Downton Abbey

How has this idea enhanced your club's operation, etc.?

After almost two years of dealing with COVID, the team felt our members needed a special evening that would transport them to a simpler time and that is exactly what our Member Events Director did with our Downton Abbey Wine Dinner this fall. From the Edwardian Era into the roaring 20’s, Downton Abbey deliciously aired for six seasons receiving international acclaim.  Food was frequently present on the show and a centerpiece around which daily events and special occasions occurred.  While the wine pairings were an important part of the evening, the food, décor and overall feeling of being transported back in time stole the show. To preserve the authenticity of the evening, we capped the event at 34 to accommodate everyone at one long table. The event sold out and created an exclusive evening that was the talk of the Club for many weeks to come.

How was this idea implemented, and what have been the club members' reactions?

Field Club of Omaha recreated the period drama in practically every way.  Members’ first taste was a video invitation that simulated the grand fanfare of the show’s opening credits.  Opulent place settings, historically accurate napkin folds, extravagant surroundings of the “upstairs” of an English country home including early 1900s curtains, a sliver of Mrs. Patmore’s kitchen, the famous bell wall and displays of show memorabilia all added to the experience.  Even the members got into character dressing in period clothing.  The five-course menu was prepared, of course, directly from the official Downton Abbey Cookbook.  The wine pairings and 1900s era cocktails were cherries on top of the perfect evening. The members’ reactions to the Club being transformed were priceless. The event was truly spectacular! Our Member Events Director even received multiple thank you cards afterwards from members that couldn’t thank us enough for a memorable, special evening at the Club.