How I Host

Host How I Host: Dan Incropera

Image Credit: Dan Incropera

Meet Dan Incropera—Sales Director at Craftmix, cocktail enthusiast, and passionate host who believes Happy Hour should be easy, inclusive, and portable. With a better-for-you mixer brand that makes crafting mocktails or cocktails simple (and low-calorie!), Dan brings a thoughtful and lighthearted approach to gathering with friends. Whether he’s curating playlists with his girlfriend or shaking up Craftmix Espresso Martinis, Dan’s vibe is all about fun, flexibility, and making memories that stick.

Where Dan Starts When Planning a Gathering

For Dan, everything starts with the occasion.

Whether it’s a casual hangout, a housewarming, or something more structured, he lets the “why” shape the “how.” That mindset grounds his planning in purpose—from the people he invites to the music, drinks, and mood he wants to create.

How He Breaks the Ice

Dan keeps things simple: “Music is always a great start!”

The right playlist can melt awkwardness, fill space, and get conversations flowing—no extra effort required. His ideal mix? A little Drake, a little Taylor Swift (his girlfriend’s favorite).

“We settle for a mixed playlist LOL!”

That playful compromise is a great reminder that shared tastes (and shared speakers) bring people together.

Image Credit: Dan Incropera

Tablescaping on a Budget

When working with limited funds, Dan’s go-to strategy is shopping sales or using coupons. It's a reminder that good hosting doesn't have to mean big spending—it’s about being resourceful and thoughtful.

What Makes a Gathering Memorable

Dan is all about inclusivity.

“Being inclusive for everyone, and knowing your guests' likes/dislikes” is what sticks with people.

That might mean offering a non-alcoholic drink option, remembering someone’s dietary preference, or just curating a space that feels safe and casual.

It’s not just about what you serve or how you decorate—it’s about how people feel when they’re there. And Dan makes sure they feel like they belong.

Tips for Overwhelmed Hosts

“You can clean every day for the rest of your life, but this event may only happen once!”

That’s Dan’s advice to anyone caught in the pressure spiral of hosting. He’s all about perspective—and letting go of perfection so you can actually enjoy your own event.

Instead of chasing spotless baseboards, he encourages hosts to embrace the one-time magic of the moment. The mess will still be there tomorrow—but the memories? You’re making those now.

Signature Hosting Recipe

When it comes to drinks, Dan keeps things creative—and functional. His go-to recipe? A Craftmix Espresso Martini—but make it a mocktail.

“Just 4oz of flat still water, shaken up and poured into a martini glass!”

It’s elegant, easy, and caffeine-forward without the booze. This drink is a perfect example of Dan’s style: fun, accessible, and just elevated enough to feel special.

Favorite Hosting Products

Craftmix, easy!”

No surprise here—Craftmix is central to Dan’s hosting toolkit. These all-natural, powdered cocktail and mocktail mixers are portable, low-calorie (just 25!), and only 5g of sugar. Perfect for on-the-go events, casual hangs, or dinner parties where you want something special without the mess or mixers.

Image Credit: Dan Incropera

Want to bring Dan’s signature Espresso Martini move to your next gathering? Follow @craftmix or head to craftmix.com to shop the all-natural mixers he swears by. Ready to host a gathering of your own? Partytrick gives you everything you need—customizable templates, expert tips, playlists, and a space to organize every detail. Say goodbye to a million open tabs, and hello to streamlined, stylish hosting. Start planning your next event with Partytrick


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