Jennifer Zabinski has built her career around one simple truth. The most unforgettable celebrations happen when people feel genuinely taken care of. As Founder and President of JZ Events, Jennifer has spent over two decades designing and executing high-profile weddings and events across the globe, earning recognition from the world’s top fashion and lifestyle publications.

With roots in luxury hospitality and a reputation for precision, collaboration, and trust, Jennifer brings a refined yet deeply personal approach to everything she hosts. At home, that same philosophy translates into gatherings that feel elevated without ever feeling stiff. Think candlelight, soulful music, thoughtful details, and guests who immediately exhale the moment they arrive. For Jennifer, hosting is not about perfection. It’s about connection, comfort, and creating space for people to truly enjoy themselves.

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

A: I try to do one or two “signature” moments that feel very me. Like a glam holiday cocktail served in beautiful glassware, or a dessert bar that looks almost too pretty to touch. The cousins are deep in conversation on the couch, the dogs are probably stealing a canapé, my family’s laughing in the kitchen. But those little elevated details make it feel special and intentional. It’s all about that balance of polished and high-end entertaining, but never so perfect that you can’t kick off your heels and actually enjoy the night.

That balance is where Jennifer’s hosting magic lives. The room feels styled, but the energy stays loose. Nothing feels off-limits.

Q: Favorite ways to break the ice or entertain guests?

A: I always start with the idea that luxury should feel relaxed, not stiff. I greet everyone at the door, take their coat, hand them a drink and show them where everything is so they do not feel like they need to ask permission. The house is candlelit, the music is soft and there are good snacks, but nothing is too precious to touch. Kids can play, the dogs wander through, and guests are told to make themselves at home.

This is hospitality in its purest form. Remove friction, remove formality, and let people settle in.

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

A: For me, the real hosting essentials have everything to do with how your guests experience the event. I want people to walk in and instantly breathe a sigh of relief. My guests have a drink in their hand within the first two minutes and never worry about taking the last hors d’oeuvre. I always think about dietary preferences, kid-friendly options, a spot to stash handbags and coats, and a cozy corner to sit and talk. Even the bathroom is stocked with nice soap, extra towels, and a candle.

At the end of the night, the décor, the outfit, the tablescape is fun. But the true essential is that every guest feels relaxed, taken care of, and just a tiny bit spoiled.

Q: What makes a great gathering memorable?

A: I always start with the idea that luxury should feel relaxed, not stiff. I greet everyone at the door, take their coat, hand them a drink and show them where everything is so they do not feel like they need to ask permission. The house is candlelit, the music is soft and there are good snacks, but nothing is too precious to touch.

When guests stop asking where things are and start acting like they belong, you’ve done it right.

Q: Tips for someone feeling overwhelmed by hosting at home?

A: An incredible playlist and good tequila will certainly keep guests entertained throughout the whole night. Music brings everyone together.

Sometimes the best hosting advice is also the simplest.

Q: Go-to dinner party soundtrack?

A: Soulful, feel-good music. John Legend, Leon Bridges, and especially anything written or performed by the David Higgins Band. It creates such an effortless, inviting atmosphere.

Q: What is your favorite party trick?

A: For me, the real hosting essentials have everything to do with how your guests experience the event. I want people to walk in and instantly breath a sign of relief. My guests have a drink in their hand within the first two minutes and never worry about taking the last hors d’oeuvre. I always think about dietary preferences, kid-friendly options, a spot to stash handbags and coats, and a cozy corner to sit and talk. Even the bathroom is stocked with nice soap, extra towels, and a candle. At the end of the night, the décor, the outfit, the tablescape is fun (and I absolutely love it all). But the true essential is that every guest feels relaxed, taken care of, and just a tiny bit spoiled.

Q: What do you love about Partytrick?

A: I love that Partytrick empowers the host to actually be a guest at their own event. True hospitality isn't just about the tablescape. It’s about the energy in the room. When a host is stressed or stuck in the kitchen, the guests feel it. Partytrick handles the mental load so you can focus on connection.

Q: Most memorable party you’ve hosted or attended?

A: Christmas Eve dinner at our Hamptons home. Family, friends, caviar, and zero judgment for the littles running amok. It’s curated, warm, and deeply personal.

Q: Favorite hosting brands and products?‍

A: Dear Annabelle for place cards, Casa Azul tequila on the bar, and Mrs. Alice tablescapes. Always.

To explore Jennifer’s world of refined yet deeply personal celebrations, follow her on Instagram at @jzevents or browse her work at www.jzevents.com. And when you’re ready to host something of your own, Partytrick makes it easy to bring everything together. With curated templates, thoughtful tools, and planning support that lifts the mental load, Partytrick helps you host beautifully and actually enjoy it.