A Private Ball
Although great private balls have become almost unheard of, this blog would be incomplete if a description of it was omitted. The two types of balls that have replaced private ones all over the country - the charity ball and the debutantes ball - are almost identical in terms of customs, rules, and procedures.
There is also the dance which differs from the ball. The two fundamental differences between a ball and a dance however both are very similar. First, while only those of approximately one age are asked to a dance, ball invitations are sent to all the personal friends of the hostess, not matter what their ages. Second is the fact that fewer people are asked to a dance and so the decorations and refreshments may be but do not have to be simpler.
A public ball is run by a committee, whose chairman is in some ways comparable to the hostess, but without the full burden of responsibility. Each member of the committee has certain duties: one is in charge of decorations, one of invitations; others are appointed to be responsible for the orchestra, the food, ticket money, etc.
The hostess of a private ball must, of course, assume the final responsibility for every aspect of the evening. She may enlist the aid of many and various people. The club or hotel where it is to be held will provide the servants, the food, and the drinks; if the ball is to be held in her home, a caterer will provide the same services. A great florist would be needed for the decorations and there are social secretaries available who can help her with the lists and invitations. But no matter how much help she is able to amass, the hostess giving a private ball must make the final decisions on all the details that are so important to the success of the party.
Posted by Eugene Vodovoz at 19 December 2011, 4:28 PM 
Categories: Etiquette
Tags: private ball charity ball debutantes ball customs rules invititation
Categories: Etiquette
Tags: private ball charity ball debutantes ball customs rules invititation
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