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!
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I love any gathering with friends and family. Always fun to get together.
Love all of these prizes!
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.
That should read s’mores..haha..geesh.
I love to host parties for my sweet kiddos’ birthdays and also seasonal parties. Thanks for the giveaway!
Party celebrating achievements. I think they are the best. I love to come together with people and just be joyous about what someone did.
Thank you for the giveaway.
Casual gatherings with just the right amount of decor and style,
Can’t wait to read this!
Love hosting! I am easy breezy
I love holiday parties because the focus is not on one person.
Easy breezy …can always get new ideas…
I need to learn how not to be a perfectionist when hosting. Beautiful prizes!
I love small, intimate, casual gatherings!
I love to host dinner parties during the summer/fall.
After years of entertaining I still get nervous, would love to be an easy breezy entainer!
Love this!
Can’t wait to get the book! We have a new home & seem to be the new gathering spot for our friends!
Big, small, love them all. Keeping my eyes on the heart of the matter helps it be a Simple just-right Gathering.
Easy Breezy definitely describes me. I like to host but have everyone bring something so the whole thing doesn’t fall to me.
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!
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.
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!
i love anniversary parties the best! so sentimental
I’m a Perfectionist too! I spend a lot of time thinking through all the details to make sure they are just right!
I wish I loved hosting more…maybe the book will help
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!
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.
I love any casual gathering with close friends and family!
easy breezy
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.
My favorite type of event to host is my children’s birthday parties. So fun and whimsical.
Looking forward to reading this one. It’s on my birthday list!
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.
Perfectionist
Excited to read this book!
Love following Melissa’s blog! She is so inspiring
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
My favorite gathering is small and relaxed! Not a lot of small talk..
My favorite type of party is spontaneous with a few friends playing games and eating snacks.
Dinner parties and Christmas are fun to host
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.
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.
My kids birthday parties!!
perfectionism can be good AND bad for sure:)
love your site
I like attending casual, laid back events, like an outdoor BBQ.
Congrats on your book!! And thank you for the thoughtful giveaway!
I love casual gatherings with friends.
Favorite type of gathering to host…a casual brunch with friends, or an artsy evening with girlfriends!
My favorite is having Family and close friends over! Would love to win!
I love Oyster Shucking picnics!
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.
I love Melissa’s books!
Can’t wait to get the book
I love hosting all kinds of gatherings in my home-family celebrations, holidays, casual gatherings with friends and church gatherings.
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.
I love attending afternoon teas! It’s been years since I’ve been to one, but they are so much fun!
Perfectionist. This book looks refreshingly helpful!!
I like attending small gatherings with mostly people I know, but some new faces.
I love to host a Christmas open house!
A few friends , simple snacks, fun conversation
I’d love to win!
We have a St. Patrick’s Day party every year, which is always a lot of fun!
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!
Also a perfectionist…not really sure how that happened!
I’m enjoying the exposure to new blogs, and the chance to win such nice prizes!
I love casual neighborhood pizza parties!
I love “make your own pizza on the grill” nights!
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!
I love hosting Thanksgiving. All the yummy foods, family gathers together!
I love to host or attend parties with close friends and yummy food!!!
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.
I am easy breezy. I like to host or attend small gatherings best of all
I am a Nervous Nester – I need to get my nerves under control and entertain more. Maybe this book will help!
Me too — I got perfectionist.
What a wonderful giveaway! Thanks so much!
Nervous Nester. It sounds like me.
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.
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.
Im a “Social Butterfly”!
Easy Breezy, lemon squeezy!
I love that cake stand!
Looks like a beautiful and useful book…especially to a “Perfectionist”!
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!
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!
I like “make your own” events. Tacos, burgers, etc.
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!
I’m a perfectionist too! Love this blog post!
My favorite party is with close friends where we all kick back and relax and no one watches the time fly!
What a beautiful site. Thanks for a chance to win.
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.
