Written by Jacqueline Gonzalez, JoAnne Howell & Terrie Moore
Photography by Deux Boheme & Jason Page
Hosting a party is an art form in and of itself — one that requires a multitude of skills, at that. Whether it’s an intimate dinner party or a grand birthday celebration, creating a memorable experience depends on the details. And even if you feel keen on DIY-ing your event, expert advice never hurts.
From breathtaking floral centerpiece ideas crafted by local florist Iuliia Prokhorova of Wild Veggie Bouquet to expert table-setting inspiration from JoAnne Howell, this feature provides both visual and practical guidance. Discover the art of entertaining and explore thoughtful hostess gift ideas, and learn the essential dos and don’ts of hosting and attending events from Terrie Moore. Plus, a curated list of vendors offers the perfect finishing touches, ensuring every aspect of home entertaining is elevated and seamless.
Golden Rules of Entertaining
Terrie Moore, the owner of Wildflowers and a lifelong hostess, goes over helpful tips and the dos and don’ts of entertaining, whether you’re a guest or hosting the event yourself.
I’ve been hosting parties for as long as I can remember. By 26, I had cooked a full Thanksgiving dinner — not because I loved cooking or was particularly skilled at it, but because I enjoyed setting a beautiful table and curating the guest list. Over the years, I’ve taken mental notes on what makes a gathering successful and what can turn it into a challenge. While stunning decorations add to the ambiance, they aren’t the defining factor. The true essence of a great event lies in consideration, respect and engagement. Whether you’re hosting or attending, here are my top tips for creating or enjoying a memorable soirée.
Tableau Savant
JoAnne Howell, owner of Oh Goodie Designs + Events, shows examples of curating a maximalist, striking tablescape for a fabulous dinner party.
Planning an event this season? Whether it’s an intimate dinner party or a large charity event, allow the experts to inspire your decor details. From florals to the perfect layering techniques, event planning and styling extraordinaire JoAnne Howell of Oh Goodie Designs + Events brings your springtime table setting Pinterest board to life with this enchanting and maximal setting.
Fantastical Florals
The owner and lead designer at Wild Veggie Bouquet shares insights on creating a showstopping floral centerpiece for at-home entertaining.
Depending on where you live or the aesthetic you’re going for, spring florals can look very different. In the north, spring is all about soft pastel colors: delicate pink, pale yellow and light lavender. These gentle hues create a calm, fresh vibe. Here in South Texas, spring bursts with bold, vibrant wildflowers. From deep blues to fiery reds and bright pops of color, our landscape comes alive with color and energy. So first, decide what type of spring you’re looking to emulate.
Vendors of Value
Even the most skilled entertainers can use a helping hand when hosting. Whether in the kitchen or behind the bar, this list of local vendors can help you focus on what really matters once the guests arrive.
Water Street Catering: With over 20 years of experience in perfecting the art of taking events from ordinary to unforgettable, Water Street’s catering services allow clients to create packages with a custom menu, bar service, action stations and more. waterstmarketcc.com | 361.882.8696
Beauty & the Bistro: This catering service has been serving the Coastal Bend since 2001. It has built a reputation for helping clients execute stress-free events with options ranging from breakfast spreads to buffet dinners for gatherings of any size. beautyandthebistro.com | 361.881.8500
