As the Founder and Creative Director of Metheny & Company, Brittnie Dorfman has built a reputation for creating weddings and events that feel immersive, intentional, and beautifully executed. Her work bridges the gap between creative vision and operational mastery, which is exactly what sets her apart. When Brittnie hosts at home, that same philosophy applies. She doesn’t believe in throwing something together last minute or hosting without purpose. Every gathering starts with a clear occasion, a defined aesthetic, and a commitment to creating something guests have never experienced before. From rearranging furniture to rethinking lighting, Brittnie turns everyday spaces into moments people talk about long after the night ends.

Q: When you’re planning a gathering at home, where do you start?

A: I don’t host often because I spend most of my time creating events for other people. But when I do host, I really host. I’m not someone who throws something together casually. It’s just not in my DNA. If I’m inviting people into my home, it’s going to wow.

Because of that, my gatherings are usually tied to a specific occasion, and that’s always my starting point. Once the purpose of the gathering is clear, I’ll define a theme or style goal and then plan every detail in alignment with that vision. It’s not uncommon for me to completely transform my home for an event. I’ve removed all the furniture from my living room more than once and turned it into what’s essentially a ballroom. Once the vision is set, every choice supports it, and that’s what makes the gathering feel cohesive, fun, and memorable for guests.

Q: How do you break the ice or keep guests entertained?

A: I’m not big on forced icebreakers, nothing that makes guests feel put on the spot. While there is definitely a time and place for organized activities, it’s best to let guests warm up to that.

My favorite way to break the ice is through a comfortable environment. Music playing as people arrive, a drink in their hand immediately, and a space that encourages people to gather naturally does more than any scripted activity.

I also love giving guests that may not know anyone else something to do. Keep their hands busy, make them feel needed and appreciated, and they’ll feel more comfortable engaging in their own time.

Q: If you had a limited budget, what would you prioritize for the tablescape?

A printed tablecloth is always my starting point. It creates a great foundation and makes the table feel full without piling on extra décor, which gives you more freedom to play with the lighting.

The light in the room sets the tone. Dim the overheads or skip them entirely, turn on sconces, move a couple of bedside lamps onto the table with some flowers. Add candles later, and bada bing, you’ve created something magical without overdoing it.

Q: What makes a gathering truly memorable?

A: For me, it’s all in the details. Anyone can host friends and family, but what sets your gathering apart is the effort you put into the small things.

Some people might call it over the top, but that’s my bread and butter. I don’t want my events to feel like every other dinner party someone has been to before. It’s those thoughtful details that get people talking and have them wanting to come back. And honestly, if the conversation is flowing and no one wants to leave, you’ve hit the mark.

Q: What advice do you have for someone overwhelmed by hosting?

A: Truthfully, if hosting isn’t something you enjoy, don’t feel obligated to do it. If it feels like a chore, your guests will feel that too.

But if you do need to host, keep it simple. Focus on good food, good drinks, and making the space feel cozy and welcoming. You don’t need to go over the top. When people feel comfortable and cared for, that’s more than enough.

Q: Do you have a signature recipe?

A: I don’t really have a signature recipe because I don’t cook from recipes. I cook by taste. I adjust as I go and trust my instincts. Cooking isn’t like baking. It doesn’t require scientific precision, and I love leaning into that.

Some of my go-to dishes are baked mac and cheese, buffalo chicken dip for something more casual, or a gooey cookie cup topped with ice cream.

For drinks, guests always ask for my signature imitation cocktail called a Good Ole Boy. It’s a wintery, warming drink inspired by a little restaurant my husband and I visit in Vermont every winter. I found a copycat recipe online and, of course, went off script.

Good Ole Boy Cocktail

• 1.5 oz brown butter bourbon
  
  
• 0.5 oz Amaro
  
  
• 1.5 oz pear nectar
  
  
• 0.75 oz burnt orange syrup
  
  
• 0.5 oz lemon juice
  
  
• 2 dashes bitters

Q: What’s always on your dinner party playlist?

The playlist is always determined by the event. You can’t play the same thing for a Halloween party that you do for a summer garden party. I love adding throwbacks though. Anything nostalgic for guests is always a win.

Q: What’s your favorite party trick?

A: I prep everything I can before guests arrive. Platters built, drinks batched, music queued. That way, once people are there, I’m present instead of running around.

The trick is that it looks effortless, even though it’s very intentional. I generally have a week-long prep itinerary. Spread it out and it won’t feel overwhelming.

Q: What do you love about Partytrick?

A: I love that Partytrick makes hosting feel approachable and shares tips that make you feel more confident, not more overwhelmed. I especially love the holiday posts.

Q: What’s the most memorable party you’ve ever hosted?

A: A Halloween party I threw just two weeks after moving into a new house. We hadn’t fully moved in yet, which meant the space was a total blank canvas. We transformed every room into something else entirely. We brought in a psychic for a readings room, turned the main space into a ballroom, and let the house unfold as a series of unexpected moments. It was something we never could have pulled off once the house was finished, and people are still talking about it.

Q: Favorite hosting products?

A: I love Le Creuset cookware and a really good set of sharp knives from Zwilling.

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To see how Brittnie brings intentional design and unforgettable details to life, follow @methenyandcompany on Instagram or visit www.methenyandco.com. Feeling inspired to host your own gathering? Partytrick makes it easier to plan with confidence, offering curated templates, expert tips, and all your hosting details in one place. Create a free Partytrick account and start turning your next idea into something memorable.