UMM Yes, that’s right, we are having a par – tay!! I am so excited to celebrate the launch of Melissa Micheals from The Inspired Room blog newest BOOK! Melissa is hosting a launch party today for her new book, and there is an amazing GIVEAWAY at the end of the post, so be sure to stick around. And when I say AMAZING, trust me I’m drooling over all the goodies. Each hostess is giving away a an amazing set, and you can enter each one. That means there are FIVE chances to win!
Melissa is one of my all time favorite bloggers. Her words resonate so much with me, and her passion for home, family and faith speak straight to my core. Honestly, I feel like she’s the BIG sister I look up to in the design field, not just because she has a beautiful home (which she does), and not because I’m the oldest of 5 girls (meaning I have no big sis), but because her heart for home and serving those who enter it, are the way God intended it to be. And it is so inspiring to me, and encourages me in my own home.
I’re read Melissa’s other books, and have gleaned so much from them. Her sixth book, now available, Simple Gatherings will inspire you to get together! Whatever your reason for inviting others into your home, this book is full of tips and ideas to help you add those special touches along with tackling any fears you have about entertaining, including the “my house isn’t clean enough” excuse.
Here is brief overview of what you will find:
WHAT IS SIMPLE GATHERINGS BOOK ABOUT:
Simple Gatherings encourages readers by offering simple ways to make a gathering a special memorable experience for everyone (including the hostess!).
Guests will tend to remember these four elements of a gathering:
- the feast
- the conversation
- the atmosphere
- the special touches.
The book isn’t at all about striving for perfection in hosting a gathering, it is about ways to create memorable connections with people!
In the book you will find simple encouragement and tips for creating a warm and welcoming home, party decorating, cleaning, setting up creative tables, themes and reasons to gather as well as helpful tips for hosting and preparing the event.
The book features a few highlighted gatherings as examples with tips and ideas as well.
I remember stressing myself out to no end as a new wife, trying to make every dinner party, every get-together PERFECT. It was ugly friends. Something that I will always remember, but as a time where I needed to learn a valuable lesson. That the people sitting at the table were more important than a picture perfect place setting. That by not allowing my husband to help, meant burn-out for me, and subliminally telling my husband “I don’t need you”. Oh the list goes on and on, but thankfully I learned from my mistakes. That things don’t have to be perfectly in place to be enjoyable. And sometimes the simplest of gatherings are the most fulfilling.
To celebrate the Launch of Simple Gatherings, Melissa has put together some fabulous gift sets that any hostess will enjoy! By entering the giveaway rafflecopter on my blog you will have the chance to win a beautiful package that includes one of each of the following:
Each hostess is offering their own unique, beautiful prize, and you can enter at each blog, giving you the chance to potentially win up to FIVE! I’ve included each of their links below for you to visit, and of course your chance to enter my unique Simple Gatherings Launch Party gift set is below.
Melissa Michaels – The Inspired Room (start here)
Emily Lex – Jones Design Studio
Beth Hunter – Homes Stories A to Z
Sandy Coughlin – Reluctant Entertainer
Bre Doucette – Rooms For Rent – {That’s ME}
Jen Schmidt – Balancing Beauty & Bedlam
One of the fun parts about this GIVEAWAY is taking the quiz to help you discover which kind of hostess you are! I took the quiz and think you will find it comical my results were “The Perfectionist”. Here is what it said :
You naturally consider the finer details of entertaining and often outdo yourself.
Your parties are likely wonderful and your guests enjoy them. You may have high standards and fine taste, yet all of your gatherings don’t have to be elaborate or perfect to be special. Simple gatherings allow you to express your great style and taste while still connecting with your guests in relaxed and meaningful ways. You appreciate creative but manageable ideas to set the stage for a special gathering while shortening your to-do list.
Even though those early days of striving for perfection at every dinner party are long gone, I still strive to execute meaningful details for my gatherings, but not at the cost of my husband or family – the most important people at my table!
You can take your own hostess quiz HERE, and I would love to hear what result you got!
Stay in touch!
Instagram / Pinterest / Facebook
Suzie says
I love any gathering with friends and family. Always fun to get together.
Matti Gresham says
Love all of these prizes!
Vickie says
My favorite gatherings to host and /or attend are casual, relaxed and fun. Which perfectly explains my style..the social butterfly.
