Frequently Asked Questions

Hattiesburg an Blan is a community dining experience; a gathering of Hattiesburg residents and friends for an all-white clothing, elegant, and whimsical evening of great food, good wine, and beautiful, white, creative decor. The magical evening includes music with DJ Byrd and dancing, live music by local musician, Charles Carter, and opportunities for comradery and photos. There is no strict agenda, just come, enjoy the food, music, vibes, and old and new friends. Why an blan? “an Blan” means ‘in white’ in Haitian Creole; we’re bringing a little of the diaspora to the fun.

We are a family deeply rooted in the beautiful, yet historically tumultuous state of Mississippi. We provide resources, invest in impact driven nonprofits, and elevate important causes across the state. Simply put, we help people who need it. Want to know more? Check us out here.

Instagram: @williamsfamilyfoundation Facebook: facebook.com/williamsfamilyfoundationms/

a. Your Own Food b. Tablescape (decorations) d. Silverware e. Wine glasses

Please do not bring the following items: a. Outside alcoholic beverages b. Colorful clothing c. Candles, fireworks, other flammable materials

Unfortunately, no children are allowed at the event. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase, therefore, the event is for adults, ages 21 and up only.

Check-in and set up begins at 5:30pm. Please plan to arrive between 5:30 and 6:00pm. Check-in ends at 6:15pm, and dinner begins promptly at 6:30pm.

The event is over at 10pm.

After dinner, snap your last photos, dance that last two-step, then clean up! Your table area should be as clean as it was when you arrived!

It’s your opportunity to get creative and show off! Flowers, tea lights, and candelabras, oh my! Just remember, the space limitations – your tablescape real estate includes only the space directly in front of your seat. See the diagram for a visual representation. Follow us on Instagram at @williamsfamilyfoundation and Facebook at @williamsfamilyfoundationms for inspiration!

There is no designated separate space to check-in storage items. Feel free to bring picnic baskets, small totes, and handheld coolers to store your items, but only what can fit comfortably under your chair or under the table immediately in front of you.

There are two alcohol options for event attendees: Event attendees can order bottles of wine online at the time of ticket purchase for pick up during check-in. A bar onsite for purchasing beverages (credit/debit cards only). Don’t forget to bring wine glasses or other beverage containers. No outside alcohol is allowed.

Guests are required to wear uninterrupted white. Keep your accessories aligned to the white theme: think silvers, golds, whites. The attire is classy and elegant, so get creative! Follow us on social media for inspiration!

Street parking is available downtown. For convenience, consider Uber or Lyft.

Hattiesburg an Blan is a rain or shine event. In case of inclement weather, guests should remember to bring a white or transparent raincoat, poncho, or umbrella. If public safety becomes an issue due to inclement weather, we may have a backup location indoors.

The best way to ensure your group has seating together, is to purchase an advance sale group ticket for eight people (entire table). Otherwise, you can purchase tickets together. You must be accompanied by a guest. This means, instead of separate transactions, purchase all tickets at once. For example, if you have a group of 4 people, purchase 4 tickets at once, instead of two separate transactions. Tickets can only be purchased in even number quantities (2, 4, 6, 8).

Good question! Due to space constraints, each attendee is allotted a specific area for their decorations at the table. If an odd number of tickets were sold, it would disrupt the arrangement, leaving someone without a designated space for their tablescape. To ensure everyone has an equal and enjoyable experience, we only offer tickets in even numbers. The two ticket holders will be seated directly across from each other.

The only way to make sure your table includes only your friends is to purchase a group ticket for 8 people. Otherwise, the table will be split between ticketholders and you will get to make new friends!

The VIP experience includes access to a catered spread of food with dessert and a table attendant. The VIP tables are prepared before your arrival and beautifully designed, with place settings and glassware. This means you don’t have to worry about bringing tablescape items. VIP guests also have a separate express check-in experience, prime location seating, and a complimentary glass of bubbly upon your arrival. As a VIP guest, just order your wine, bring yourself, and leave the rest to us!

While the VIP experience is curated by the event designers, general ticket holders get to creatively curate their own magical evening! The Foundation will provide tables, chairs, and tablecloths. The rest is up to you! Bring your own food, tablescape designs, and dress up in your best all white attire. Don’t forget your place settings, non-alcoholic drinks (wine and spirits available for pre-order or onsite cash bar).

All tickets are non-refundable. The Williams Family Foundation cannot facilitate ticket transfer.

We’re excited about your desire to be an event sponsor! Sponsorship opportunities are limited to ensure the goal of the event remains community-driven, therefore if your company would like to sponsor, contact us at @williamsfamfoundation@gmail.com as soon as possible.

Yes! If you’d like to sign up to volunteer or know someone who is interested, complete this short form and if additional capacity is needed, we’ll reach out to you.