Sid Neigum
Born to Party, Forced to Work Bronson van Wyck
The internationally acclaimed event producer shows his ideas and inspiration for ultimate and intimate celebrations
What defines a truly great party? Most of all: generosity of spirit. In his first book, Bronson van Wyck, the man Vogue called 'The Wizard of Oz of New York party planning,' distills the essential pillars of the art of celebration into one volume, with examples drawn from his many successes - and, admittedly, a few entertaining failures. Lusciously illustrated with images from van Wyck's most spectacular events, this is the perfect primer on throwing parties that are as much fun to give as they are to attend.
Specifications:- Format: Hardback
- Size: 290 x 214 mm (11 3/8 x 8 3/8 in)
- Pages: 256 pp
- Illustrations: 350 illustrations
- ISBN: 9780714876900
Bronson van Wyck began his career as a protocol aide to Ambassador Pamela Harriman in Paris, where he was responsible for nightly diplomatic receptions at the American Embassy. In 1999, he founded Van Wyck & Van Wyck, an event firm that produces celebrations ranging from weddings and dinner parties to international destination experiences and not-for-profit galas. He is a founding member and trustee of the Friends of the High Line.
"This book is like a shot of tequila at the beginning of an unforgettable night. Appropriately so, because serving tequila to guests right when they arrive at our house for a night of revelry is a party trick Bronson van Wyck taught me - and one I highly recommend. In his book, Bronson shows us that being a great host is something we can all achieve. This beautiful book is a fun gift for those who like to entertain, and for the anxious host as well."—Jessica Seinfeld
"I've watched Bronson van Wyck grow up, as he's turned his passion into a profession. Born to Party, Forced to Work is an inspiring, beautifully written read for anyone who's ever wondered how to make a career out of doing what you love. Bronson's sincerity, graciousness, and sly sense of humor come across in every page. And the pictures of the events make you feel like you were there yourself."—Diane von Furstenberg
"Every party Bronson van Wyck designs is a party you want to attend. And every party is a creative tour de force, full of innovation, great music, wonderful decoration, and an all-encompassing friendly ambience. Energy, joie de vivre, incomparable glamour, vivaciousness, and otherworldly beauty are just a few of the building blocks Bronson employs to accomplish his wizardry at any party venue. This evocative book captures so much of Bronson's work and evokes the range of his amazing talents."—Martha Stewart
"[F]unny, informative, and endearing... The book gives readers a peek inside a rarefied world, but never takes itself too seriously, which makes it not only a fine primer for aspiring hosts, but a truly delicious read as well."—Town & Country Online
"Event producer extraordinaire Bronson van Wyck chronicles the best of his many fetes in his vivacious first book."—Elle Decor
"From gilt nights evoking those enjoyed by the ancien régime at the Palace of Versailles to fantasy weddings set under a lush canopy of flowers, photos from his best hits are presented in a manner that celebrates generosity and good cheer."—Vogue Online
"A witty, ravishing new entertainment memoir."—Wag Magazine Online
"In his new book... [van Wyck] offers an insider's take on some of history's most memorable soirees, along with a few of his own events, sprinkled with gorgeous photos of his divine visions."—New York Post, Alexa
"It's a gorgeous book. I highly recommend it."—Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen
"It's a gorgeous, illustrated volume filled with personal stories, a blueprint for building an event from soup to nuts, and humorous advice on averting disaster."—Forbes Online
"[A] new book by a master of the over the top holiday party."—Town & Country Online
"Born to Party, Forced to Work is a perfect guide to throwing memorable fêtes that are as enjoyable to give as they are to attend."—Quest Blog
"This golden-covered book doesn't only give an exclusive look at his most lavish bashes; it also provides party tips he's learned along the way."—Los Angeles Times
"Bronson van Wyck's glorious book, both a thoughtful reflection on the art of hospitality and a vivid evocation of his career planning some of high society's most lavish shindigs, manages to make it seem like you, too, have received an invitation."—The Daily Mail