Diner En Blanc “DEB” is a more known term for dinner in white. It is a worldwide event in which people have a meal dressed in white. I initially heard of DEB while living in Atlanta. According to my knowledge, Atlanta became listed as a host city in 2014. Fast forward, I relocated and attended my first DEB as a member in Washington, D.C. at Freedom Plaza in 2019. Of course, I had to look up the origin. The event was founded in 1988 (Paris, France). It looked so magical at Esplanade des Invalides. Paris has the impeccable architecture and aesthetic backdrops to compliment such an elegant occasion so how fitting.
More recently, I have participated in my third DEB Charlotte as a member. Each city has their own ambiance, which is amazing, yet tradition still applies, so no need for comparison yet there can be subtle difference regarding flower arrangement color requirements or bring your own bottle “BYOB” for example. Charlotte is not BYOB per North Carolina state law; Biltmore Wines is an official sponsor. Charlotte gets DEB right, as evidenced by high anticipation leading up to the event, almost four thousand attendees, and people who do not even follow me on social media that reach out in the DM’s with inquiry. Tara Robinson brought this event to Charlotte in 2018, along with other co-hosts that are involved in planning the ever-moving components due to the magnitude of such event.
I will now answer the typical questions I get from those inquiring or wanting in. DEB is created as a community event; you’re bound to meet new friends. The event sells out quickly each year so be on top of your emails. Invites are by phases (1-3; you must purchase in your respective phase before it sells out). Phase 1 is for returning members; Phase 2 is for friends of Phase 1; Phase 3 is for those who are on the waitlist.
Guests must wear white, prepare, be timely, communicative and abide by additional rules around the event. Most people that do not like this type of event normally have issue with the aforementioned, not a fan of crowds, or feel they can do such themselves. It’s not for everyone, hence the exclusivity relative to secrecy around DEB. Tickets are purchased in pairs because it truly takes diligent coordination of at least two people to seamlessly execute day of or else it all falls on one person. There must be two to a table as well. Guests are required to bring everything for setup unless their host city offers concession to purchase in that regard.
I prefer to get my outfit out of the way and plan. I notice that most get bogged down on their outfit. As one who has experience with this event, I pick the outfit first (the later in the year it gets, white options can become limited) and move on then circle back if needed on ways to elevate my look (I try to stay within the chic upper society origin of the event and not blur the lines as it relates to outfit choice); I would advise one to stay away from fast fashion or boutiques that cater to the masses, in order to lessen someone else wearing the same outfit.
I have managed to narrow down what works for me so planning time has been reduced year over year because I have most of what’s required. There is not a lot of space relative to guests and location so less is more is my approach. Setup requires two to move quickly once at the secret location. I advise a dry run at home if it’s your first time. I utilize the e-store for wine purchase and catering options. Outside cater pick-ups are an option as well but you have to bring it with you than having the on-site pickup option for convenience. I will also bring light or finger food items best served chilled depending on selection because convenience doesn’t always yield ample quantity relative to price point(s) so leverage is the most sensical approach. I am not a fan of bringing heavy food or a full-fledged meal day of, yet my selections encompass three course options. I do notice I never get around to eating dessert. I try to bring no more than I plan to eat. Think posh and be ready to enjoy the event instead of inundated with tons of food to pack back up and store away. Keep it filling, cute and non-fussy should be your approach as a lady/gent dressed in your best white.
Some of the traditional moments that take place during DEB are the ceremonial napkin wave signifying the start of festivities and thereafter you eat (make sure to bring white cloth napkins), lighting of sparklers (bring a safe hand lighter and keep it secured; if you forget a fellow group mate is normally kind enough to share a light), photo opportunities (pack a small pouch to refresh your makeup and Olay cloths-easily wipes away transfer stains on white garments), live music and entertainment (make sure to bring comfy flats within guidelines for dancing and walking).
I hope you got a feel of how spectacular this event is from my commentary, photos and enclosed links. The 2024 waiting list for Charlotte is now open, so make sure to sign up.
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Milkbread
HOLIDAY EDIT 2024
Tea Service-The Ballantyne
Thompson Buckhead