I love to host parties..big and small..and, I don’t need a particular reason.
We entertain in Florida year round..love to host evening al Fresca.
Anything, from BBQ, formal under the stars, new sores spread out on picnic table with seafood boils..beach blanket smores to cheese boards are ok with me.
I want all to have fun, love the food..me too.
My favorite type is the next one! I am ready.
Vickie says
That should read s’mores..haha..geesh.
Bethany says
I love to host parties for my sweet kiddos’ birthdays and also seasonal parties. Thanks for the giveaway! 🙂
aaron reck says
Party celebrating achievements. I think they are the best. I love to come together with people and just be joyous about what someone did.
Judy says
Thank you for the giveaway.
Meghan says
Casual gatherings with just the right amount of decor and style,
Lara says
Can’t wait to read this!
Jerin says
Love hosting! I am easy breezy 🙂
Jillian Too says
I love holiday parties because the focus is not on one person.
Linda says
Easy breezy …can always get new ideas…
LESLIE Smith says
I need to learn how not to be a perfectionist when hosting. Beautiful prizes!
Amie says
I love small, intimate, casual gatherings!
Anne says
I love to host dinner parties during the summer/fall.
Sandy says
After years of entertaining I still get nervous, would love to be an easy breezy entainer!
Melanie Herman says
Love this!
Kris Dillard says
Can’t wait to get the book! We have a new home & seem to be the new gathering spot for our friends!
Shari says
Big, small, love them all. Keeping my eyes on the heart of the matter helps it be a Simple just-right Gathering.
Anne B says
Easy Breezy definitely describes me. I like to host but have everyone bring something so the whole thing doesn’t fall to me.
KathyG says
How fun is this gathering! My husband and I love to entertain in a casual way. Lots of good food, easy to serve and plenty of room to mingle. It’s good when people leave with smiles and hugs!
Diane | An Extraordinary Day says
My favorite gatherings to host were held in my home to honor those who served in our ministry. I love making everything special so that they know how valued they are… not just for their service… but because of who they are and their uniqueness. I admit to going all out in the preparation. But, once the food is put out, I love spending time with my guests and make it super easy for them to kick back and relax. There’s a wonderful synergy at these gatherings that take me from tired to energized.
Courtney F says
I like (though seldom get to attend) a sit-down dinner party with good conversation and good wine. Someday I’d love to rent a private party room at a good restaurant so that I could have that experience without needing to cook or clean up!
amy guillaume linderman says
i love anniversary parties the best! so sentimental
Shannon says
I’m a Perfectionist too! I spend a lot of time thinking through all the details to make sure they are just right!
Linda F says
I wish I loved hosting more…maybe the book will help 🙂
Dale says
I really enjoy a smaller gathering so everyone visits and shares conversation together. Second to that – I enjoy a larger gathering to celebrate someone’s special moment. Thank you for the beautiful giveaway!
Ivory says
I am still fairly a young/older woman, who loved having parties/get togethers, but now that I often have very low energy levels, I am not able to have them. I miss it greatly. I’ve learned not to put today of for tomorrow on my fair days. I wish I could say on my good days, but I know longer have those. Your book sounds like its a good, fun, helpful one. Thanks for sharing. And good luck with your new book.
Anna says
I love any casual gathering with close friends and family!
Jan says
easy breezy
Gayle says
My sister and my daughter host great parties, and I just enjoy going to them. I’m a nervous nester and don’t host parties myself.
Jenelle says
My favorite type of event to host is my children’s birthday parties. So fun and whimsical.
Trudi McDaniel says
Looking forward to reading this one. It’s on my birthday list!
Diane says
Perhaps because I’m a perfectionist, as the quiz indicates, my favorite gathering to host is a playdate. It is so casual that there is very little pressure to live up to. I get to make tea or coffee for my mom friend and just chat while the kids play.
Palak says
Perfectionist
Darla says
Excited to read this book!
Margie says
Love following Melissa’s blog! She is so inspiring
Jo @ Let's Face the Music says
I love hosting parties with a theme. I like to take that theme to the nth degree. The most unlikely people will go along with a party theme like the New Year’s Eve I “encouraged” ladies to wear tiaras. Everybody came with one except one person. I told her I have an extra if she wanted it. She promptly sent her husband out to the car to get hers. Jo @ Let’s Face the Music
Lori H says
My favorite gathering is small and relaxed! Not a lot of small talk..
