How to host a stylish summer party at home with Jonathan Adler
Jonathan Adler’s designs are fit for any season, but the bright colors, nautical notions, and groovy resort-wear looks of his summer invitations have us in the mood for a party. And what could be better on a balmy night in July than gathering with all your favorite people for delicious food, flowing drinks, and maybe even a little impromptu dancing? We know that hosting a summer dinner party at your home can seem daunting, but acclaimed designer, potter, and consummate entertainer Jonathan Adler has some advice on how to strike just the right balance of high and low to ensure a truly enjoyable evening for both you and your guests alike.
The stylish designer is no stranger to glamor, but Adler’s personal hosting style encourages a more relaxed, welcoming vibe that will make every guest feel right at home, while still leaving them sufficiently impressed. From serving food that people actually want to eat, to playing fun tunes, to cleverly letting everyone know when the sun has set on your memorable evening and it’s time to head out–Adler is graciously sharing all his favorite tips on how to host the best summer dinner party from home.
Table of Contents
Don’t shy away from décor
Summer tablescapes should be three things: sunny, optimistic, and chic, so pile on your favorite pieces, and don’t worry about over-scaping. It may seem counterintuitive, but when the table is too spare, people are afraid to move anything and don’t feel at home. You’re welcome!
Choose a color scheme
Blue is a wonder hue. Every shade of blue works with every other shade of blue, and I return to it again and again when I’m looking for color inspiration.
Serve a satisfying meal
For food, I like to keep it simple. Everyone loves a lobster roll or guacamole. Think of the things that people actually like to eat and serve those dishes, as opposed to a reduction of something and a foam of another thing.
Keep the drinks flowing
Every summer party needs a libation station! A bar cart is a party on wheels and says you’re louche and know how to entertain. A standalone bar—like our Bond Bar—stashes your bottles (and your bits and bobs) in style. Plus, when the party’s over, you can just close the doors and your guests will get the hint that it’s time to take a hike.
Have a signature drink, or don’t!
When it comes to beverage options, I like to let everyone choose their own adventure.
Don’t sweat the small stuff
Nothing takes the air out of a party quite like a hectic host, so give yourself more time than you think you need, and take the pressure off! Remember, your friends are coming to see you, not judge the dust in your corners or the drizzle on your crostini.
Let guests know what they can bring
I exhort my guests to come as they are. Unless, of course, they want to drop off a shiny new Rolex, in which case, I wouldn’t say no!
Play some fun tunes for a spontaneous sing-a-long
I’m obsessed with pop country, and you should be too.
Open up the seating chart
The key is to let everyone sit wherever they’d like and throw a few glamorous eccentrics into the mix. A random selection of high, low, and everything in between is what makes a party fun. Ideally, I’d always have at least one heiress and one drag queen in attendance.
Keep the party going as long as you like
I love a party until I don’t. I always make sure to keep the food and drinks flowing; nothing’s worse than a fête where you’re underfed. But when it’s time for everyone to go, I’m not shy. I’m known to turn off the tunes and douse the firepit in water. It’s dramatic, but it works – and gives people something to talk about on their drive home.
Find your perfect co-host
I would never throw a party without my husband Simon. He’s my favorite little party trick!
Jonathan Adler’s lighthearted perspective shows us how planning a summer party should be as pleasant an experience as the main event itself. At Paperless Post, we agree with that sentiment, so when you’re ready to plan your next lively lobster extravaganza (or whatever seasonal cuisine floats your boat), take a look at our festive collection of Jonathan Adler summer invitations. Happy hosting!
