We first took the ferry to Governor’s Island two years ago; we were drawn by the promise of a Gatsby-era picnic, the Jazz-Age Lawn Party. Visiting the small island, sitting amongst its officers’ quarters, it already felt like we were a million miles away from Manhattan–but this was particularly the case when hot jazz tunes started playing and period-appropriate attendees started to fill the lawn. Ashley and I were blown away by the details of the clothes–and the dancing!
We went back again this year–and although we have yet to get our act together enough to submit a pie to the contest or to dress the part, there were some tempting accouterments for sale (and for trying on).
Besides the live music and the overall feel of the event, I actually really liked the dancing. Ashley and I had to leave early to make it back in time for a wedding that night, but we were there early enough to catch a lesson in the Charleston. I felt we were pretty good when the two of us could put together a three-piece combination without me missing a step. Pretty good, that is, until the real pros (which included pretty much anyone dressed up) took the stage. They were amazing to watch; it was definitely inspiring.
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The good news is that although the summer’s lawn parties are over for this year, the band–Michael Arenella and his Dreamland Orchestra–plays at various events around the city. Ashley and I may have some work to do before next year.
{ 22 comments… read them below or add one }
I have always wanted to do this! Dressing up like Daisy and doing the Charleston sounds like such fun. Perfect photographs to capture the event.
super cool pictures, looks like a great event!! and charleston must be sooo much fun!
viele grüsse, kristina
Next year, I also want to enter the pie contest!
Oh my goodness! I absolutely love it. The costumes are fantastic. Daniel and I will have to make it out one day. Thanks for sharing!
Oh, God, I've been wanting to go to this forever! Next year, I promise, is my year! I CANNOT dance the Charleston, but the good news is that I can make a mean pie
I've always wanted to go. I better start working on my outfit now.
Very cool. Great images.
oh wow, I can't even believe how amazing this is. Seeing as I live in Charleston, I really want to become a pro at "The Charleston" too. xo
Absolutely cool!
we ran into this yesterday at governor's island, and were so sad that we hadn't heard about it ahead of time so we could join the dresser-uppers! the music and dancing were fantastic, and i loved the critical mass of people who showed up dressed to the nines.
OMG What a fun event!!!! I wish I could have danced with you guys!
xxx
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P.S: I have a very cute giveaway running which I think you'd love! Come and check it out!
How brave of you to go out of costume! I always feel like a bit of a spoilsport going to these things in my normal weekend wear. But I think the truth of the matter is that no one cares, everyone's just there to have a good time, no? OK then, next year I'm hopping the ferry.
that looks like loads of fun!!
wow, that looks like a lot of fun
I have always wanted to go! Maybe next year will be the year…
I would have LOVED to have seen the dancing.
Looks like we were at the same event again! You guys got some great shots! The girl in the top photo is a friend of my boyfriend's from NYU. He spotted her during a tap dancing routine she did later in the day. So funny!
I just got some of my photos up on my blog (we both took notice of the same girl in yellow)!
That's crazy, Emily! I'm sorry we missed each other; you two looked great!
I feel like the event is getting bigger and bigger–such a fun way to pass a sunny afternoon.
That looks like so much fun!
It looks awesome!!! I wish I was there… I even have an idea what would I wear for this party:)
loving these photos!! aron's glasses look awesome. xoxo
this looks like so much fun!