Terri says
My favorite type of party is spontaneous with a few friends playing games and eating snacks.
Judy says
Dinner parties and Christmas are fun to host
Janneke says
I often have so many ideas of things I’d like to host a gathering for but usually stop myself because I think someone else can do it better, has a bigger place, is more fun, etc. I tend to show up to other people’s events instead! But these aren’t beautiful giveaways, thanks for the chance to be inspired to host. 🙂
Babette Thurston says
My favorite gathering is with my close family and friends during the holidays. I love to cook for them, decorate, and just show them how much I love them with music, good food, and conversation.
Alicen says
My kids birthday parties!!
beck says
perfectionism can be good AND bad for sure:)
love your site
Katie says
I like attending casual, laid back events, like an outdoor BBQ.
Vickie says
Congrats on your book!! And thank you for the thoughtful giveaway!
Sally Christiansen says
I love casual gatherings with friends.
Charissa Steyn says
Favorite type of gathering to host…a casual brunch with friends, or an artsy evening with girlfriends!
Mary says
My favorite is having Family and close friends over! Would love to win!
Anita Jackson says
I love Oyster Shucking picnics!
Dee Parker says
I like casual dinner parties where I can load the table with food and we can all gather round and spend the evening at the table talking.
Kim V says
I love Melissa’s books!
HB says
Can’t wait to get the book
Steva says
I love hosting all kinds of gatherings in my home-family celebrations, holidays, casual gatherings with friends and church gatherings.
Lori says
My favorite type of gathering is small, intimate, and relaxing. One where the host is so busy that she/he doesn’t have time to interact with the attendees.
Julie Mitchell says
I love attending afternoon teas! It’s been years since I’ve been to one, but they are so much fun!
Jenelle says
Perfectionist. This book looks refreshingly helpful!!
Kayley says
I like attending small gatherings with mostly people I know, but some new faces.
Tina says
I love to host a Christmas open house!
Gail TF says
A few friends , simple snacks, fun conversation
kerri says
I’d love to win!
Meg says
We have a St. Patrick’s Day party every year, which is always a lot of fun!
Denise says
I mostly host family gatherings…anything from simple sandwiches and appetizers to complete meals. The ‘party’ is almost always at my house. It can be stressful, but I enjoy doing it!
Rebekah says
Also a perfectionist…not really sure how that happened!
Car says
I’m enjoying the exposure to new blogs, and the chance to win such nice prizes!
Gina says
I love casual neighborhood pizza parties!
StephaNie Ruyter says
I love “make your own pizza on the grill” nights!
Beth says
So glad I found this blog! Thanks for the referral Jones Design Company! As a perfectionist, its sometimes hard to enjoy your own party but I’m working on it!
Kristin Smith says
I love hosting Thanksgiving. All the yummy foods, family gathers together!
Faith says
I love to host or attend parties with close friends and yummy food!!!
Rebecca says
I’m a nervous nester. Whether it’s hosting or attending anything larger than just one or two couples is definitely out of my comfort zone. Plus I feel you really get more personal and truly enjoy the company when it’s a small intimate gathering over a large group.
Deb says
I am easy breezy. I like to host or attend small gatherings best of all
Lori Bolick says
I am a Nervous Nester – I need to get my nerves under control and entertain more. Maybe this book will help!
Terri says
Me too — I got perfectionist.
ReneE says
What a wonderful giveaway! Thanks so much!
Karina says
Nervous Nester. It sounds like me.
Tracy L says
Easy Breezy was what my test showed. Honestly I have to fake it till I make it many times! Love to host laid back cook out and cornhole parties. Fun to have a water balloon surprise and a cute take home gift.
Niki says
We just purchased our first home and have had two successful parties and one dinner. So far I’ve loved every minute of it. It’s been so great to get everyone together. I have a very informal style and don’t get stressed about the planning or everything turning out perfectly. Also, it helps that there’s a Stop & Shop a stone’s throw away from our house so it comes in handy if we’re missing anything or running out.
Marla says
Im a “Social Butterfly”!
Robin at Recess says
Easy Breezy, lemon squeezy!
Amanda says
I love that cake stand!
Teddee Grace says
Looks like a beautiful and useful book…especially to a “Perfectionist”!
