As the founder of Calluna Events, Heather Dwight has spent the last two decades designing weddings and events that feel iconic yet deeply authentic. Her work is recognized for its refined aesthetic, meticulous detail, and a collaborative planning style that puts people first. That philosophy carries seamlessly into how she hosts in her own home.

For Heather, a successful gathering starts with intention. Who’s coming, why you’re celebrating, and how you want people to feel once they walk through the door. From foraged tablescapes and heirloom china to playlists that read the room, her approach to entertaining is elevated without being overcomplicated. It’s thoughtful, prepared, and grounded in genuine connection. In this Host How I Host feature, Heather shares the simple principles that help her create gatherings that feel calm, memorable, and truly meaningful.

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

A: The guest list and the occasion! What I plan depends on who is coming, how many people, and what we are celebrating.

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

I love greeting guests at the door and immediately making sure they have a drink in hand and an introduction to someone if they don’t know anyone. My favorite thing is finding things in common with friends and making introductions with people who I feel have a lot in common. I truly have the most inspiring friends and I love when they have a chance to meet each other.

Q: Limited budget dinner party. Where do you focus your tablescape?

A: I love foraging for flowers, grasses, berries, and things in nature to create a tablescape, especially seasonal décor that’s readily found like evergreen. Candlelight can go a long way to making a table feel elegant without having to go overboard. Sometimes I’ll design with just candles and skip florals for a simple but impactful look. Lastly, I love using my parents’ heirloom, vintage Wedgwood china for more formal entertaining.

Q: What makes a gathering truly memorable?

A: It’s truly the people who make gatherings memorable. Shared connection and authentic conversations with genuine people make for a memorable event.

Q: Tips for hosts feeling overwhelmed?

A: A friend once told me her tip was to reduce the guest count. By doing that, she was able to have genuine conversations and not feel pulled in so many directions. I completely agree. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, try shrinking the guest list even a little. You’ll prepare less and feel calmer during the event. And if financially possible, pay for someone to clean your home before or after. I don’t personally take that advice myself, but honestly, it would help take a big thing off your plate.

Q: Your signature thing to serve when hosting?

A: I always love having ample sparkling wine and sparkling water. Since I have kids, most of my parties include adults and kids alike, so having plenty of beverages for both is important.

Q: Go-to dinner party soundtrack?

A: It depends on who’s coming. I have pretty eclectic taste, and sometimes you want to cover all the bases. Lately, it’s a mix of Olivia Dean, Fleetwood Mac, Talking Heads, Gregory Alan Isakov, Ocie Elliot, Fleet Foxes, Leon Bridges, Taylor Swift, and The National.

Q: Your favorite party trick?

A: I start prepping a few days before. The house is clean, everything is purchased, the playlist is made, ice is ready, bathrooms are stocked, candles are lit, and food is out as guests arrive. I prep a bar area with water, wine, alcohol, and glassware so it’s easy for me and for guests to self-serve throughout the evening.

Q: What do you love most about Partytrick?

A: I love your gift guides. Whether for parties or hostess gifts, I’m always looking for fun ways to elevate gift giving.

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

A: The most memorable event we planned was a 40th birthday party at the Caribou Club. Guests were greeted with champagne and caviar, enjoyed a multi-course menu, surprise performances by Vanilla Ice and En Vogue, and were gifted Hermes blankets as party favors. It was unforgettable.

Q: Favorite brands to use when hosting?

A: My friends own Scarpetta Wine, so I love supporting them. They offer Italian wines like prosecco, pinot grigio, sparkling rosé, and canned Frico Frizzante, which is perfect for picnics or when I don’t want to open a full bottle.

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Get inspired by Heather Dwight’s thoughtful approach to gathering by following her on Instagram @callunaevents or exploring Calluna Events online. When you’re ready to host something of your own, Partytrick brings everything together in one place. From curated templates to expert guidance, it’s a simpler way to plan beautifully. Sign up for a free Partytrick account and start creating your next gathering with confidence.