Aleah and Nick Valley are the husband-and-wife duo behind Valley & Company Events, a planning and design firm they founded in 2003. Alongside their talented team, they craft elevated experiences for corporate events, brand activations, unforgettable weddings, and personal celebrations of all kinds. Known for their approachable elegance and thoughtful hospitality, Aleah and Nick bring joy to every gathering—whether they’re entertaining clients or hosting friends at home. When they’re not planning parties, you’ll find them beachside or boating with their kids, always celebrating the everyday magic of togetherness.

Q: When planning a gathering in your home, where do you start?

"We generally start with the occasion – who or why we're celebrating! Whether it's a party for one of our kiddos, our neighborhood outdoor movie party, a holiday, or our home turning 100 (happening in 2026!), the occasion roots our ambiance."

For Aleah and Nick, the why behind the event grounds everything. Their gatherings are anchored in meaning—and that’s what makes the rest of the planning so intentional.

Q: What are your go-to ways to break the ice or entertain guests?

"We love to provide engaging moments for our guests: asking them to bring a favorite bottle or treat, having them help mix up cocktails, welcoming them into the kitchen, or greeting them at the door are all simple ways we welcome. If you're a guest in our home, we want you to feel comfortable! At our beach house, this past summer we entertained 32 guests, and everyone pitched in when it came to shaking up mocktails/cocktails, setting the table, or making big platters of food. Food and presentation are so important, and can be so much fun when created as a team. Such a great ice breaker and way to liven up the crowd!"

Even with a large group, they lean into shared moments. The result? A joyful, hands-on experience that feels more like a celebration than a performance.

Q: If you had a limited budget for a dinner party, what would you focus on for the tablescape?

"We would focus on a beautiful linen or table runner, elevated dishware (patterned, stoneware, or China), and lovely glasses that feel nice to the touch. Striking flowers down a table, tapered candles, and pretty place cards are also equally important, but can be achieved in more creative ways. Mixing and matching elements with low-cost versus higher (think: hydrangeas clipped from your garden in a more expensive statement vase) can help to maximize how the table feels and how you spend. Find some pretty paper and hand-pen your guests' names rather than hiring a calligrapher."

It’s all about elevating the everyday—simple paper, fresh-cut blooms, and special touches that feel personal without breaking the bank.

Q: What advice do you have for someone overwhelmed by hosting at home?

"Truly, don't overthink it! Start with the basics—how you'll greet guests, what you'll serve, and where you'll entertain—and let your creativity guide the rest. Use what you have at home, or bring in rentals for flatware, linens, or seating. Outsource where it helps, like florals or a great playlist, and mix homemade with store-bought bites. Don't stress over making everything from scratch—what matters most is the company and creating a welcoming space."

Aleah and Nick remind us that hosting doesn’t have to mean doing everything yourself. Focus on the basics, don’t overthink the menu, and feel empowered to outsource where it makes sense—because ultimately, it’s the company that matters most.

Q: Share your signature recipe (food or beverage) to serve when hosting.

"In the summer, we serve guests at our beach house freshly-caught shrimp grilled with lemon and parsley and Dungeness crab by the boatload (literally!) paired with pina coladas or pain killer drinks (a la the Caribbean). During the holidays, we love to make Norwegian lefse, serve lobster claws with butter, and bake Parisian Wafer cookies."

Seasonal and celebratory, their menus bring the wow factor—with roots in tradition, family, and fun.

Q: What’s your go-to soundtrack for a dinner party at home?

"We have a very eclectic taste in music – depending on the reason for the dinner party, we'll be playing a mix of Van Morrison, French jazz, Bob Marley, instrumental Caribbean music, to Top 40 and Taylor Swift!"

The Valleys keep it flexible and festive—music that enhances the mood and reflects the vibe of the celebration.

Q: What’s your favorite Partytrick?

"Marcy's Tuscan Picnic template is pretty gorgeous!"

They love Partytrick’s thoughtful, theme-forward templates that make planning feel effortless and inspired.

Q: What’s the most memorable party or gathering you’ve attended or hosted?

"At every party we host – whether personally or for our clients, seeing guests engaging, hugging, dancing, eating, laughing...that's what it's all about! As guests, we are impressed with the most basic, comfortable touches. Did someone take our coats? Did we feel welcomed?"

Hospitality is in the details—and Aleah and Nick value both the grand gestures and the quiet, thoughtful ones that make guests feel at home.

Q: What are your favorite brands when hosting?

“We love Williams-Sonoma, Pottery Barn, Tuckernuck, and so much of what's on Over The Moon!”

To explore more of Aleah and Nick’s world of creative hosting, follow them on Instagram @valleyandco or check out their work at valleyandco.com. Inspired to start planning your own event? Partytrick gives you everything you need to host beautifully—from customizable templates to smart tools and expert tips, all in one easy place. Sign up for your free Partytrick account and start creating your next celebration today.