Erin Cleveland is the founder and creative force behind Erin Cleveland Events, a wedding planning and design studio serving Central Virginia and the DC area. While her professional work centers on crafting weddings that feel deeply personal and thoughtfully designed, hosting at home is where her philosophy shines most clearly. Erin approaches gatherings the same way she approaches events for her clients. With intention, warmth, and a strong sense of flow.

Her approach to hosting is rooted in intentionality rather than perfection. Strategic place cards spark conversation, warm lighting sets the tone, and small touches like decaf coffee after dinner make guests feel genuinely cared for. For Erin, memorable gatherings aren’t about impressing. They’re about appealing to all five senses and creating moments that mark time, seasons, and friendships.

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

A: I love planning out a menu for my guests to enjoy, and then I let the inspiration flow into decor. I love both aspects of planning equally.

Menus first, mood second. It’s a framework Erin uses both professionally and personally, letting the food dictate the feel of the night and the details that follow.

Q: What are your go-to ways to break the ice?

A: I love a seated dinner with place cards, which I usually try to strategically place for people to meet, mix, and mingle. Somehow the night always ends in either a game or dancing, which is my favorite part!

Place cards might feel formal, but in Erin’s world, they’re an invitation. A nudge toward new conversations and unexpected connections that set the tone for the rest of the night.

Q: If you had a limited budget, what would you prioritize on the table?

A: Either a patterned linen or patterned plates, and at least one floral arrangement!

A single statement moment goes further than lots of small ones. Erin’s advice proves that one intentional choice can anchor an entire tablescape.

Q: What makes a gathering truly memorable?

A: I always plan to appeal all five senses when curating an event. Warm lighting, the smell of amazing food, good company. It all matters!

It’s not just how a table looks, but how the night feels. Erin designs for memory, not just aesthetics.

Q: What’s your advice for someone feeling overwhelmed by hosting?

A: You set the tone. If you can go into it trying to stay relaxed, make a nice meal, and set out some candles, others will feel relaxed too. And then everyone can enjoy!

Hosting, according to Erin, is less about control and more about energy. Calm is contagious.

Q: What’s your signature recipe to serve guests?

A: Lamb ragu has been a favorite lately. It’s warm, cozy, and easy to share. Specifically Alison Roman’s recipe because she’s my favorite!

A shared dish, slow-cooked and comforting, fits perfectly with Erin’s philosophy of lingering at the table.

Q: What’s your favorite party trick?

A: Something to snack on while dinner is finishing up, place cards always, decaf coffee immediately after dinner, and Quiplash after dessert.

It’s a full arc of the evening. Thoughtful pacing, a little structure, and just enough playfulness to keep things fun.

Q: What’s the most memorable gathering you’ve hosted or attended?

A: Every dinner party with my closest friends feels like it marks special seasons of my life. I also look forward to hosting my annual team Christmas party. White elephant is my favorite!

For Erin, gatherings are timestamps. Moments that quietly document friendships, work, and life as it evolves.

Q: Favorite hosting products or brands?

A: Alison Roman’s cookbook Nothing Fancy, my signature pink plates I thrifted years ago, and my Transformer Table. It easily can sit from four up to ten!

A mix of sentimental finds and practical investments that make hosting feel both personal and doable.

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Erin’s approach to hosting is a reminder that the most meaningful gatherings aren’t about doing the most. They’re about doing a few things thoughtfully. Get inspired by Erin’s approach to gathering by following her on Instagram @erinclevelandevents or exploring her work at www.erinclevelandevents.com. And when you’re ready to host something of your own, Partytrick makes it simple. From customizable templates to smart planning tools, everything you need lives in one place so you can focus on what actually matters. Create your free Partytrick account and start planning your next gathering with ease.