Chelsea Wenner and Natalie Laskowski are the creative force behind Kiran + Leigh, a wedding planning and design studio known for crafting one-of-one wedding weekends that guests remember the way they remember a great trip. Their work blends editorial design with impeccable orchestration, always grounded in intention rather than excess.

That same philosophy carries into how they host at home. For Chelsea and Natalie, gatherings are about setting a tone, shifting energy, and making people feel instantly at ease. Décor matters, but only when it supports the experience. Music matters, but only when it encourages natural conversation. From greeting guests with a drink already poured to transforming spaces into something unexpected, they believe hosting should feel expressive, not overwhelming. The result is a style of gathering that feels elevated yet effortless, and deeply human.

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

A: As creatives, décor is always top of mind. It’s a way to set the tone. But every decision is grounded in intention. When the purpose is clear, the design feels expressive without excess, supporting the gathering rather than competing with it.

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

A: A great playlist, a well-placed drink station, and a space that encourages people to mingle naturally go further than any formal icebreaker. When guests feel comfortable, conversation takes care of itself.

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

A: Candlelight, good linens, and one intentional detail.

Q: What makes a great gathering memorable?

A: A shift in energy. Forgetting the woes of the week. When guests arrive as themselves and leave feeling lighter, more connected, or inspired.

Q: Tips for hosts feeling overwhelmed?

A: Don’t overthink it. Good lighting, good music, and a simple setup do more than a perfectly planned evening ever will.

Q: Signature recipe to serve when hosting?

A: Chelsea’s is mezcal Negronis. Equal parts, easy to batch, and strong enough to get the conversation flowing. Natalie’s is espresso martinis with tequila.

Q: Go-to dinner party soundtrack?

A: Chelsea gravitates toward jazz, bossa nova, and a touch of vintage soul. Natalie’s playlists range from Harry Styles and Billie Eilish to Ella Langley and Zach Bryan, with always a little bit of Taylor Swift.

Q: Favorite party trick?

A: Greet everyone with a drink already poured. It eliminates awkward starts and instantly shifts people into the moment.

Q: What do you love about Partytrick?

A: Partytrick represents a shift toward substance. It highlights the people and perspectives behind gatherings, not just aesthetics or trends.

Q: Most memorable party you’ve hosted?

A: One transformed the space into a dune-esque environment. Putting people into an unfamiliar setting created immediate connection. Shared experience is always what makes a gathering last.

Q: Favorite products for hosting?

A: Unique vessels for serving cocktails and pieces collected through travel that naturally become conversation starters.

‍

Get inspired by Chelsea and Natalie’s approach to gathering and design by following @kiranandleigh or exploring their work at Kiran + Leigh. Their world is a masterclass in how intention elevates experience. 

Ready to Host Your Own? Partytrick makes hosting easier with curated templates, smart planning tools, and expert guidance all in one place. Create a free Partytrick account and bring your next gathering to life with clarity and confidence.