Linda Spangler says
I love having individual couples over for a good meal and getting to really know them. I’m a Nervous Nester and realize large gatherings are uncomfortable for me. Love a great party at someone else’s house though where I can help out and just enjoy!
Karen Jeanne says
My favorite type of gathering to attend is one where everyone feels comfortable and at home, & small groups gather here & there to chat, play music, play outside, or watch a game on TV together. Very low-key & comfortable. Unfortunately I have not perfected that kind of homey atmosphere or familiar group camraderie… but maybe someday. Thanks for the giveaway!
angie says
I like “make your own” events. Tacos, burgers, etc.
Teri says
This Perfectionist really enjoys going to parties rather than hosting them. A casual (outdoor) dinner with a small group is probably my favorite party. thanks for the giveaway!
Anita says
I’m a perfectionist too! Love this blog post!
Angela says
My favorite party is with close friends where we all kick back and relax and no one watches the time fly! 🙂
Kate says
What a beautiful site. Thanks for a chance to win.
Amanda Y says
I got Perfectionist for my hostess style. I was not surprised by the result, but would like to work on being more relaxed for entertaining so I can actually sit back and enjoy some of the fruits of my labor.
Jess says
Me too, Amanda!
Lindsay says
Social Butterfly
Sara says
I’m partial to my kids birthday parties. I love to see how their faces light up!
Claire says
I love to host and attend super casual gatherings with our close group of friends who are all families with young children. It’s chaotic and verrrry laid back, but oh so special to get that time together, watch our kiddos play and make memories together!
rachel says
Easy Breezy! Love the items in your giveaway!!!
Erin P says
My husband jokes that I’m the only one he knows that actually likes going to weddings. ? Can’t help it, the love, friends & family…buzzed dancing! ? Thanks and cant wait to read the book!
christina purvis says
I’m a nervous nester. I like to host parties like baby showers or bridal showers because the focus is on some one else.
kay says
I’m an easy breezy hostess!
Anne says
I’m the social butterfly, but I lean toward perfectionist, I know! I am really enjoying visiting some new-to-me blogs!
Brenda says
Love hosting parties, but yup love everything to go great!
Claire says
I love small parties.birthday and holidays especially.
Nicole says
My favorite type of event to host is a small dinner party full of friends, laughter, & wine as we watch our little ones play outdoors under the stars!
Danielle says
Ugh, total perfectionist! Not surprising, and it’s something I need to work on. I love to-do lists and I’m exhausted before my guests even arrive. I stopped hosting last year for that reason and others. Maybe this will inspire me to ease back into it.
jan says
I like simple/casual entertaining. It easier to relax and enjoy the company.
Leah says
Hmm, I would say I like to host Christmas parties because Christmas is my favorite. But, as for attending, I have been really enjoying anything having to do with weddings, either showers or the actual wedding :). I don’t dress up very often, so these parties let me get all fancy!
DEbra says
I love Melissa’s style. She I USC one of my go to blogs.
H says
Nervous nester – A movie night is my fave gathering to host, and baby showers are my fave parties to attend!
Kara J McGill-Meeks says
As a perfectionist….I would love to serve some items on or with your beautiful gift items.
Kathy says
Easy Breezy is my style but I am really a perfectionist that likes to make it look like it was easy breezy! Love your blog!
Julie S says
Gotta get this book!
Jana says
Easy breezy…party on the patio anytime! 😉 Love Melissa’s style! Thanks for the giveaway!
Holly says
Nervous nester here. I think I need this book!
Ashley says
I got easy breezy, which seems to fit me pretty well!
VANESSA says
I love subtle themed parties that one can also subtly dress to the theme. I like dressing up, but some are tacky so I love when they are subtle or sophisticated.
Melissa Richman says
I love the idea of this book.
Deb Wostmann says
Ah yes, Perfectionist I am. I love to host small gatherings to sit down dinners for 35, but I must have a plan and a theme to help me stay organized.
Beth B. says
I love to gather with friends or family for good food and games. Lots of laughter!
Lisa H. says
I’m a social butterfly, but I’d really like to become easy breezy! I can’t wait to get my hands on this book!
Susan says
Looking forward to reading the new book.
