In an age where we’re constantly seeking new ways to stay connected, one couple has found a timeless tradition that has brought them closer over two decades. For Ian and Yvette Perryman, every Monday night is a celebration of nostalgia, film and togetherness. The Bristol couple, who have three grown children, have watched 1000 classic films together, making their unique tradition a true testament to love and commitment.
It all started in early March 2005, when a spontaneous moment sparked a tradition that would last 20 years. Ian was working nearby, and one lunchtime, he popped home to pick something up. As he entered, he was greeted by Yvette, who had set up an ironing board in front of the TV. A black-and-white film was just starting—the 1950 classic "The Astonished Heart." “Yvette said to me: ‘You would love this film. I’ll just tape it and we will watch it tonight with a dry martini because that’s what Noel Coward and Celia Johnson were drinking at that moment.’”
From that simple moment, Martini Mondays were born. "We watched the black-and-white ‘classic’ film, bolstered by a full cocktail shaker of dry martinis," Ian recalls. "And we decided we were doing it the following Monday, and we coined it 'Martini Monday.' We have been doing it pretty much every week since then.”
The tradition, now spanning 1000 films and 20 years, has become a cherished part of their lives. They don’t just watch movies—they immerse themselves in the experience. Their living room has been transformed into an art deco cinema, complete with vintage movie posters, a gin bar stocked with 80 different bottles and an ambiance straight out of the 1930s and '40s. "The room where we watch, we got a big telly on the wall and we turned it into an art-deco shrine," Ian explains. "It is very 30s and 40s themed."
Every Monday night, they dress the part. Ian dons a dinner jacket or his favorite smoking jacket, while Yvette wears outfits featuring voluminous skirts and petticoats. The attention to detail makes each Monday feel special. "When we dress, we'll dress in a 40s style. It is very intimate because we normally do it just on our own, and the room where we watch has only got two big armchairs, so nobody can watch it with us," Ian says.
It’s not just about the films; it’s about sharing something meaningful together. Their favorite films range from drama to film noir and crime, and their collection includes old favorites like "Brief Encounter" and "This Happy Breed," which they’ve watched multiple times. “Some of them are real favorites,” Ian says. “We have seen them three or four times.”
While they’ve occasionally watched "rubbish," the couple thrives on discovering hidden gems, even in films without famous stars. "It is great because you see a lot of actors who became famous in their very small supporting roles, and you get very familiar with a lot of the actors,” Ian notes.
What started as a way to make Mondays more bearable has become integral to their lives. Ian adds, “Who likes Mondays? Nobody does. It always gave us something to look forward to on a Monday morning. It is a staple for us—we love it.”
On each anniversary, Ian and Yvette celebrate their tradition with gifts, cards and a little extra gin. It’s a small ritual, but one that strengthens their bond. "It brightens the week for us and we love doing it together. And when we look back on our lives and we think of one of the fun things we have done together, this will definitely be one of those.”
After 20 years, 1000 movies and countless memories, the Perrymans have shown that sometimes the simplest traditions create the strongest connections. It’s not about the films they watch or the outfits they wear; it’s about the commitment to creating something meaningful together every week.
In a world that’s always moving forward, Ian and Yvette have built something that lets them stop, reflect and bond—one Martini Monday at a time.
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