Books, movies, food, and a theme that ties all three together: there are few things I like better. And since my lovely boyfriend humors me by going along with some of my crazier ideas, I’ve decided to try my hand at a monthly feature in which I showcase a movie (usually based on a work of fiction) by throwing a themed dinner party in celebration. Costumes, décor, and more, I spare no expense and, hopefully, can inspire a few of you to join in the fun.
This month we kicked things off with a Harry Potter movie marathon.
Decorations
Once we had our movie picked, I became somewhat of a whirling dervish, crafting and cutting and fashioning magical items out of whatever I could lay my hands on. Here’s what we came up with in the end.
- Mandrake Root
- Hedwig
- Marauder’s Map
- Dirigible Plum Sign
- Spectrespecs
- Chocolate Frog
- Polyjuice Potion
- Gilly Weed
- Time-Turner
Menu
Of course, we had to start the evening off with a couple of Butterbeers. Our recipe consisted of a couple of shots of butterscotch schnapps, cream soda, and whipped cream. For our main course, we had dragon wings (roast chicken with some creative license sprinkled in) and mushrooms which we figured likely came from the Forbidden Forest. Dessert was pumpkin pasties and, of course, chocolate frogs.
Costumes
Granted, we didn’t actually dress fully to the hilt that night, but we had gone as Luna and Neville for Halloween last year and so were able to use a few of the items we’d made back in October. Neville’s costume included a rather grandfatherish cardigan that I happen to adore, a Gryffindor scarf, a sword painted and bedazzled into Sword of Godric Gryffindor glory, and some fake blood. Luna’s costume consisted of a very itchy but perfect wig, mismatched outfit, butterbeer cork necklace, dirigible plum earrings, spectrespecs, and Quibbler (all of which I made painstakingly and obsessively).
It was a lot of work, but it was so much fun that I have no doubt we’ll do another similar night soon. Until next time, leave some comments with ideas for which literary movie (or non-literary- that’s fine too) we should feature next.
A Book and a Short Latte 
Ho-lee crap. I cannot tell you how super jealous I am of this wicked sweet party. For reals, the mandrake totally looks like one of those nasty little buggers. Super awesome!
Have you been doing the Pottermore deal? I registered but then got uber busy with a million other life things so I haven’t been able to check it out.
Thanks so much! Got the mandrake as a present a while back, and I looooove it. I started doing Pottermore but, like you, life just got in the way. I’m sure I’ll get sucked back in as soon as Chamber of Secrets is available, but until then I’ll probably devote my time to reading instead.
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