with
Host How I Host: Meredith McAllister
Host How I Host: Meredith McAllister
Hosts with imaginations all their own
CEO & Co-founder of Marma
Psst... Did you know that you can get discounts with Member Perks? Start today to save.
What's your process for planning a gathering in your home?
I love entertaining, and it always starts with an occasion - whether it's just a weekend evening hangout that becomes a firepit and cozy wine night or a planned birthday party that calls for a dedicated theme. Everything else comes together for me after that.
What are your go-to party activities or games to break the ice?
If the weather is nice, I love some yard games. If there is a good theme, I love a costume party with some competition tied to it.
If you had a limited budget to put together a small dinner party, what would you focus on for the tablescape?
Fresh flowers & candles. Why change a good thing?
What makes a great gathering memorable?
Good food and wine and conversation. I always try to keep things simple or outsource it. If I'm stressed and running around trying to make everything perfect, my guests can pick up on it and it's less enjoyable for them.
If someone is feeling overwhelmed by hosting their friends in their home, what tips would you give them?
If cooking stresses you out, outsource the food or pick an event that doesn't center around food. It doesn't need to be fancy - just plan as much as you can out.
"Think about what you're most excited about doing yourself and outsource the rest."
Favorite recipe or food to serve when hosting?
We love cooking seasonally (both the actual food and the preparation). If it's summer, we're definitely grilling and making cocktails. Wintertime calls for cozy stews, crusty bread and wine.
What is the soundtrack to a dinner party in your home? Have any favorite playlists?
June Tunes from Spotify or Dinner Jazz.
What is your favorite partytrick?
I cannot wait to try Lunar New Year!
About our Host
Meredith McAllister, CEO & Co-founder of Marma, is an entrepreneur, mother, and lover of hosting and attending parties. She currently runs Marma, a platform for nutrition during the birthing years. Prior to Marma, she founded a curbside compost company. She spends her ‘spare time’ chasing around her one and four-year-old, and looking for any reason to celebrate.
Join her party:
- Instagram: @marmahealth
- Website: MARMA.health
Don't forget... check out the many Member Perks available to Partytrick members. Join today!
More articles
Curated By: Frances Grace of Sweet Flower Farm
Hudson Valley farmer and former florist Frances Grace shares how local ingredients, garden-grown flowers, thoughtful tables, and meaningful conversation shape relaxed, intimate gatherings at Sweet Flower Farm.
Host How I Host: Sheila Tran on Making Everyday Gatherings Feel Special
Three Times a Home creator Sheila Tran shares how she turns approachable ideas into memorable gatherings—starting with an irresistible theme, focusing on a few high-impact details, and staying present once guests arrive.
20 School Spirit Week Ideas + How to Plan a Spirit Week
Spirit Week is easier to manage when themes, activities, supplies, volunteers, and promotion are organized in one clear plan. This guide shares 20 school spirit week ideas plus a simple planning timeline to help your team choose themes, assign responsibilities, and keep the week running smoothly.
Sign up for expert tips, exclusive content, and the 411 on the latest parties—all straight to your inbox.
Your shortcut to stress-free hosting
Spend less time coordinating and more time actually connecting.