Reflections of Dîner en Blanc DC

In August, I attended Dîner en Blanc DC. It was the 6^th edition to grace the streets of DC. I have had the opportunity to attend every Dîner en Blanc DC since its inception. From my point of view, this year’s experience lived up to the magic that the Dîner en Blanc pop up dinners always hope to inspire.

For many, Dîner en Blanc is an experience of a lifetime. There’s a reason why this little white party that started in Paris over 30 years ago has spawned events in over 80 cities in 30 countries. To date, over 130,000 participants have experienced a Dîner en Blanc. However for some others Dîner en Blanc has many negative connotations. Citing reasons such as “It’s pretentious,” “There are too many rules,” ”It’s a lot of work” and even “It’s exclusionary.” Often these are comments from people who’ve never participated in the event or may have had a bad experience. (The Nat’s Park location last year had some challenges and soured some people.)

As a veteran of multiple Dîner en Blancs, I have had the opportunity to attend as a guest, table leader group leader, media representative and VIP guest. And not only have I enjoyed the events in in DC, I was also able to attend the inaugural Dîner en Blanc in Las Vegas. Needless to say I have a unique perspective on this special secret white party pop up phenomenon. As a result, I thought I’d break down my thoughts on the negative comments.

It’s pretentious

The invitation comes inviting you to a secret pop up dinner party…. no location, dress code all white, fancy dinner on china complete with tablescape. The invitation can be daunting but it adds to the cache of the event. Let’s face it anyone can run to KFC, pick up a bucket of chicken, throw down a blank and chow down.

The idea of something a little more elaborate makes the event something of an occasion. Plus the requirement to wear white was originally done as a means of identifying the guests to the party. Original founder Francois Pasquier invited a group of friends to dinner at the Bois de Boulogne in Paris. He had them wear white so his friends can find each other.

There are too many rules

The rules are in places to add a bit of uniformity to hard to pull of event with a multitude of people. Table requirements of being a certain size enables planners to adjust for a large crowd in a limited space. This year’s Dîner en Blanc DC hosted 5,000 people. Wearing all white, not cream, beige or even tan makes the spectacle of the pop-up party much more special especially since the idea is to hold the event in an iconic location. What a view it creates!

Furthermore rules also help the event to move a little more efficiently. Sure from time to time there are glitches but these rules help communications among thousands of people go a little smoother. Guests know when the waving of the napkins happen, it’s the start of dinner. Similarily, when the sparklers are lit it’s the end of dinner and time for dancing. Non-verbal communication at its best.

It’s a lot work

True it CAN be a bit of work. After all, you carting you own table, chairs, dinner, drinks and tablescape to a place you have no idea of where it is. However this undertaking can be as simple or as elaborate as you like and still remain elegant. Veterans of past Dîner en Blancs often band together to create over the top tablescapes or displays that are truly spectacular. Some plan group meals and share the responsibilities so the end result is quite magnificent yet no one person has to do all the work. Others take a more simplier route by renting out tables and chairs and having their meals catered. It’s all about creating an atmosphere so you can have the most enjoyable evening possible.

It’s exclusionary

Truthfully it is an invitation only event. However that’s not because the organizers are trying to keep people out. It’s simply a matter of limited space. Each year Dîner en Blanc in DC has grown larger allowing more people a chance to attend this popular event. To be invited you have to have attended a previous dinner or be invited by someone who has. However there is also a waiting list for those who don’t meet these requirements. In fact, the 2020 waiting list is already open.

Personally, I find that the dinner is one of the most diverse events of the season. This is one of the things I love most about attending. To see a variety of faces all enjoying an evening of good food and fun really warms my heart.

The other interesting thing is how friendly people really are. For newbies, the event is designed for guests to get to know each other. The invites are done in twos where guest sit across from each other. Setting their officially sanctioned sized table next to another duo, it’s easy to meet new people. In my experience people end up sharing meals, providing extra utensils if something’s forgotten and end up forging new friendships. I’ve become great friends with folks I met at the very first Dîner en Blanc DC. That’s what’s made my experience even more special.

Dressing for Dîner en Blanc

Fortunately for me, this wasn’t my first time at the rodeo so I had all the pieces for an all white look. The challenge for attending an all white event in August is finding thing because most stores have already cleaned out for summer and stocked up for fall. My advice if you’re planning to attend your first Dîner en Blanc, shop early or hit thrift stores. My suit is actually not a suit. They just happen to be white pieces.

Blazer – Tallia | Pants – Gucci (I’ve had mine for years) | White shirt Saks (great go to dress shirt for under $40) | Bow tie – Amazon | White sneakers – Gucci (These are 10 years old!)

Dîner en Blanc DC 2019

For this year’s Dîner en Blanc, guest took over Freedom Plaza. There’s something to be said about setting up dinner right in the middle of the street with a view of the Capital. Trust me, 5,000 dressed in their most fabulous whites enjoying a night a great food, friends and fun is my idea of a great time. Don’t believe me? Check out my highlights! Have you attended a Dîner en Blanc? Drop in a comment let me know your thoughts.