Host a Dinner Like Mindy Weiss, Hollywood's Top Party Planner
Mindy Weiss is the extraordinary force behind the most elegant affairs in Hollywood—from Khloé’s pretty-in-pink baby shower to Kris Jenner’s 1920s-themed birthday to Chanel Iman and Sterling Shepard’s star-studded nuptials—author to multiple books every bride should have on her reading list, and our go-to when it comes to social gatherings. “I’ve been planning special events for decades,” she explains. “I learned the art of throwing a fantastic party from my mom, the ultimate planner. Since then, I’ve had the pleasure of being a part of celebrations around the world – from birthdays and milestones to weddings at home and abroad.” Her favorite client, though? “My three-year-old granddaughter, Goldie! She loves to challenge me with her birthday requests.”
So how exactly does Mindy throw a good party? "My approach to planning and the details is all about the host. If a guest can feel connected to the couple or host and feel welcome in the process, the event is a success. Then we pepper in those surprises, amazing lighting (a must!) and incredible food and music and you’ve got the makings of a wonderful evening." Sounds easy enough, right? Here's what else Mindy has to say about throwing the ultimate dinner party!
Photo Courtesy Mindy Weiss
Serve food your guests will like. This sounds simple enough but often times we overcomplicate a menu. Consider your audience and serve foods they will appreciate. Remember the guests who have special dietary needs and offer choices to please all. Everyone loves a fabulous BBQ; it’s always a crowd favorite.
Photo Courtesy Mindy Weiss
[It's] always fun to offer a few drinks that welcome the season you will be celebrating in. Fresh summer fruits, holiday-themed or I love a spring Paloma. Always offer non-alcoholic drinks and if there are children a separate area with juice and waters.
Photo Courtesy Mindy Weiss
If you are making your own playlist, again consider who is attending. If it is a party where you want guests to just mix and mingle, then I suggest great background mellow music. If it is a dance party, start off mellow as guests arrive and then build it up as the guests get comfortable. If you hire a great DJ or band they will have the experience of reading the room.
Photo Courtesy Mindy Weiss
Make it personal! When throwing a party, any kind of party, the more personal you can make it, the more intimate it will feel, the more welcomed guests will be and the more meaningful the event for everyone.
Photo Courtesy Mindy Weiss
Consider a theme. I love a theme or creative twist on a traditional event. Don’t be afraid to pick a theme and weave it throughout. It’s absolutely fine to not have one but it does make it easier when designing and creating “a look.”
Photo Courtesy Mindy Weiss
I love using great vintage finds from my home or local shops. If you have to shop for supplies for your dinner party, consider a local flea market and mix and match tabletop details, layering your table for more dimension and interest.
Photo Courtesy Mindy Weiss
It’s easy to make an event feel lush and luxurious with lots of candles or an abundance of flowers. This doesn’t have to cost a lot. You can purchase flowers at a farmer’s market and make them yourself and your guests will appreciate the personal touch.
Photo Courtesy Mindy Weiss
Lighting is so important to the atmosphere and mood of an event. The best lighting makes people feel welcome, creates a sense of intimacy and makes guests want to stay all night long. I love the look of lots of string lights in a backyard! Open your cabinets and pull out unused candles and if your event is at home and you can dim the lights, do it! Leave it light enough for conversation or dark enough if dancing is on the schedule.
Photo Courtesy Mindy Weiss