Me too, Amanda!
Social Butterfly
I’m partial to my kids birthday parties. I love to see how their faces light up!
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!
Easy Breezy! Love the items in your giveaway!!!
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!
I’m a nervous nester. I like to host parties like baby showers or bridal showers because the focus is on some one else.
I’m an easy breezy hostess!
I’m the social butterfly, but I lean toward perfectionist, I know! I am really enjoying visiting some new-to-me blogs!
Love hosting parties, but yup love everything to go great!
I love small parties.birthday and holidays especially.
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!
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.
I like simple/casual entertaining. It easier to relax and enjoy the company.
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!
I love Melissa’s style. She I USC one of my go to blogs.
Nervous nester – A movie night is my fave gathering to host, and baby showers are my fave parties to attend!
As a perfectionist….I would love to serve some items on or with your beautiful gift items.
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!
Gotta get this book!
Easy breezy…party on the patio anytime!
Love Melissa’s style! Thanks for the giveaway!
Nervous nester here. I think I need this book!
I got easy breezy, which seems to fit me pretty well!
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.
I love the idea of this book.
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.
I love to gather with friends or family for good food and games. Lots of laughter!
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!
Looking forward to reading the new book.
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 : )
Love Melissa’s books. Can’t wait to get this new one.
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.
This looks like such a great book! I must get it!!
Perfectionist learning to be more Easy Breezy!
Easy breezy!
Would love to own any of these!
Everything is so pretty!! Love them!
I’m easy breezy, but maybe with a bit of perfectionism. Thanks for the opportunity to win these beautiful gifts!
Looks like a wonderful book!
Simple gatherings with family and friends.
Fun book topic
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!
I’m a Nervous Nester and an Introvert so small gatherings of family and close friends are much more enjoyable for me.
Love the bowl…it’s just beautiful!
I’m a “perfectionist” but I’m working on relaxing what’s not as important and focusing on the people!
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.
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!
I got Nervous Nester and this book seems perfect for me to learn to be more relaxed about hosting.
As a perfectionist I am hoping to infuse my hosting skills with simple and creative tips. Everyone appreciates a relaxed hostess.
Thanks for being a part of this giveaway – what fun!
I love that cake stand! Can’t wait to read the book.
I love hosting events…birthday parties, ladies brunch, etc
Sports based! Game day gatherings are my favorite. Easy Breezy.
Nervous nester. Ugh. Need to change.
Me too – never thiught of that.
I love small, intimate gatherings where I really get to know people. And good food and drinks is a plus!
I’m a perfectionist who has a soft spot for kid parties.
I love hosting teaparties and small gatherings with friends!
Nervous Nester. I prefer to host and attend smaller, more intimate gatherings.
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.
I am a social butterfly! I just love books like this that help make parties more organized!
What a beautiful wooden bowl! I need one.
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!
Thanks for hosting!
I’ve been waiting for this day! Can’t wait for my book to arrive! (the quiz was pretty fun, too
I’m so where between perfectionist and social butterfly, working on new home to make it more hospitable!
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.
Great party. Thanks
Going to have to get my hands on this book!
I love Christmas parties!
I love hosting parties for family and friends!
My favorite type of gathering to host and attend is an easy throw together, no frills, come as you are smallish party.
Beautiful gift! I’m a perfectionist and could use some tips for making hosting parties more relaxing!
I can’t wait to read this book!
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!
I love hosting any and all gathering! They all let me exercise my creativity!
Would love to grow in hospitality!
I’m The Perfectionist….who would like to figure out how not to be that! Can’t wait for Melissa’s book!!
I love to attend anything with people I know well. #extrovertedintrovert
Love the planning out special details of a gathering but enjoy the people gathered the most!
Beautiful giveaway!
I love to celebrate birthdays!
I’m a Social Butterfly (who tends towards perfectionism). This book might help that tendency!
This is so much fun!!
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.
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!!
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!
