An Austen Affair

Literary Convention

May 23-25, 2025 ~ Salt Lake City, Utah ~ Utah State Capitol

PLEASE NOTE: To accommodate the large amount of interest we’ve had, the new date of the Austen Affair ball is being pushed back to May 23rd-25th, 2025, and will be extended into a glorious THREE-DAY CONVENTION!

An Austen Affair Tickets:

$395

Friday night - jane austen movie experience

What’s better than the 2005 Keira Knightly version of Pride and Prejudice? Watching the 2005 Keira Knightly version of Pride and Prejudice with fellow Jane Austen lovers!

Step into the world of Jane Austen as we begin the weekend with an exclusive private screening of the beloved 2005 adaptation of Pride and Prejudice. Set in a charming venue, guests will enjoy a cozy, candlelit atmosphere with delightful refreshments.

As part of this special gathering, each guest will receive a Book Bound jute tote bag, filled with exquisite Regency-inspired keepsakes:

  • A personalized Regency identity and backstory, uniquely crafted for each attendee.

  • A delicate hand fan, accompanied by an instructional guide detailing the art of Regency-era fan language.

Prepare to be whisked away into a world of romance and intrigue!

Promenade & Regency bingo - saturday morning

Awaken to the elegance of Regency England with a morning promenade among the stunning cherry blossoms of the Utah State Capitol. Guests will don their finest day attire and receive a suede journal and feather pen to chronicle their weekend adventures.

A Regency Bingo board will invite guests to partake in a variety of delightful activities, including:

  • Floral cross-stitch – With expert instructors guiding you, and each guest receiving a take-home cross-stitch kit.

  • Mastering the pianoforte – Showcase your musical talents or simply enjoy the melodies of fellow guests.

  • Victorian ball-and-cup game – Test your hand-eye coordination in this charming pastime.

  • "Shooting for ducks" cornhole game – A playful twist on Regency hunting games.

  • Delivering a veiled bard – Exchange poetic musings with newfound acquaintances.

  • Expressing secret messages with a hand fan – Unravel the art of flirtation through fan language.

  • Composing a poem in your journal – Channel your inner Byron or Austen.

  • Engaging in Regency trivia – Test your knowledge of the era.

  • Perfecting poise with book-balancing lessons – A delightful exercise in grace and decorum.

AN AUSTEN AFFAIR BALL - saturday evening

The grandest affair of the weekend! Upon arrival, each guest will be formally introduced by their Regency identity and receive a dance card to fill with partners for the evening, whether that be partners, friends, or other ball attendees!

Ball Highlights:

  • Group Dances: Guests will receive instructional videos in advance for the three featured group dances, which will guests are welcome to participate in at designated times throughout the evening.

  • Food & Beverages

    Guests will enjoy a thoughtfully curated selection of savory bites and sweet delights, accompanied by a refreshing variety of beverages:

    • Charcuterie Board – A delectable assortment of fine cheeses, crisp crackers, artisan meats, fresh vegetables, and seasonal fruits.

    • Italian Soda Station – Featuring 11 soda bases, 15 flavorful syrups, cream, and citrus options. Each drink is made to order by our dedicated servers, complete with cups, lids, and straws. Enjoy two themed specialty drinks crafted exclusively for the ball.

    • Crepe Station – Freshly made crepes with strawberry, peach, and hazelnut mousse fillings, served with a variety of toppings. Gluten-free options available upon request, as indicated in the allergy section of the attendee info form at checkout.

  • A mesmerizing Opera Performance – Featuring the illustrious Tawny Pollard, a classically trained opera singer whose enchanting voice will captivate all in attendance.

  • Whist Parlor Game – Try your hand at the Regency-era card game of Whist.

  • Dancing Until Midnight – A mix of classical Austen-inspired music early in the evening, gradually transitioning to lively pop/dancing music to end the evening on a high note.

  • The Crowning of the Diamond of the Season – One lucky guest will be named the evening’s shining star and awarded a special keepsake.

  • A Secret Parting Gift – A timeless token of appreciation for every guest, ensuring the night lingers in memory.

  • The Radiance Station – A shimmer and glow station where guests can enhance their look with a touch of ethereal sparkle to their décolletage or cheeks.

Downtown salt lake city scavenger hunt for lady book bound

Throughout the weekend, guests can partake in an interactive scavenger hunt to unravel the mystery of Lady Book Bound!

  • Five clandestine artifacts are hidden around downtown Salt Lake City.

  • The lucky guest who uncovers the final artifact will reveal Lady Book Bound’s true identity, who is secretly among us!

Sunday - bookish fair

Spend the morning/early afternoon immersed in literature at our bookish fair, featuring esteemed authors and artisanal vendors offering exclusive book-themed merchandise. Guests will have the chance to meet authors, purchase signed books, and browse Regency-inspired goods.

  • Private Hour – An exclusive browsing experience reserved for event attendees.

  • Open Market – Following the private hour, the fair will be open to the public to celebrate and support our wonderful vendors and authors.

EXTRA GOODIES INCLUDED IN YOUR TICKET

  • New Identities: Step into the shoes of a Regency character with a specially crafted new identity. Whether you fancy yourself a Lord, Lady, or Liege, choose a fun alias to be known by throughout the event.

  • Gossip Column: Prior to the event, guests will receive whimsical gossip columns detailing delightful scandals and social intrigues featuring their Regency personas.

  • Candid Photography Access: Enjoy access to all candid photography shots taken during the event. Relive the memories and see the event from every delightful angle.

  • Free Access to Book Bound Book Club: As a guest of 'An Austen Affair,' you'll unlock access to the exclusive Book Bound Book Club until June 1, a vibrant community of over 500+ members. Engage in stimulating discussions, participate in book basket exchanges, join virtual meetups, and immerse yourself in a world of literary camaraderie.

  • A Guide to Salt Lake City – Attendees will receive a beautifully curated travel guide with must-visit spots, dining recommendations, and hidden gems to explore during their stay.

  • And More!: Additional surprises await you, ensuring your experience is nothing short of magical.

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