Jamie says
I am working to not be the perfectionist. I do love having friends and family over for casual gatherings. I love feeding people yummy food : )
Patricia says
Love Melissa’s books. Can’t wait to get this new one.
jUlie D says
I think I like Christmas dinner the best. We usually just host my father-in-law, but we still go all out with a pretty table setting and big dinner with all of the fixings (including homemade dinner rolls). It’s laid-back and low-key, despite all of the prep.
Kellie says
This looks like such a great book! I must get it!!
Donita Vogt says
Perfectionist learning to be more Easy Breezy!
Judy says
Easy breezy!
Carla H says
Would love to own any of these!
Carla H says
Everything is so pretty!! Love them!
LORI says
I’m easy breezy, but maybe with a bit of perfectionism. Thanks for the opportunity to win these beautiful gifts!
julie says
Looks like a wonderful book!
Lindsay says
Simple gatherings with family and friends.
Dana says
Fun book topic 🙂
Dawn says
Thanks for being part of the Launch Party for Simple Gatherings! I really like what you had to say about the book! I am really looking forward to reading it!
Lisa says
I’m a Nervous Nester and an Introvert so small gatherings of family and close friends are much more enjoyable for me.
Theresa says
Love the bowl…it’s just beautiful!
Thea says
I’m a “perfectionist” but I’m working on relaxing what’s not as important and focusing on the people!
Hannah Beth Reid says
As a mom of young children, this may seem odd, but I enjoy getting together with other families with young children. We have a lot in common and the children enjoy playing together.
Bre says
Totally not odd at all. I think when you know your kids are enjoying the get together as much as you are, and having people at the same stage of life you are in, who aren’t put off by a spill, or a toddler outburst, makes getting together enjoyable and relaxing, because you don’t have to keep everyone on a tight leash of best behavior, lol! So great!
Tiffany says
I got Nervous Nester and this book seems perfect for me to learn to be more relaxed about hosting.
Virginia says
As a perfectionist I am hoping to infuse my hosting skills with simple and creative tips. Everyone appreciates a relaxed hostess.
Stacey says
Thanks for being a part of this giveaway – what fun!
Ashley says
I love that cake stand! Can’t wait to read the book.
Sherri y says
I love hosting events…birthday parties, ladies brunch, etc
Heather says
Sports based! Game day gatherings are my favorite. Easy Breezy.
Susan Smith says
Nervous nester. Ugh. Need to change.
Birgit says
Me too – never thiught of that.
Jennifer says
I love small, intimate gatherings where I really get to know people. And good food and drinks is a plus!
Nadia says
I’m a perfectionist who has a soft spot for kid parties.
Deborah says
I love hosting teaparties and small gatherings with friends!
Erin says
Nervous Nester. I prefer to host and attend smaller, more intimate gatherings.
Ann says
The quiz got me perfectly right. I’m an easy breezy sort of gal. I enjoy putting together the big shindigs like showers every once in a while, finding a few special touches and making a great cake for my daughters’ birthdays every year, and aside from a few details I really cared about, kind of hated planning my wedding.
I love hosting and attending the informal, spontaneous, come over for supper and let the kids play wildly and with little supervision while the adults catch up sort of gatherings. And I feel extremely blessed that our friends are similarly-minded. No comparing. No feeling guilty that my house or my food isn’t up to snuff. No trying to outdo each other. Just friends, food and fellowship.
Amy says
I am a social butterfly! I just love books like this that help make parties more organized!
Staci says
What a beautiful wooden bowl! I need one.
Linda R says
I used to be a perfectionist but that has gone by the wayside! As long as I have enough food and drinks and the bathrooms are clean, come on in!
Jen says
Thanks for hosting!
HeatherB says
I’ve been waiting for this day! Can’t wait for my book to arrive! (the quiz was pretty fun, too 🙂
Melissa W says
I’m so where between perfectionist and social butterfly, working on new home to make it more hospitable!
Lori G says
After years of perfectionist tendencies I burnt out and couldn’t even get a simple dinner together. Then my Mom told me people remember how they felt more than anything else. I’m trying to create simple, comfortable experiences now.
Arlene says
Great party. Thanks
Nancy Heab says
Going to have to get my hands on this book!
Janice says
I love Christmas parties!
Andrea says
I love hosting parties for family and friends!
Heather says
My favorite type of gathering to host and attend is an easy throw together, no frills, come as you are smallish party.
