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I decide what the mood is (casual or formal) that I’m going for and then work backwards from there. Another element that I take into consideration is the time of year. In the winter months, I defer to cozy, intimate gatherings, while in the summer, it’s usually a bigger group, mostly because I can utilize my outdoor space or even move the fête to a park.
I love connecting people, so often times when I host, there may be guests that don’t know each other, so to eliminate awkwardness, I introduce them both right away and offer a little tidbit about each person - usually something that gives a bit of common ground. Then I let them chat naturally while I’m still there for a little safety net, and I bow out as they develop a good flow. If I know it's someone a bit more shy, sometimes I'll ask a question that I know is related to an area they're comfortable with (or love to chat about), to integrate them into the dialogue of the evening.
"Move that pretty potted orchid from the bedroom and make it the focal point."
Use what you already have! There’s no need to go out and drop a bunch of coin on specialty linen, flowers and candles when you might have a stash of underutilized things at home. I like to put scrap fabric (even the occasional non-precious scarf) to work as a runner, or move that pretty potted orchid from the bedroom and make it the focal point, foraging outdoors to clip some greenery and layer it across the table, and of course, using vegetables or fruit that are in-season (and taking up valuable dinner space real estate in your fridge) and displaying in your prettiest bowl.
Exuding comfortability as the hostess! I always try to make sure guests know my home is an extension of theirs, and I try to make the menu accessible and play to the audience coming and the occasion we’re celebrating. When people feel at ease, that’s when genuine connection—and unforgettable memories—will occur.
"Find your comfort zone and make that your superpower!"
Other than of course using Partytrick, I suggest playing to your strengths! If you’re not a great cook and hiring a caterer is out of the question, make it a take-out party. Say you’re the music lover in your friend group—go with a Disco theme or something similar that feels in your wheelhouse. Find your comfort zone and make that your superpower!
My aunt's brownie recipe. It's completely decadent. I know it by heart, and always have the ingredients on hand, making it a beloved go-to and perennial crowd-pleaser to have in my arsenal.
I am a lifelong jazz aficionado, and in particular am an enormous fan of the great Doc Cheatham, whose distinctive voice paired with the exquisite brassy notes of his trumpet, supply a sublime soundtrack for those dreamy nights, where conversations linger and the candles burn low.
Pull all your serveware in advance and set it out the night before. I put a post-it note designating each dish to its corresponding platter or bowl, not only to ensure I have the appropriate vessel, but to serve as a back-up plan on the day-of so I can catch myself if I’ve forgotten something!
"I put a post-it note designating each dish to its corresponding platter or bowl."
In addition to being a Contributing Writer to Partytrick, Alexandra Tarleton Mirante has over a decade of professional experience in full-service event planning, and brings her detailed experiential designs to life with her company, Tarleton Events. Creating environments for people to share an experience together, ones that make an indelible mark on their memories, is her absolute joy. Alexandra believes there is truly nothing more precious than time well-spent.
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There's something timeless about a Slim Aarons photograph: the crisp linens, the cocktails held just-so, the oversized sunglasses hiding secrets behind every lens. It’s aspirational without trying too hard. And it’s this exact effortless elegance that makes the Slim Aarons aesthetic the ultimate inspiration for your next summer gathering.
Starting a run club is an excellent way to foster community, promote fitness, and create meaningful connections with fellow running enthusiasts. Whether you're an experienced marathoner or just beginning your running journey, hosting a run club can transform your solo activity into a social experience that motivates everyone involved.
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Let’s fix your mimosa bar—and make it a little less “Live Laugh Love” and a little more “How is this actually delicious?”
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