Sneh Diwan is the founder of Diwan By Design, a boutique event planning and design studio known for luxury weddings, destination celebrations, and immersive experiences that feel unforgettable in all the right ways. 

When it comes to hosting at home, Sneh’s approach is refreshingly grounded: start with the people, set the tone with intention, and let the design fall into place from there.

If you’ve ever felt like hosting has to be perfect to be “good,” Sneh is here to remind you that the best gatherings aren’t measured by how flawless they look, but by how cared for your guests feel when they leave.

Hosting Q&A with Sneh Diwan

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

A: I always start with the guests and the occasion first. Those two things naturally determine the menu, decor, and even the theme, if appropriate. A good host keeps their guests' preferences and needs in mind, especially when planning the menu, and creates an atmosphere centered on making everyone feel comfortable and welcome. Once the tone and purpose of the gathering are clear, all of the aesthetic and design details tend to fall into place naturally.

Q: What are your favorite ways to break the ice or entertain guests?

A: Music is always a great ice-breaker. Whether it’s a nostalgic playlist, new artists, or a niche genre, it helps set the mood immediately and gives guests something natural to connect and talk about. I love creating an atmosphere where conversation flows organically rather than relying on formal icebreakers, so thoughtful details like music, a welcoming setup, and a well-curated menu make a big difference.

I also enjoy incorporating signature cocktails, grazing boards, family-style dining, or interactive elements, depending on the crowd and occasion. Ultimately, I think the best gatherings are the ones where guests feel comfortable, included, and genuinely cared for.

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

A: I would focus on creating an intimate, thoughtful tablescape with a few high-impact details rather than overcomplicating it. Candles, fresh flowers or greenery, and coordinated dinnerware can completely transform a table without requiring a large budget.

Texture and atmosphere matter more than extravagance. Cloth napkins, beautiful glassware, handwritten place cards, or thoughtfully styled serving dishes can make guests feel special and create a polished experience. Keeping the design cohesive and intentional is more important to me than having everything be expensive.

Q: What makes a great gathering memorable?

A: As a guest, I always remember a gathering based on how I felt leaving it. As a host, be intentional with the occasion and make your guests feel seen. Include all of your guests in conversation. If people haven’t met before, introduce guests by noting something they might have in common, giving them a point to start their meeting.

Q: What tips would you give someone overwhelmed by hosting friends at home?

A: Your friends are not going to judge you if everything isn’t perfect. They are coming to enjoy your company and spend some time together. Comfort is key. Don’t go out of your way to make yourself and your home something that doesn’t resemble you, because you’ll spend the rest of the evening worried if something is out of place.

While you want to put your best foot forward, be authentic. Plan a gathering where you’d be in your element, whether that’s a movie night and a themed meal, or a brunch and book club. The hosting will come naturally when you’re already doing something you love.

Q: What’s your favorite party trick?

A: Candles everywhere. Nothing transforms a space faster. I love using candles with similar signature scents throughout the house so guests instantly associate the party with a specific mood and memory.

I also love elevating drinks with fun garnishes like dried fruit, playful stirrers, or fun-shaped ice cubes. It instantly makes cocktails feel more special and intentional.

Q: What do you love about Partytrick, and what’s your favorite feature?

A: I love how Partytrick makes hosting feel approachable, elevated, and creative all at once. It’s not just about planning an event, it’s about discovering thoughtful details and clever ideas that make gatherings feel memorable and personal.

My favorite features are What to Set Out for Drinks (Without Overcomplicating It) and David Stark on Seasonal Menus, Candlelit Tables, and Thoughtful Seating. I am a huge fan and admirer of David Stark.

Q: What are your favorite products or brands to use when hosting?

A: D.S. & Durga, Diptyque Candles, or Voluspa candles, plus disposable tableware from Sophistiplate.

Partytrick Take: Real Hosting Takeaways

Sneh’s style is a reminder that the most impactful hosting choices are often the simplest. Start with the guest list and the occasion, then build a mood that invites everyone to relax. A cohesive atmosphere and a few thoughtful touches can do more than an overbuilt plan.

How can I recreate this hosting style in a simple way?

Pick one element that sets the tone and build around it. Try candlelight plus a playlist you love, then keep the menu straightforward. Add one interactive detail, like a grazing board or a signature cocktail, and let conversation be the main event.

What is the most important planning decision behind this gathering?

Define the purpose of the night and who it’s for. When you know whether you’re celebrating, reconnecting, or introducing friends for the first time, you can make smarter choices around seating, pacing, and what to serve. The gathering will feel intentional without feeling fussy.

What can hosts borrow from this approach for their own event?

• Start with guests’ comfort and preferences, then plan the rest.
• Use music to set the tone and make conversation feel effortless.
• Create a cohesive tablescape with candles, greenery, and a few textured details.
• Introduce guests with a shared point of connection to help the room warm up quickly.

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Want more from Sneh Diwan? Follow along on Instagram @diwanbydesign and visit diwanbydesign.com for more hosting and celebration inspiration. Ready to plan your own? Create a free Partytrick account and start with our playbooks.

• Classic Dinner Party
• Caviar Dreams
• Supper & Sips

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