Hosting Our First Family Dinner in 2020</a>

It’s been a literal dream for years to have a home where we could host friends and family for dinner. After living in a tiny 300 sq. ft studio apartment for 6 years, we manifested our move to a home in Ojai this summer. Full House Tour - Coming Soon. Despite all that has transpired from this year… I recognize our privilege and deeply grateful to be able to connect in-person and feast with our immediate family. It was the first time we hosted our family under one roof, so this was a very special gathering.

When it comes to first experiences like hosting a family dinner for the first time may be stressful. I learned a few things and wanted to share some tips and recommendations:

1) Don’t over-plan or obsess about what you think you need.

I was focusing on getting all the things - finding candle holders, appropriate serving trays, and setting up our outdoor deck (which still has yet to be furnished). We were able to find vintage chairs and purchase enough tableware but definitely went a little over-budget. I’ve re-learned a lesson I’ve already learned from producing events in the past that you might think you need all the things to curate a lovely experience, but it’s in your intention and energy that will create an amazing experience for your guests.

2) Use what you have and Get Creative!

When I was planning to style our tablescape, I looked for inspiration on Pinterest. I found that choosing a theme and color scheme is the best way to create a beautiful table setting. I choose neutrals with hints of fall colors. We already started collecting our tableware throughout the months, so we only needed to get a few extra plates and utensils. I also ended up using an old jar for storing our spoons and spatulas as our centerpiece vase. Then, I foraged in our neighborhood and mixed in store-bought florals for a unique fall foilage centerpiece.

2) List out all the ingredients you need and purchase them all 1-2 days prior.

Daniel was in charge of cooking so I didn’t bother to note if we needed everything the day of. I ended up going to the market 5x and would have preferred to save time for last-minute touches to set-up. Thankfully, we are no more than 5 minutes from our local grocery stores.

3) Phone Free Dinner

It was my boyfriend’s idea to not have phones during dinner. We captured photos before (thanks to my sister) and it felt really special to be present with our meals and conversations. We jokingly had a bet of who would cave to using their phone first. Hah!

4) Board Games

Since we were implementing a phone free dinner, I thought it would be fun to connect and play some games. We played Scrabble which was extremely entertaining. Didn’t realize my mom would be so good at it! She won the prize for winning against our scrabble teams.

5) Don’t get too many Desserts

If you are the host of any gathering, you’re most likely going to have all the leftovers. I didn’t communicate who should bring dessert and so we ended up with multiple chocolate cakes and pies. Not great for someone who’s been limiting sugar due to a health protocol. Next time, I will be wrapping up any leftover desserts for guest to take home - hah!

Tablescape decor and dinnerware are linked below. Please note: I may receive a small commission if you purchase via the links. :)