Kate Pauley, founder of Create Dinners, shares insights on planning and hosting successful dinner parties. She emphasizes the importance of defining a clear purpose for the event, suggesting that a lack of purpose can negatively impact the planning process. “The best dinner parties I’ve been to and hosted all had a clear mission,” she notes.
Pauley offers an example of an End of Summer Garden Party, where seasonal elements like peaches and strawberries are featured in both decor and menu. The event encourages guests to reflect on their summer experiences.
Recent trends in dinner parties include themes inspired by social media phenomena such as “Tomato Girl Summer.” Silver is making a comeback in party decor, replacing gold with items like candelabras and flatware. Non-alcoholic beverages are gaining popularity among hosts who want to ensure inclusivity at their events.
Pauley observes a blend of maximalism and minimalism in party design, highlighting extravagant cakes and tinned fish alongside neutral color schemes. She suggests that hosts consider new spaces for their events, using platforms like Peerspace to find suitable venues.
For those looking to enhance their gatherings without overspending, Pauley recommends investing in reusable items that add elegance to the setting. Examples include quality olive oil or stylish candlestick holders.
She stresses the value of conversation and connection at dinner parties. At Create Dinners events, prompts or questions are used to encourage interaction among guests. “It’s so easy to dip in-and-out of an event without really talking to anyone,” she says.
Reflecting on her experience with Create Dinners over seven years, Pauley notes the increasing desire for meaningful connections through shared meals or creative experiences. “We’re all craving connection more than we even realized,” she concludes.
