Host a dinner party                                                             Image via Pinterest

Entertaining at Home: Host a Fabulous Dinner Party

For many years, I hosted dinner parties all the time (like, almost every weekend), and I absolutely loved it. We moved into our neighborhood before our kids were born, and at the time there were many young families here. The minute we became involved with our local elementary school, we instantly bonded with other parents who quickly became dear friends. We all have fond memories of these get-togethers, with lots of fun and chaos happening everywhere!

As our kids grew up, the dinner parties continued, but they often turned into dance parties into the wee hours of the morning. Since they were often at my house (which I loved), everyone would bring something, which actually made the entertaining super easy. My girlfriends and I would run through a quick checklist before every party, then we’d have a good laugh after. The recap of the most important things: alcohol, music, and food … in that order! 😂

Those parties don’t happen as often anymore, but this time of year I’m always looking to refresh my home after a long winter season. First up, an exciting office update that was just completed this week. After that, I’ll be working on the main floor just in time to start entertaining again. When weather warms up, I’ll refresh my back patio. Along the way, I found a few things you might like — and be sure to read on to the very end, where I’m sharing the recipe for my favorite cocktail in the whole world (that I’m actually trying to replicate) … ha!

Entertaining tip: I remember reading Ina Garten’s entertaining/cookbooks at the time, and there’s one suggestion I still follow to this day. She recommended having the music ON before the first guests arrived, so when they walked in they’d know the party had started!

Design inspo

 

Style board: Martini Glasses | Bottle Opener | Book | Seagrass Glasses | Faux Plant | Tray | Cabinet | Faux Limes

I love setting up a bar space where your guests will feel comfortable helping themselves. The main stage is a pine antique console table that I’ve had for years. I’m currently rearranging the space to include a self-serve cocktail area. Below are a few ideas, including some new things I’ve found that you might like.

1. Get a cool console table or bar cart
2. Find trays and baskets you love
3. Add your favorite liquor! Hendricks Gin and Casamigos Blanco are two of my faves
4. Display your best glasses
5. Decorate with fresh flowers and fruit

Console tables

Trays

Coffee table books

Greenery

More décor

Found: Fave Cocktail recipe

 

This past November, I stayed at the Chiltern Firehouse in London by myself for three nights (read the post here). Talk about a special treat, since I’ve hardly ever stayed alone since having kids 27 years ago! The bar was so beautiful, and it was there that I had the best cocktail I think I’ve ever had in my life. I loved it so much that I swiped the menu, and now I’m trying to replicate it myself.

Here’s what I know: It’s called “Under the Volcano,” and unsurprisingly, many people there wanted the recipe. This is as close as I can get (it’s listed on the menu): Casamigos Reposado Tequila, Martini Fiero, Jalapeño Oil. Add a large ice cube, and dip half the rim in crystalized sugar. Enjoy!

Thank you for reading xx