Shanna says
Beautiful gift! I’m a perfectionist and could use some tips for making hosting parties more relaxing!
Tammy says
I can’t wait to read this book!
Ella Marie says
I love hosting any kind of party, but it’s especially nice if we can be outside and the kids can play. There’s something so much more casual and fun about parties outdoors!
Jen Van Hooser says
I love hosting any and all gathering! They all let me exercise my creativity!
Karen says
Would love to grow in hospitality!
Linda says
I’m The Perfectionist….who would like to figure out how not to be that! Can’t wait for Melissa’s book!!
Kelley says
I love to attend anything with people I know well. #extrovertedintrovert
Emily says
Love the planning out special details of a gathering but enjoy the people gathered the most!
Lynne says
Beautiful giveaway!
Amy says
I love to celebrate birthdays!
Heather says
I’m a Social Butterfly (who tends towards perfectionism). This book might help that tendency!
Rachelle says
This is so much fun!!
Lizzy says
My favorite gatherings are the simple, regular ones that don’t require much planning. I host a monthly craft group and we take turns running the craft. Then we all bring a treat. Super simple and super fun.
Billie says
Of course, I came out The Perfectionist as expected! But it’s something I’m working on when it comes to gatherings… As a mom of two littles under the age of three, I’d never have people over these days if I still expected perfection — LOL!!
Ashley says
I love football parties! I live in Alabama and graduated from Auburn- our favorite thing is to have friends over to watch a game, eat yummy dips, and root on our tigers! It’s a lot harder with a herd of preschoolers though!
Susan L Lindeman says
Favorite gatherings I like to attend are casual, comfortable clothing not dressy, friendly people. Sitting around a fire pit enjoying a drink with friends!
Diana says
I love to host small groups of friends!
Jillian says
I love a small, intimate gathering of friends where the pressure is off!
Michelle F says
I am a nervous nester even guests have a great time.
Leanna says
Any gathering with my family 🙂
Corinna Henderson says
My favorite used to be beer pong, haha. But nowadays I like to have frienda over for movie night. Having some fancy accessories could encourage more variety in the gatherings!
Heidi says
I love any gathering where I can connect with people in a meaningful way–I love good conversation, simple yummy food, and a relaxed atmosphere.
amanda says
Oh I like attending anything casual, especially if I already know a few people.
Leslie MP says
I love all gatherings, but I think baby showers are my particular favorites. I love babies and all things baby.
MELissa says
I’m easy breezy! Hanks for sharing.
Anne says
sooo surprised my style turned out to be “perfectionist”! i have much to learn.
Angela says
Can’t wait to read this book!
Bonnie says
How fun! I am no good at parties (I got the nervous Nester ?)… but I love going to them!!
Diane says
I’m a Perfectionist as well. I dread hosting parties unless I have at least 6 weeks notice.
Brittney Rust says
I got easy breezy- but after reading your description I definitely have strong perfectionist tendencies! It’s hard to say if this is a result of my work as a caterer and pastry chef, more likely my love of a beautiful party led me to this career choice. I just savor every beautiful wedding and party I get to help create.
Susan Hatcher says
I like a casual potluck outdoor gathering where the men are grilling and everyone brings a dish.
Abby says
My favorite type of gathering is anything with FOOD. Haha. But some of the most memorable gatherings I’ve had have been around a fire. There is something very casual and special about a fire outside under the stars. I could sit around one for hours just talking with friends.
carol clark says
i love baby showers
Greta Wesslen says
I’m a nervous Nester! I can’t wait to read this book to help give me some confidence with hosting more.
debra says
we love hosting! beautiful book. beautiful give away items.
Jessica Sheward says
Easy Breezy, huh. More like Stressy Bessie!
Donna G says
I really enjoy my Bunco meetings. The formula is fairly basic, but the anticipation for the main meal and dessert is half the fun!
Callie says
I am a perfectionist! This book looks great!
andrea says
This is Great!
Tina says
It looks like a really neat book with lots of great ideas.
Monica says
I love hosting causal gatherings such as coffee and dessert or backyard barbecues. There is less preparation and more time can be spent with our guests.
Heather Gehman says
Easy breezy… hahah maybe I am sometimes?!