Favorite gatherings I like to attend are casual, comfortable clothing not dressy, friendly people. Sitting around a fire pit enjoying a drink with friends!
I love to host small groups of friends!
I love a small, intimate gathering of friends where the pressure is off!
I am a nervous nester even guests have a great time.
Any gathering with my family
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!
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.
Oh I like attending anything casual, especially if I already know a few people.
I love all gatherings, but I think baby showers are my particular favorites. I love babies and all things baby.
I’m easy breezy! Hanks for sharing.
sooo surprised my style turned out to be “perfectionist”! i have much to learn.
Can’t wait to read this book!
How fun! I am no good at parties (I got the nervous Nester ?)… but I love going to them!!
I’m a Perfectionist as well. I dread hosting parties unless I have at least 6 weeks notice.
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.
I like a casual potluck outdoor gathering where the men are grilling and everyone brings a dish.
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.
i love baby showers
I’m a nervous Nester! I can’t wait to read this book to help give me some confidence with hosting more.
we love hosting! beautiful book. beautiful give away items.
Easy Breezy, huh. More like Stressy Bessie!
I really enjoy my Bunco meetings. The formula is fairly basic, but the anticipation for the main meal and dessert is half the fun!
I am a perfectionist! This book looks great!
This is Great!
It looks like a really neat book with lots of great ideas.
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.
Easy breezy… hahah maybe I am sometimes?!
One that is super low key
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:)
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!
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.
Yup, totally a perfectionist – really need to learn to chill out and just enjoy the company!
Recovering perfectionist here!
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
I love attending or hosting smaller dinners or get-togethers, where people can have wonderful conversation and be present with each other.
I just love filling our home with people for any reason. This is a fun giveaway. The book looks really neat.
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!!
Ohh thank you so much Alicia!! I love it!!
Fellow Perfectionist trying to place priority on people!
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.
Looks like a fun & useful book!
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!
I love hosting, but it is admittedly stressful.
I love hosting birthday parties for my kids and family, baby showers, engagement parties, housewarming parties, and even just a girlfriend get together potluck.
Am I the only one who loves to PLAN the party, but not actually attend?
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
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.
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!
I’m definitely a perfectionist! Lists and boards and check boxes…
I love hosting Sunday Football parties!
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!
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.
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!
I’m easy breezy!
Favorite types of gatherings are where there is a variety of foods, music and people!
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.
I love attending parties where there is a mixture of prebought and DIY decor along with a boisterous group of people.
Such a fun book and great prizes!
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.
I love intimate gatherings with close friends the best!
I have 4 birthdays and 2 holiday celebrations between now and January 7 and can use all the tips available! Thank you.
I cannot wait to read this book. I am excited to refine my entertaining skills and make all feel welcome.
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.
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.
I’m a perfectionist who desperately needs to learn simplicity in hospitality :)!
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!
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.
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.
i love pool parties and cook outs. great food and very relaxed.
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.
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.
I love a room full of people laughing and having great conversations in our home. There is nothing like it.
Can’t wait to read this book!
Love Melissa’s simply beautiful books!
So glad you ladies are supporting one another! That is a blessing to all I am sure!
Actually, my favorite gathering is a potluck! No pressure, and lots of good food and conversation!
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
Thank you so much Melissa! What a joy today has been!!
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 
We love hosting Thanksgiving at our house. It’s the one time a year where our families from near and far can be together.
I love hosting friends for dinner.
Holiday gatherings with family are my favorite. Although, I am rarely the hostess!
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.
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!
I’m a perfectionist who is learning to lighten up. I love casual get-togethers with great food!
I love a laid-back gathering, especially when it’s great weather and can be outside, with adult beverages and yummy appetizers.
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!
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.
My favorite type of gathering to attend is dinner parties. I love getting to spend time with everyone and trying new foods.
How fun this is!
I like hosting Christmas parties
I love hosting and attending baby showers.