with
Host How I Host: Emma Jesberg
Host How I Host: Emma Jesberg
Hosts with imaginations all their own
Design Director of EJ Interior Design
"Glassware—no one wants to drink out of plastic."
Psst... Did you know that you can get discounts with Member Perks? Start today to save.
What's your process for planning a gathering in your home?
I always start with a theme or what the table is going to look like. Or what flowers are in season! I also love incorporating an activity, game, or surprise element into the brunch, lunch, or dinner.
What are your go-to party activities or games to break the ice?
Having guests write letters to themselves that they will open at another dinner party the next year! I hide a notecard under guest's dinner plates and during dessert have them write a note to themselves that I will save for another fun gathering.
"Having guests write letters to themselves that they will open at another dinner party the next year!"
If you had a limited budget to put together a small dinner party, what would you focus on for the tablescape?
Flowers—even if its just a few single stems in bud vases. And glassware—no one wants to drink out of plastic.
What makes a great gathering memorable?
Gathering a unique group of people that might not know each other. There is nothing better than friends mentioning months later they met a new friend and they have been hanging out.
" There is nothing better than friends mentioning months later they met a new friend and they have been hanging out.
If someone is feeling overwhelmed by hosting their friends in their home, what tips would you give them?
One step at a time! Find a date, get inspired by something: A recipe, a theme, an occasion, and commit to it!
"One step at a time! Find a date, get inspired by something."
Favorite recipe or food to serve when hosting?
Melissa Clark's Harissa Chicken With Leeks, Potatoes, & Yogurt. An elevated crowd pleaser and you can prep it ahead of time. I am all about a sheet pan dish. I also add cauliflower to this dish.
What is the soundtrack to a dinner party in your home? Have any favorite playlists?
So many to share on Spotify!
What is your favorite partytrick?
You will have to come over to know!
Join their party:
- Instagram: @ej.interiordesign
- Website: ejinteriordesign.com
- Personal IG: @emmajesberg
Don't forget... check out the many Member Perks available to Partytrick members. Join today!
More articles
Host How I Host: Beth Helmstetter’s Guide to Hosting That Guests Actually Feel
Beth Helmstetter, Founder and Creative Director of Beth Helmstetter Events, designs gatherings by starting with the feeling she wants guests to carry home. Here, Beth shares the simple decisions that make a dinner party feel warm, playful, and deeply cared for.
Host How I Host: Janie Lemons on Theme-First Hosting That Feels Effortless
Janie Lemons, founder of Aspen-based luxury wedding planner J.Lemons Events, brings the same calm precision and playful sophistication to hosting at home. Her theme-first approach, clever “high-low” details, and simple planning hacks make gatherings feel elevated without feeling fussy.
.jpeg)
Host How I Host: Tracy Taylor Ward on Designing a Mood-First Dinner Party
Tracy Taylor Ward shares her mood-first approach to hosting — how to choose a theme, build a cohesive table, and create the kind of effortless flow guests remember. Steal her best tricks to make your next dinner party feel elevated without feeling complicated.
Sign up for expert tips, exclusive content, and the 411 on the latest parties—all straight to your inbox.
Your shortcut to stress-free hosting
Spend less time coordinating and more time actually connecting.