Photography courtesy of Reggie Van Derson
Reggie Van Derson
Reggie Van Derson, owner and artistic director of Pure Entertainment Company, is well-known in St. Louis for his event planning and DJing. Although social distancing has put a damper on some events, weddings, and other large gatherings, Van Derson has a new way to keep the party going—while maintaining social distance. He recently launched Kickin’ It in the Cul-de-sac, his party-planning services expanding to block parties. He's now bringing the fun to neighborhoods across St. Louis.
When people hear “block party” they often think of mayonnaise-based food that has been left out in the sun too long, children running around without structured activities, or listening to their neighbors on the karaoke machine. But Van Derson is focused on creating out-of-the-box experiences, and he says his ideas can be altered to fit specific requests. Some block party ideas include socially distanced lawn games, a kids' talent show, or Van Derson himself playing DJ to start the party.
Asked what type of parties he'd throw for specific neighborhoods, Van Derson says, “It would be fun to throw an unexpected cowboy-slash-rodeo-themed celebration in the streets of The Grove or Clayton.” He envisions his dance group, DJ Reggie and the Hip Hop Mamas, performing their rendition of “The Git Up” by Blanco Brown and teaching the crowd some dance moves. The rodeo theme would be complete with a petting zoo, pony rides, and an ice cream truck for younger attendees. Van Derson said that “the Grove or Clayton are central locations that lend themselves easily to a street party, but I can also envision this type of party in other neighborhoods like Colonial Lane."
For an outdoor rooftop gathering, perhaps at an apartment building in the CWE, Clayton, or downtown, Van Derson envisions a glow-in-the-dark, LED, or black light theme. Van Derson has on hand glow stick costumes, a glow-in-the-dark bubble machine, and glow-in-the-dark masks and gloves.
One theme that Van Derson is looking forward to bringing to a neighborhood party is Dancing in the Driveway. “For the rockstar wannabes, I'm envisioning a make-your-own-music-video party,” he says. “Your guests can leave with their own personal videos to laugh at forever.” Or an epic lip-synch battle. The winner gets neighborhood bragging rights.
In keeping with social distancing guidelines, Van Derson plans to work with caterers who provide specially packaged individual foods. He also anticipates working in food truck options for his Kickin’ It in the Cul-de-sac events, supporting other local businesses where possible. Packages start at $750.
