Meet Amber Fairbanks — co-founder of Banks & Leaf, a creative event studio she launched with her best friend and business partner, Gabby Greenleaf. With over 25 years of combined experience, Amber and Gabby bring bold vision, heartfelt intention, and personalized polish to every gathering they touch. Together, they’re redefining what luxury means in the world of events: less about perfection, more about personality. Whether she’s styling a moody fall dinner or serving fries on silver trays at her own birthday, Amber believes joy is in the details — and she brings that same energy to the way she hosts at home.

Q: Please share your go-to ways to break the ice or things to do to entertain guests:

A curated playlist fitting to the vibe of the event is going before the first guest arrives, with drink options on display to offer always. If kids are coming, I always have some fun activity set up or a playful drink/snack to give them right away to help them adjust to what could be an overwhelming setting. Candles lit and a cheese board somewhere not in the kitchen — in a location I want guests to go that they may not feel initially inclined to hang out. If I set it all in the kitchen, then people tend to linger in that one spot, so I love displaying snacks and drinks in other rooms so they know it's a welcomed space for them to be.

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

Candles I already have, grocery store flowers, and just pulling the pretty pieces from my own cabinet. Soft lighting, candles, and good music can really make a table feel cozy and inviting even if you don't have a lot to put out.

Q: What makes a great gathering memorable?

I think the host being present and making time to talk with each guest goes a long way. When that happens, even if timing is off or every detail isn't perfect, walking away feeling like you were very welcomed to be there is something I never personally forget.

Q: If someone is feeling overwhelmed by hosting their friends in their home, what tips would you give them?

I think starting small is key. A more intimate gathering with small bites and drinks is very approachable rather than a coursed sit-down dinner party. Asking for people to bring a few things can also help relieve some pressure. And prepping the day before is a life-saver! I always do things the night before — like set the table, arrange flowers, prep food, and get the house straightened up ahead of time — so that the day of hosting, I feel relaxed and ready to enjoy the time with the people attending.

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

I almost never host a gathering without a big charcuterie board with lots of cheese, meat, fruit, bread, and dips — and some bubbly. I have also found during the winter months that a sit-down dinner party with a big hearty bowl of soup as the main course is such a crowd pleaser. It's easy to make and keep hot too. I made a chicken gumbo with a large batch of rice to add to everyone's bowls, and it was so easy but felt unique and comforting on a cold night.

Q: What's your go-to soundtrack for dinner party at home? We'd love your fave playlist!

This is a hard one for me, as we go a bit extra and make one ourselves for almost every party on Spotify. If it's a backyard summer party, you are going to hear a lot of bluegrass or old classics like The Drifters or anything nostalgic that is a good sing-along. I recently hosted a fall gathering where I really wanted a witchy/moody ambiance and made a list with a lot of Lana Del Rey and music from the movie Practical Magic. I think matching the music to the mood is so important.

Q: What is your favorite Partytrick?

Using Partytrick, duh?! And also, a lit candle and matches in the bathroom, and chilled bubbly water out so guests have it right in front of them rather than feeling like they have to ask for water.

Q: What is the most memorable party or gathering you've attended or hosted? Why?

So many — it's hard to narrow down — but I can share a recent one because it's so top of mind and personal. My own birthday party! I never throw myself a birthday party, so this was very out of character, but no regrets. I kept the guest list very small, served French fries and chicken fingers on silver trays with champagne, and a vintage piped cake and cheesecake for dessert. On and off throughout the party, I shared how I met each guest and why they are special to me. Oh! And my bestie, Gabby, who couldn't be there, sent a special surprise — an a cappella group came to sing for us and that was SO cool and a fun addition to the night. So moral of the story: throw yourself a birthday party someday, and you might just love it.

Q: What are your favorite products or brands to use when hosting?‍

Trader Joe's cheese selection and flowers! So affordable and easy.

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To keep up with Amber’s personal hosting style, creative events, and thoughtful entertaining tips, follow her on Instagram at @banksandleaf or visit Banks & Leaf to explore her latest work. If you're feeling inspired to host your own gathering, sign up for a free Partytrick account to explore curated templates, expert tips, and everything you need to bring your next event to life.

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