MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!
I conquered Perth’s largest community gathered ‘Elegant picnic’ - the Global Phenomenon
On Sunday evening, Perth held their very first annual extravagant 'picnic' - 'Diner en Blanc'. Over 1600 people dressed up head to toe in white, and made their way to Elizabeth Quay foreshore to share a beautiful elegant 3-course evening with people they had never met before.
Dana and I headed to the secret location and too, had the opportunity to experience the event representing ECU Daily (Student Broadcasting & Journalism @ ECU). Edith Cowan University were major sponsors of 'Diner En Blanc' in celebration of their 25th year anniversary.
So how does the night work?
Guests get together at an iconic location, which is not revealed until hours before the dinner is held. At every location, a mentor explains that the secret dinner will be held within 8kms from Perth’s CBD - coming by bus, ferry, or trains bringing with them their very own picnic table, chairs, décor, and silverware.
Who came up with this brilliant soiree?
'Diner En Blanc' originated in Paris nearly 30 years ago by Francois Pasquier and his close friends. The event now takes place in more than 20 countries bringing together over 10,000 people each year for one special night. Here in Perth it was held for the first time in collaborated with Edith Cowan University celebrating their 25-year anniversary.
Any traditions occur on the evening?
After guests arrive at their allocated tables, set up their belongings, the evening commenced with ‘waving of the napkins’ for the commencement of the meal and at the end, guests would wave lit sparklers once they had finished eating.
How does one attend?
Look out for information on the internet - hear from word of mouth or from someone in the society group from over seas or inter state.
4 of the 8 'core values':
1. Friendship - The original intention is at the core of the heart - bringing together family and friends. The event is built by friends, for friends.
2. Sharing - The word and definition of 'diner' is associated with 'sharing' in terms of conversation and food. Each group of guests put together a 3-course meal prior the event, that they share with one another on the evening.
3. Elegance and Gallantry - The event wishes to emulate the same gallantry values as were at the foundation of the French High Society. Dressed in white, conducting themselves with etiquette, elegance, decorum ready for a 'fashion oriented mass picnic' in a public space.
4. Secrecy - The chosen location is always kept secret throughout the invitation process and location is revealed to guests minutes before it starts.
Overall, it was a dashing event, receiving the whole VIP treatment and gaining media access. Moet bottles popping' everywhere - and in fact, our VIP media access tent was full of it.
Perth Socialites, Food bloggers, Social Media influences and Perth's B-list celebrities where amongst the glam of the evening. Some being the very famous blogger @GypsyLovinLight, Helen Janneson Bense, with over 618k followers on her social media platforms - Anoushka Marie, beauty blogger on youtube and fashion influencer, with over 33k followers on her social media platforms...
Until next year 'Diner en Blanc'.
Carina x