Hosts with imaginations all their own

Head of Parties, Digital Media Host, & Content Creator

"Igniting conversation with passion versus what we do for work sets the tone for a flowing conversation all night long."

What's your process for planning a gathering in your home?

Since food is my forte, I always start with the menu, but like to keep my focus on one thing and lean on convenience (or delegation) so the lift isn't too much. I like to host smaller dinner parties, so I will cater the menu to what I know my guests like and work backwards from there.

What are your go-to party activities or games to break the ice?

My favorite question to start things off is, "If you had to give a 30-minute presentation right now with no preparation, what would you talk about?" Igniting conversation with passion versus what we do for work sets the tone for a flowing conversation all night long.

"If you had to give a 30-minute presentation right now with no preparation, what would you talk about?"

If you had a limited budget to put together a small dinner party, what would you focus on for the tablescape?

Taper candles always look great in an empty wine bottle, but you also can't go wrong with picking up one color of grocery store flowers and dropping into simple bud vases you can thrift or find on Amazon.

What makes a great gathering memorable?

"Authenticity. The easiest way to make an impact when hosting is to focus on how the gathering feels."

Sometimes hosts focus too much on making everything perfect, that they forget to sink into the moment and have a good time. Use what you have and let that be enough! Last week I used a linen flat sheet as a tablecloth because I didn't have what I wanted.

If someone is feeling overwhelmed by hosting their friends in their home, what tips would you give them?

Don't try to be the person who does everything. Set up a self-serve bar so you aren't stuck bartending all night. Delegate where it makes sense and let your guests help. The bests hosts know that they set the tone of the evening, so the more relaxed you are the better. If that means ordering the food and not cooking, do it!

Favorite recipe or food to serve when hosting?

I love sending people home with fresh baked cookies. I even did this at my wedding! My friends have been requesting these Chex Mix Chocolate Chip Cookies on repeat. 

What is the soundtrack to a dinner party in your home? Have any favorite playlists?

My personal Friday Night Dinner Party Playlist 

What is your favorite partytrick?

I like to keep pre-rolled cookie dough in my freezer for those moments someone stops over.

"How convenient, I just pulled these warm fresh baked cookies out of the oven, do you want one?" Works every time.

About our host

Known to many as Cassidyeats, we know Cassidy Ceresa as our very own Head of Parties. Her belief is that every day should be celebrated and we shouldn't wait for a special occasion to host and gather. Today is the special occasion! Check out her blog, podcast, and instagram, for more.

Join her party:

• Spotify Podcast: podcass
• Website: cassidyeats.com
• Instagram: @cassidyeats 

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