"Igniting conversation with passion versus what we do for work sets the tone for a flowing conversation all night long."
Since food is my forte, I always start with the menu, but like to keep my focus on one thing and lean on convenience (or delegation) so the lift isn't too much. I like to host smaller dinner parties, so I will cater the menu to what I know my guests like and work backwards from there.
My favorite question to start things off is, "If you had to give a 30-minute presentation right now with no preparation, what would you talk about?" Igniting conversation with passion versus what we do for work sets the tone for a flowing conversation all night long.
"If you had to give a 30-minute presentation right now with no preparation, what would you talk about?"
Taper candles always look great in an empty wine bottle, but you also can't go wrong with picking up one color of grocery store flowers and dropping into simple bud vases you can thrift or find on Amazon.
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"Authenticity. The easiest way to make an impact when hosting is to focus on how the gathering feels."
Sometimes hosts focus too much on making everything perfect, that they forget to sink into the moment and have a good time. Use what you have and let that be enough! Last week I used a linen flat sheet as a tablecloth because I didn't have what I wanted.
Don't try to be the person who does everything. Set up a self-serve bar so you aren't stuck bartending all night. Delegate where it makes sense and let your guests help. The bests hosts know that they set the tone of the evening, so the more relaxed you are the better. If that means ordering the food and not cooking, do it!
I love sending people home with fresh baked cookies. I even did this at my wedding! My friends have been requesting these Chex Mix Chocolate Chip Cookies on repeat.
My personal Friday Night Dinner Party Playlist
I like to keep pre-rolled cookie dough in my freezer for those moments someone stops over.
"How convenient, I just pulled these warm fresh baked cookies out of the oven, do you want one?" Works every time.
Known to many as Cassidyeats, we know Cassidy Ceresa as our very own Head of Parties. Her belief is that every day should be celebrated and we shouldn't wait for a special occasion to host and gather. Today is the special occasion! Check out her blog, podcast, and instagram, for more.
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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