Hanna says
One that is super low key
Janae says
My favorite way to host is casual elegant. (No shoes though!) I love to host ladies of diverse ages for lunch. Last fall I hosted a “soup potluck”with one group of ladies, and it was so fun! Each attendee brought a small pot of soup, and I provided lettuce salad, fresh fruit fruit, appetizers, and dessert. I had stacks of tea cups down the center of the table (in place of soup bowls) so we could all try the various soups. It was so much fun and I think we all came away with some new soup recipes for the winter! Yum:)
Kara Cox says
Fun idea for a book launch! I hope to get better at simply hosting parties in our new house! Maybe putting some systems in place that make it so much easier to spontaneously party!
Becca Eliasen says
This was really encouraging to be ok with leaning into my entertaining style and grow in that, without trying to be someone I’m not. 🙂
jessica says
Yup, totally a perfectionist – really need to learn to chill out and just enjoy the company!
Ana Crawford says
Recovering perfectionist here!
Kim says
I love a reason to gather my friends and family – and sometimes we don’t even need a reason ;o) My hostess style was Social Butterfly and that’s no surprise ;o) ox Kim
Beth says
I love attending or hosting smaller dinners or get-togethers, where people can have wonderful conversation and be present with each other.
Stacie says
I just love filling our home with people for any reason. This is a fun giveaway. The book looks really neat.
ALicia says
Bre I love receiving you blogposts in my inbox – they are always so beautiful yet simple! I am a social butterfly and enjoy all types of gatherings!!
Bre says
Ohh thank you so much Alicia!! I love it!!
Jessica Brubaker says
Fellow Perfectionist trying to place priority on people! 🙂
Sean says
For me, it would have to be small, intimate dinner parties. I love sitting beside people I don’t know and getting to meet an future friend.
Rana says
Looks like a fun & useful book!
April says
Social Butterfly here! I was a military spouse for 30 years and really enjoy holding gathering in my home. I keep on hand basic ingredients for my favorite recipes so I am able to host at a moment’s notice. White serving pieces work for all occasions with basic decor pieces and decorations. Simple is best as it is all about socializing for me! Thanks for the opportunity to add these beautiful pieces to my home!
Katie M says
I love hosting, but it is admittedly stressful.
Amanda says
I love hosting birthday parties for my kids and family, baby showers, engagement parties, housewarming parties, and even just a girlfriend get together potluck.
Francesca Gunn says
Am I the only one who loves to PLAN the party, but not actually attend?
Bre says
HA!! I feel the same way lol!! I love all the details, but a party for me is curly up in my favorite chair with my favorite blanket, all by myself! LOL!! HA HA 🙂
Gina says
Love attending and hosting with a causal feel. Throw out some nibbles and drinks and you’re done. I don’t worry about dusting/vacuuming everything for a last minute get together. I don’t care about my friend’s home being perfect so hope they feel the same about mine…..I just want to spend time together. Everybody is so busy these days last minute drop-ins are the only way to see each other.
Valzora says
I love the planning of a party but the execution often wears me down. Scaling back on the plans would help me a lot. I’m sure you’re not surprised to learn I’m Nervous Nelly from the quiz!
Becca P says
I’m definitely a perfectionist! Lists and boards and check boxes…
Jennie says
I love hosting Sunday Football parties!
Debbie - Mountain Mama says
I do like to make sure my house is clean, the candles are lit, and the music playing…..and then I can relax and enjoy my guests and a good meal. I love to host dinner parties, and I adore seeing my guests relaxed and laughing around my dining room table in my little mountain top home!
Jamie lockard says
My favorite/perfect gatherings are the very casual ones with lots of food varieties served via a buffet style around the kitchen island and hearth room. Like the ‘grazing’ and sampling aspect without fussiness of big table presentations.
Andi says
I think over time I have transitioned from perfectionist to easy breezy 🙂 It’s just like you said, it’s way more fun if you aren’t worrying about everything and trying to do everything yourself!
Debra says
I’m easy breezy!
Stafford says
Favorite types of gatherings are where there is a variety of foods, music and people!
Ashley says
I love hosting outdoor gatherings most. My heart is to share our space freely and often…I do get a little hung up on the idea/illusion of perfection. Working on it.
Alina says
I love attending parties where there is a mixture of prebought and DIY decor along with a boisterous group of people.
kari says
Such a fun book and great prizes!
