The Ultimate Guide to Diner En Blanc

This is your ultimate guide to Diner En Blanc. Le Diner En Blanc is by far one of my favorite events in Memphis. The first Diner En Blanc Memphis made its debut in 2018. I didn’t get to attend the first event but I was able to attend every year after and as a result, I’ve created some best practices to create the ultimate guide to Le Diner En Blanc.

As a repeat attendee, there are definitely some things I would suggest to first-time attendees. You can think about Le Diner En Blanc in four parts: what to wear, what to eat, table ideas, and how to pack. Now, let’s get started.

What To Expect

If you are wondering, what you are getting yourself into, you can expect an outdoor dining party at a secret location. The location changes from year to year and is part of what makes the experience. Your attitude definitely determines how much or how little fun you have at the event. Moreover, this is not an event you want to try to get ready for at the last minute. Preparation is key to creating an enjoyable experience.

Furthermore, the price of the event will vary from city to city but tickets cost around $80 per person for the event in Memphis.

Lastly, the most common question I get about the event is what am I paying for if I have to bring everything? Based on my background in event planning and what the Memphis experience presented its guest the cost of the event covered permits, decor, lighting, and entertainment throughout the night.

Tips on What to Wear to Le Diner En Blanc

Diner En Blanc does a great job in my opinion of sharing what you should and shouldn’t wear in their communication to attendees. Your group leader will likely be sharing communication on what to and what not to wear for Diner En Blanc no matter what city you’re attending.

Seriously, don’t be that person at the end of the day who just has to be different.

The Dress Code we received was a follows.

• Guest dress in all white everything
• Originality and creativity is encouraged
• All white means- All White, not cream off white or egg shell
• The only accepted splash of color is gold and silver accesories

Tip 1: Pack a Tide whitening pen for any mishaps.

Having a tide pen handy helps to easily clean any

Tip 2: Dress for the weather

It doesn’t get cool in Memphis until the end of October so each year I’ve kept this in mind as I pick out my attire for Diner En Blanc. Think twice before wearing a long-sleeve ensemble and If you do be sure it’s breathable fabric like cotton or linen. Additionally, I’ve even packed a handheld fan to help keep me cool in the Memphis heat. Also, consider a poncho or umbrella in case of rain.

Tip 3: Wear comfortable shoes

To make sure I was comfortable, I packed heels for pictures and sneakers for the actual event the second year and wore sandals the first year. My feet thanked me at the end of the night.

• 

• 

• 

• 

Table Ideas & Tips for Le Diner En Blanc

Furthermore, If you enjoy decorating, then this part of the event is where you will shine each year. This is definitely one of my fave parts of the event.

Tip 1: Use Flameless Candles Instead of Traditional Candles

Using flameless candles has two benefits. First, it provides additional lighting. The second benefit is there is no additional heat added.

Tip 2: Keep your table Decor Manageable

There is a fine line in creating your tablescape of not doing enough and just right. If you do nothing else, at least do a dry run prior to the event to ensure a smooth setup on the day of the event.

Tip 3: Use Faux Flowers or Don’t Worry About Water For One Night

I’ve used faux flowers and I’ve used real flowers. The key here is not using water and by doing this you will have one less thing to clean up in case of a spill.

Tip 4: Make Your Food a Part of Your Table Scape

As I plan to go into my third year as a Diner En Blanc guest this is definitely a tip I plan on using. One of the challenges you may have is making everything fit comfortably in your designated area. By minimizing what you need to store under your table after unpacking will make your experience that much more enjoyable.

• 

• 

Food Ideas & Tips For Diner En Blanc

Tip 1: Make Sure Your Food is Good to Eat Cold or at Room Temperature

I’ve made food for the event and I’ve ordered food from a restaurant in preparation for the event. The only thing I haven’t done is order through the vendors made available from the event organizers. I made this decision to keep from waiting in any lines. This is one of the biggest complaints I’ve heard in previous years.

Tips for Packing For Diner En Blanc

Tip 1: Don’t Use a Wagon to Pack Your Items

The cons of using a wagon far outweigh the pros. The better option is a foldable rolling crate that allows you to collapse it and store it under the table.

Tip 2: Use A Rolling Backpack Cooler for Your Wine

Keep your wine chilled by using a small rolling backpack cooler. (if needed)

Tip 3: Use an Insulated Bag to Keep Your Food Warm

Now if you’re expecting your food to be piping hot, try again. The likelihood of this happening is very unlikely no matter what you do. Your best option is to keep it as warm as possible by packing your food in an insulated bag or lunchbox.

Final Thoughts

Diner En Blanc is ultimately an outdoor dinner party that you customize. If planning isn’t your thing I wouldn’t suggest this type of event for you. Your group/table leader should be able to answer any question you have as your prepare for the event.

Don’t be afraid to ask past attendees about their experience in the city in which you are attending your event.

At the end of the day, my biggest and best tip is don’t stress over the event just have FUN.