Mara Smith is a mother of three and a former attorney and corporate strategist. She practiced law at a large firm in Chicago before joining the corporate strategy team at a Fortune 500 company. When she was put on emergency bedrest while pregnant with twins, Mara made the difficult decision to leave the corporate world—but she never stopped thinking about what was next.

Driven by a desire to build a company of her own and inspired by a gap she saw in the spirits market, Mara launched Inspiro Tequila in 2020. A clean, additive-free tequila made by and for women, Inspiro reflects her passion for mindful drinking, entrepreneurship, and female empowerment. Today, Mara brings that same intentionality to how she hosts at home—where good drinks, bold desserts, and genuine connection always take center stage.

Q: Where do you start when planning a gathering?

A: I start with the occasion. I usually host around a special occasion.

Mara believes anchoring the experience in a specific moment makes the event feel more intentional and memorable.

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

A: A great tequila cocktail will always break the ice. Everyone knows when they come in they need to find out what the signature drink I'm making is.

For Mara, a good drink sparks connection—and guests walk in already anticipating the fun.

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

A: Flowers. I think great floral arrangements make a table.

Even simple arrangements can elevate the ambiance—Mara keeps it elegant without overcomplicating.

Q: Share your signature recipe (food or beverage) to serve when hosting?

A: My family loves baked salami for an appetizer and I'm known for going crazy on dessert. I always have a seasonal twist on a tequila and soda - right now it's a pomegranate spritz.

Mara’s hosting formula? Crowd-pleasing apps, playful desserts, and a cocktail that gets people talking.

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

A: Everyone just loves to be together and they won't notice if anything isn't perfect.

Perfection isn't the point—connection is. Mara encourages hosts to let go and enjoy the moment.

Q: What is your favorite partytrick?

A: If we can play a game that's my favorite. We used to host a day after Thanksgiving family poker tournament. It was fantastic!

Q: What is the most memorable party or gathering you've attended or hosted? Why?

A: I used to host an epic Oscar party. I love that party since the decorations could be way over the top.

Mara’s not afraid to go big. Oscars night gave her the chance to get creative and theatrical with decor.

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

A: I use a lot of Caspari paper products because they look really nice. I always have great hand soap in the guest bathroom - le labo and Jo Malone are favorites. Juliska serving pieces are beautiful and durable. Inspiro Tequila mixed with pure Twisted Alchemy  juices are perfection.

From tabletop to bar cart, Mara blends beauty and functionality in her hosting staples.

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Follow @inspirotequila on Instagram or visit Inspiro Tequila to learn more about her female-founded brand. Feeling inspired to host your own gathering? Sign up for a free Partytrick account to explore curated templates, expert tips, and everything you need to bring your next event to life.

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