Shari Schempp says
I love to host a casual gathering of friends and family. I like everything to look nice, and to have great food, but the conversation and atmosphere are what makes it special.
Katie says
I love intimate gatherings with close friends the best!
Rya says
I have 4 birthdays and 2 holiday celebrations between now and January 7 and can use all the tips available! Thank you.
Tamara says
I cannot wait to read this book. I am excited to refine my entertaining skills and make all feel welcome.
Lorrie says
I most enjoy smaller gatherings around the dinner table, and I enjoy trying out new recipes and decorating a pretty table. But I also like casual and loud family gatherings.
Amanda Wood says
I love easy-going parties where good friends get together to enjoy eachother’s company, eat some good food, and just have a fun night. Nothing elaborate, but plenty for everyone.
Karen says
I’m a perfectionist who desperately needs to learn simplicity in hospitality :)!
Marissa says
I feel ya there, Karen! Albeit stressful, I do find my instincts lend to a perfect party – though I’d likely be able to enjoy my time with friends more if I didn’t think about all the details/refills/food. 🙂 We’ll get there!
Shannon says
I just ended a lifetime of hosting formal events in a military life. Now learning to just be neighborly casual in gatherings. It is a transitional season of learning to host gatherings…trying to learn to worry less about etiquette and more about the people and sharing food, time, conversation, and what really matters. Thank you for your lovely blog and sharing in the fun today.
Nat says
Baby showers are so fun! I loved hosting dinner parties, especially the ones just for adults, because I wouldn’t have to think about 2 different menus (kid-friendly and then a grown-up one). Haven’t hosted a party of any kind for a while. Been missing it.
amanda whitley says
i love pool parties and cook outs. great food and very relaxed.
Kirstin Troyer says
This book looks amazing. I love hosting a casual gathering, but I’ve always loved hosting graduation parties, anniversary parties where I can include photos, slideshows, etc.
Leigh says
I love hosting friends over for coffee and treats. It’s easy going and not much pressure for me. Plus the atmosphere seems so much more casual.
Sue says
I love a room full of people laughing and having great conversations in our home. There is nothing like it.
Heather says
Can’t wait to read this book!
Jan says
Love Melissa’s simply beautiful books!
Angela says
So glad you ladies are supporting one another! That is a blessing to all I am sure!
Donnamae says
Actually, my favorite gathering is a potluck! No pressure, and lots of good food and conversation! 😉
Melissa Michaels says
Bre, thank you for your warm hospitality! You make us feel so welcome here. Thank you for sharing the book and your willingness to jump in and host this giveaway stop. It’s fun to have friends celebrating this book launch with me! So grateful for you, friend. XOXO
Bre says
Thank you so much Melissa! What a joy today has been!!
Kriss says
I was just like you in my beginning years 🙂 My family often dreaded parties because of the way I was during prep….NOT the goal 🙂 Its about the experience and memories 🙂
Jennifer K. says
We love hosting Thanksgiving at our house. It’s the one time a year where our families from near and far can be together.
Debra Schramm says
I love hosting friends for dinner.
Missy G. says
Holiday gatherings with family are my favorite. Although, I am rarely the hostess!
Tonya says
I love casual gatherings so I can focus on friends and family instead of worrying if everything matches! I would rather visit than wash china.
Allie says
I love hosting dinner parties or big family meals like Thanksgiving. I love to cook, but it’s also fun to play with seating to see new friendships form!
Becky Christiansen says
I’m a perfectionist who is learning to lighten up. I love casual get-togethers with great food!
Allison says
I love a laid-back gathering, especially when it’s great weather and can be outside, with adult beverages and yummy appetizers.
Heather says
I like to plan and host family parties the most. I am a perfectionist and it definitely shows in my planning. Lots of lists and lots of extra drinks and food always on hand!
Alina says
We planned an event for my daughter’s 5th birthday with the theme of unicorns. I did as much as I could to make the entire Living Room and eating area be unicorn like as possible. I would’ve joked and said, “WOW, a UNICORN exploded in here 🙂 !!!” It was a lot of fun and to see the smile on my daughter made all the hours of planning worth it.
Carly Williams says
My favorite type of gathering to attend is dinner parties. I love getting to spend time with everyone and trying new foods.
Michele Laramay says
How fun this is!
latanya says
I like hosting Christmas parties
Misty lynn says
I love hosting and attending baby showers.