I wasn’t born a sparkling hostess. No one is. Hosting events was bred into me over a childhood filled with loved ones gathering at my parents’ home. Halloween and Christmas Eve were punctuated with friends stopping by to celebrate over a large pot of my mom’s famous homemade soup. Summers were filled with sunny afternoons of my brother’s and my friends splashing in the pool as my dad barbequed on the grill and my mom boiled corn on the cob. On Fridays we made homemade pizza and watched movies. Whether it was just the four of us sitting around the table or fifty people scattered about the house there was a sense of fullness brought about by food, drink, laughter, and love.

Throughout my life my mother has instilled in me a sense of generous hospitality. She cooks and serves as lavishly as she loves. If I walked into her house right this minute unannounced there would be a plate of snacks in front of me and a glass of wine in my hand before I could settle into a chair. If you’re invited over for a “small casual” family birthday dinner there will be party favors and decorations, trays of appetizers and multiple courses at the meal.

As I grew into a hostess in my own right I carried these traditions with me. I embraced my mother’s welcoming attitude towards company and her festive attitude towards life. I think a girls night in or an intimate dinner at home can be just as much of an affair to remember as hosting thirty people for Thanksgiving or seventy people for a garden party. I believe in celebrating occasions and making even the smallest event a special one. I relish weaving a theme through the food, drinks, décor, and entertainment of a party.

Here at the Sparkling Hostess blog I’ll share information about parties and holidays I’ve hosted, events & creations by A Sparkling Affair and share tips & tricks for planning everything from the smallest to the grandest gathering. Grab your champagne flute, follow along and remember no matter what you’re doing…always bring your sparkle.