Pick a Theme That Flows

Have you ever wondered how interior design and event planning actually overlap? Let me paint the picture. Imagine finally stepping into your long-awaited dream home as guests start to flow in. Everywhere they look the foyer, kitchen, living room, staircase there are stunning details pulling their attention. Together, these layers create the perfect backdrop for your intimate gathering. With Thanksgiving around the corner, yes, food will always be the star of the show, but the presentation starts long before the food hits the table. Think art displayed behind your tablescape, decorative stands adding height to your counters, and thoughtful placement of accessories that bring everything together. It’s those little details that transform your home into both an experience and an event.

Seating + Flow

To plan the perfect intimate gathering, it’s all about the little details most people wouldn’t even think of. Start by asking yourself: How many guests will be in attendance? Where will they sit? From the moment they walk in, to mingling with a complimentary drink, to finally grabbing food and settling down, what will their signature experience feel like? Now, of course, you’re not setting up a full ballroom in your living room (unless you want to??). But seating is key. Accent chairs are always a stylish yet comfortable option to blend with your existing décor. Check out a few options to consider for your home. If you’ve already perfected your living room layout and don’t want to add permanent pieces, folding chairs or rentals from a local party supply company can save the day without sacrificing aesthetics. And don’t overlook cocktail tables, they’re perfect for giving guests a place to rest their drinks and strike up conversations. It’s these thoughtful touches that turn a simple get-together into something unforgettable. Another strong contender are highboys with fine linen.

As you plan your layout, don’t forget about conversation starters. A great centerpiece has a way of instantly drawing people in. Whether it’s placed on a cocktail table, highboy, or countertop, guests’ eyes naturally gravitate toward the middle. A good rule of thumb when choosing centerpieces is to keep them low enough for conversation or tall enough to be out of the way. And while the creative possibilities are endless, the most important thing is to stay authentic to your own style. Think clusters of vases paired with floating candles, lush floral arrangements (faux or fresh), or a mix of tall candles intertwined with greenery. A well-chosen centerpiece doesn’t just decorate, it sparks connection. Trust me, your guests will be talking about your showstopper display long after the night ends.

Food & Drink Simplified

Now let’s talk about the real MVP of any gathering food and drinks. Because let’s be honest, people may forget your fancy throw pillows, but they’ll definitely remember if you ran out of wine. Keep it simple with catering or small bites displayed on chic serving trays that double as décor. A sleek bar cart stocked with essentials instantly elevates the vibe (and makes guests feel like they’re at a boutique hotel rather than your living room). Don’t forget glassware, having a mix of wine glasses, tumblers, and cocktail options makes everything feel intentional without being over the top. The goal here isn’t to stress yourself out, but to create a setup that’s easy to manage and stylish enough to keep the compliments flowing along with the drinks. Of course, you do not want to ruin your fine china, you can subsititue for rental companies or luxury acrylic glassware.

When it comes to drinks, choosing a signature cocktail can take your gathering from fun to unforgettable. Think of it as setting the tone for the evening in a glass. Start with a favorite classic like a lemon drop, espresso martini, or French 75 but add your own twist, whether it’s a seasonal flavor or a splash of something unexpected. Champagne more your style? Dress it up with a sprinkle of edible glitter for instant celebration vibes. And don’t forget the presentation, Etsy has plenty of chic signage options you can customize to fit your theme. A well-named, beautifully displayed signature drink is more than a sip.

My go-to Event Checklist

• Pick a Theme & Mood – Cozy, glam, seasonal, or casual. Gather inspiration on Pinterest.
• Set Budget & Guest List – Know your spend limit and who’s coming.
• Choose Date & Venue – Home, rented space, or outdoors (with backup plan).
• Send Invites – Digital or printed, depending on YOU.
• Shop for Details – Centerpieces, décor, seating, barware, trays.
• Plan Menu & Drinks – Food, signature cocktail or mocktail, plus non-alcoholic options.
• Prep the Space – Clean, style, set up bar, food stations, and seating.
• Day-of Touches – Flowers, candles, signage, drinks chilled, music ready.
• Enjoy – Relax, mingle, and soak in the vibes, you set the vibe!

Don’t Forget YOU

Hosting doesn’t have to feel like running a marathon. With the right mindset and the right tools, you can create an event that feels polished and fun, without the behind-the-scenes panic. Think of it as setting the stage for memories, not chasing perfection. As the host, you’ll notice every little hiccup, but trust me no one else will. Give yourself some grace, take a moment to breathe, and pat yourself on the back. YOU did it!

Do you want your next event and your everyday spaces to feel seamless in style? I’m now offering combined interior + event planning packages. Or, if you’re just curious, reach out and let’s chat about our interior design and event planning services to bring your vision to life. Feel free to inquire about the accent chairs or additional options.

Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes peeks, mood board mashups, how-to’s and much more coming very soon.

Thanks for reading my blog! Can’t wait to grow with you all!

xoxo,

Gabrielle Simone <3