#dinner-parties

#dinner-parties

This year, I'm making my own celebrations and reaching my peak social potential by hosting at least one dinner party a month, going all out each time. First on my lineup is a Ham Party - I was just gifted a 12-pound hock, so I'm using it as an excuse to gather friends on a Sunday. The invitation I made features a tiny watercolor ham with a bow, the dress code is pink, and I'm serving French 75s and homemade sides.

It's no coincidence that my last name, Mesa, translates to "table." I believe I was born to work in the hospitality industry, and my passion for hosting people was nurtured from a young age. Growing up in the Dominican Republic with my maternal grandparents not only introduced me to an immaculate home but also a beautifully decorated dining table. My grandmother took pride in creating bright floral arrangements, polishing silverware, and making name cards with magic markers.

Not necessarily because of the flowing bottles of wine and the second and third helpings of dessert - though those are great - but because of the chatter around the table. The unexpected personal connections. The shared laughter, heated debates, thinly veiled gossip, spontaneous moments of revelry. The ideal dinner party is all about the company; not just how they contribute to the vibe, but also how each guest embraces the opportunity to meet new people.

The dinners are "an opportunity for eight strangers to break bread together," Alex explains, emphasizing the significance of connection through food, friendship, and conversation.

Gaines uses a garlic butter spread, especially when serving up a pasta dish, elevating store-bought sourdough bread into an impressive crowd-pleaser.

It's easy to pick up on your way, it's likely to get consumed that night, it will last if it doesn't, and it's infinitely regiftable.