Great parties

This year's event marked the brand's 35th anniversary, and elements of the decor nodded to the milestone.

A yellow-brick-road-style entrance, lined with greenery, led guests to the space where the Emerald City ball was held.

Metallic table linens and Chameleon chairs added sparkle to the opulent look of the Emerald City ball fund-raiser.

An ice sculpture added to the Emerald City ball's sense of whimsy.

An unusual arching centerpiece decorated a tabletop at the closing gala.

Towering centerpieces made a dramatic impact at the closing gala.

Oversize numerals served as decor in celebration of the big anniversary.

A photo station at the Bonus award winners' reception teased the event's red carpet theme. Calligraphy Katrina and Maison du Papier handled the calligraphy.

Marquee letters spelled out "cheers" at the welcome reception.

Flowers from Shawna Yamamoto decorated tabletop centerpieces that marked the anniversary.

The Emerald City ball had an Oz theme, with decor pieces in the form of oversize green gems hanging overhead.

Metallics and plants complemented the Oz theme.

An all-red assortment of desserts recalled the ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz.

The closing gala was meant to evoke a modern look, nodding to the company's future.

At the Bonus award winners' reception, a clean white logo decorated hedging.

Some couples are opting for daytime weddings and serving brunch instead of dinner—or serving brunch items at cocktail parties. Toronto catering firm Eatertainment serves elegant, miniature versions of breakfast dishes such as French toast and pancakes.

A DJ spun in front of a dance floor that featured the birthday girl’s personal logo at a sweet sixteen party produced by Magnolia Bluebird Design & Events. Warhol-style graphics, props, custom throw pillows, and comic-art-inspired decor punched up the white lounge furniture at the Musikfest Café at the SteelStacks in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

A hot chocolate to-go wall featuring custom mugs, gourmet marshmallows, and milk chocolate hot cocoa allowed partygoers to leave the sweet sixteen with a sweet treat.

For an older crowd, Radio Milano in Houston offers an interactive option for birthday parties—a craft cocktail training class where attendees shake things up using an array of ingredients. During the hour-and-a-half lesson, the bartender demonstrates how to make each cocktail, and partygoers get to taste what they've learned. Pricing starts at $30 per person; food, upgraded liquor, and a reception are available for additional fees.