Friends of mine are building a large banquet facility in my hometown, the type of place that will cater to wedding receptions, larger anniversary parties, and various things of that nature. The idea is to make the place more ‘high-brow’ than some of the other choices in town, and the outside will be done to the nines w marble columns, a fancy garden with a large fountain in the middle, etc.
These folks asked me to come up with a name, preferably something of an ancient Greek or Roman background. Its been quite awhile since I read the Aeneid, the Illiad, etc., so my grasp of ancient Greek placenames is pretty weak.
I turn to you, DoperNation - give me some ideas to pass along (i’ll be at the campus library over lunch, looking over some books to get some ideas as well). The have already decided against The Parthenon (sp?), My Big Fat Greek Banquet Hall, and Honest Nico’s Hall of Fun.
Well, since Dionysus was the god of wine (Bacchus was the Roman version) and ecstatic experiences (usually brought about by excessive consumption of the former), and the Greek theater has its origins partly in staging spectacles in his honor, why not name the business after one of the best-known theaters in ancient Greece? Especially since it’s dedicated to organizing spectacles in which people are supposed to have a good time.
I, therefore, humbly suggest Epidauros. It’s got that similarity with “epicure”, too.
Something referring to Ambrosia, food of the gods. Or possibly Elysium, the Greek concept of heaven. Whatever you do, don’t call it Tantalus’ Surprise Shack.
Here are a few architectural words that come to mind. The Agora
proscenium - In a theater, the part of stage which lies between the curtains and the orchestra.
Caryatid - a column in the shape of a woman. Most famoulsy used at the Acropolis.
Pergola- A garden structure with an open wooden framed roof, often latticed, supported by regularly spaced post or columns.
Ictinus - the Parthenon is attributed to him
Phidias - the sculptor of the Acropolis
First thing that came to my mind was “Ataraxia”. That was the word Epicurus used to describe his goal of peace of mind, freedom of anxiety, and tranquility. Hopefully the people who chose to have their special event at your friend’s banquet facility will have acheived “ataraxia” because the staff will handle all the details so professionally there will be nothing left for them to worry about on their special day.
