sure each and every one of our guests has an interactive experience.”
Yet, beyond the aesthetics lies the heart of the celebration — the human connection forged amidst the revelry. It’s the laughter shared over stories, the joy sparked by unexpected encounters and the warmth of genuine hospitality that leave an indelible mark on the memories of all who attend.
Emily Leonard, owner and lead coordinator of Emilane Events, says those moments are easier to achieve with intentionality.
In the hands of artisans like local coffee or cocktail cart owners who weave their craft into the fabric of the occasion, every sip becomes a moment of communion, every interaction a spark of delight.
“Picking foods that make you happy, music that makes you move and experiential opportunities to capture moments of the day, those are my favorite ways to make the day extra special.”
Leonard added, “Each couple, each event, they should be uniquely them. So, I think when you go in knowing that and then lean into whatever makes it the most ‘you,’ that is what is so special. I always tell our couples that you will never regret making the memory, you might regret skipping it or missing it though. Just make the memory and worry about the rest never.”
The artisans of celebration — the venue hosts, event planners, caterers and vendors — will tell you that the true measure of success lies not in extravagance but in the ability to create moments of magic that linger long after the last guest has departed.
Through their passion, creativity and dedication, they remind us that the art of the party is more than a fleeting spectacle — it’s a testament to the power of human connection to elevate the ordinary into the extraordinary.
MIND THE VENUE
Whether you are on a committee to plan a gala, you’ve been charged with pulling off the employee holiday party, you’re determined to throw a family get-together to remember or you’ve got some other special event in the works, the Kansas City Metro is ripe with event venue options for you to explore.
Keep these tips in mind to help you choose the perfect venue for your event:
- Determine your budget.
- Estimate the number of guests. How many cars will those guests arrive in? You’ll need to consider parking, too.
- Consider the type of event, its style, timing and location. E.g. Formal, fun and unique, family-oriented, indoor, outdoor, season of the year, daytime, nighttime, weekday, weekend, Midtown, downtown, suburbs, etc. These factors will help you eliminate the venues that won’t work for you.
- Do your research. Tour venues on your final list, read client reviews, ask about all fees and insurance requirements and talk with the venue about the activities you want to have in the space.
- Book the venue early. Experts recommend booking venues six to nine months in advance. The earlier the better.
VENUES
21c Museum Hotel
Welcome to 21c Museum Hotel, where hospitality meets contemporary art in the historic Savoy Hotel and Grill building. Experience a unique blend of art-filled event spaces, exceptional service, and culinary excellence at The Savoy, awarded the Best Historic Restaurant in America in 2023 by the Historic Hotels of America. 21c is an ideal venue for weddings, corporate events, reunions, holiday parties, and more, offering a unique and welcoming atmosphere for every occasion. Learn more at www.21cMuseumHotel.com/KansasCity.
LongHouse Visitor Center
Be among the first to gather at LongHouse Visitor Center, the stunning new venue within the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. LongHouse offers 21,000 square feet of versatile indoor space, surrounded by picturesque outdoor settings. Perfect for weddings, corporate events and community gatherings, LongHouse promises a one-of-a-kind experience blending sophistication with natural beauty. Our team is here to make your event exceptional. Ready to book? Call 913-685-3604 or visit opkansas.org/LongHouse.
Warwick Theatre, Home to Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre
The historic Warwick Theatre at 3927 Main Street in Kansas City, Mo., will be available for bookings in January 2025. Home to The Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre, it is customizable for private parties and corporate events and accommodates up to 300.
The Warwick was built in 1912 by the Boller Brothers as a silent film house. Currently, rebuilding is underway following fire damage in February 2024. For information, visit metkc.org or call 816-569-3226.
Rosehill Gardens Winery and Event Space
Rosehill Gardens Winery and Event Space in Martin City offers two stunning venues: a Winery & Courtyard for up to 75 and a Patio for up to 200. This beautiful oasis features a greenhouse-turned-winery, courtyard with a stage, pergolas, and extensive landscaping. Enjoy nature and good times at Rosehill. Visit Rosehillgardens.com/events.
