So often I see elaborate dinner parties online and think, “That looks amazing, but how much time did that take?” I’m guilty of admiring them too, and there’s absolutely a place for those fully styled events. But sometimes you want a gathering that looks polished without spending hours fussing over every detail.
That’s the idea behind today’s post: how to host a dinner party that looks effortless—and actually is. I partnered with Macy’s for their semi-annual home sale (starting today) to share simple tips, styling tricks, and quick DIYs so you can host an easy yet thoughtful dinner that feels stylish.
I’ve also included everything I used to create this look, so you can recreate it quickly if you want. Most items pictured (excluding food and plants) are from Macy’s—one-stop shopping makes hosting easier. Save 30–50% plus an extra 15% off home and 10% off electronics, furniture, mattresses, and rugs with promo code HOME at checkout on Macys.com. Read on for the full breakdown and simple entertaining ideas.
Get This Look
First, set the stage quickly. I made a list of everything I used to pull this tablescape together. As mentioned, nearly everything you see (aside from food and plants) is from Macy’s. One-stop shopping is a must for an effortless party. Here’s the full breakdown of featured items:
Kate Spade New York Concord Square Accent Plate // Kate Spade New York With A Twist 4-Pc. Tidbit Plate Set // Kate Spade New York All In Good Taste Deco Dot Accent Plate // Hotel Collection Modern Porcelain 12-Pc. Dinnerware Set in Rose Quartz // Hotel Collection Modern Porcelain 12-Pc. Dinnerware Set in Stone // Hotel Collection Gold Flatware 20-Piece Set // Hotel Collection Linen 2-Pc. Modern Natural Napkins // Thirstystone Marble Board with Copper Handles // Hotel Collection Wood Salad Set // Martha Stewart Collection Set of 2 Heirloom Copper Plated Canisters // Lenox Tuscany Stemless Wine Glasses 6-Pc. Value Set // Lenox Tuscany 6-Pc. Juice Glass Set
Mix and Match
Mixing and matching dinnerware is one of my favorite shortcuts. It’s especially useful when you don’t have a full matching set for a larger group. Embrace different plates and patterns—just keep them within the same color family for cohesion.
For example, I used plates with a subtle black motif at the table ends to tie in with the other dinnerware, then layered the Kate Spade tidbit plate on top for continuity. The result feels curated but relaxed.
DIY Thank You Placecards
Many hosts use assigned seating to make place settings look polished. If you like the look of placecards but don’t want to assign seats, swap them for simple “thank you” cards.
I reused old greeting cards with gold foil: I cut out the “thank you” sentiment, trimmed each into a narrow placecard shape, and tucked them by each plate. They look intentional and elegant, but take only minutes to make.
A (Very) Simple Salad
I often serve a large, hearty salad as the main course—add grilled chicken, fish, or steak for protein and it’s filling and minimal work. Guests come to socialize, not to critique a complex menu, so give yourself permission to keep the food simple.
One of my go-to salads is a strawberry-pecan mix that’s fresh and fast to assemble. If the flavors are good, diners won’t miss a multi-course extravaganza. Serve a quality artisan bread alongside, and you’ve got a satisfying meal with minimal effort.
Herb Garden Centerpieces
To avoid the fuss of floral arranging, use potted herbs for centerpieces. They’re low-maintenance, smell lovely, and can be reused after the party. I used basil planted in copper canisters for a relaxed, lived-in look that reads as intentional without the effort.
You’re a Peach Place Settings
For a playful but simple touch, place a piece of fruit at each setting—add a small leaf under the thank you card for an extra bit of charm. It’s whimsical, seasonal, and takes only seconds.
Drink It Up
Cocktails are lovely, but for the easiest dinner party, skip mixed drinks and open a few bottles of wine that pair well with the meal. It simplifies prep and lets guests help themselves.
Offer sparkling water and a non-alcoholic option like a virgin punch or fresh lemonade for those who don’t drink alcohol. Keep beverages simple and accessible.
For details on Macy’s semi-annual home sale, visit Macys.com and use code HOME at checkout for an additional 15% off home and 10% off eligible categories, on top of sale discounts. It’s an easy way to score pieces that make hosting simpler.
And that’s how you host an effortlessly chic dinner party with minimal stress. If you have questions or favorite quick-hosting tips, I’d love to hear them—please share your ideas.
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This post is a partnership with Macy’s and ShopStyle. All opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that help keep Paper & Stitch running.