Host How I Host: Megan Frederick

Hosts with imaginations all their own

Partytrick Ambassador | Spin Instructor | Marketing Director

"Having one focus means the rest can be your classic pieces you already have."

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What's your process for planning a gathering in your home?

I'm a theme girlie. I'll see something that catches my eye—glassware, painted ceramic plates, one dish at a restaurant that was unreal—and create a theme out of that. The rest then falls into line with the theme!

What are your go-to party activities or games to break the ice?

This is usually a post-meal activity, but I found these "wish papers" at a random store once and I love to pull them out when the time is right. You take the little piece of paper, write your wish (or goal, or something you want to let go of...you get it), and then roll the paper up. You then stand it up and light the top on fire. As the fire burns to the bottom, it will actually lift into the air and "fly away" releasing it into the universe. Super cheesy but with the right group and right vibe it works. Christmas dinner or New Years is always a safe bet!

"I found these "wish papers" and I love to pull them out when the time is right."

If you had a limited budget to put together a small dinner party, what would you focus on for the tablescape?

I would decide on one "hero" product or focus. Whether it was a statement tablecloth, fun flowers, or cool dishes, having one focus means the rest can be your classic pieces you already have. OR alternatively, keep it simple and have lots of candles and a great playlist—those two are the key to a vibe.

What makes a great gathering memorable?

The people! You can have the best food, best decor, incredible flowers, signature cocktails, etc etc etc. But without good people and good conversation you have nothing!

"Keep it simple and have lots of candles and a great playlist—those two are the key to a vibe."

If someone is feeling overwhelmed by hosting their friends in their home, what tips would you give them?

This is so niche... but I think if you're nervous about hosting, you break that seal with a Pizza Party. It has all the makings for a perfect party. You supply the dough, and your guests bring their fave toppings and fave bottle of wine. You now have food covered, drinks covered, an activity (who doesn't love to make a pizza?!), and a super fun theme (and it's low budget)! Ice cream for dessert is an obvious must.

"Ice cream for dessert is an obvious must."

Favorite recipe or food to serve when hosting?

There's something about a GOOD Caesar Salad that just does it for me. Block of parm and a grater on the table when serving—chef's kiss.

What is the soundtrack to a dinner party in your home? Have any favorite playlists?

I think it depends on the theme and guests! A new trick of mine, however, is if I am at a restaurant and like their playlist, I ask the server what it is and save it on my Spotify! Plus, some restaurants make their own playlists so search your faves and see if they come up!

What is your favorite partytrick?

Diversify the group! Don't invite friends from all the same friend group. Don't invite all couples. Don't just invite the same people every time. You never know the friendships, relationships, and bonds that people could create breaking bread together with you!

About our Host

Hi, I'm Megan and I live in Charleston, South Carolina working as a marketing director and spin instructor! I recently had my dream wedding to my high school sweetheart and found that creatively hosting people was something I really loved! Since our wedding, we have started hosting a monthly dinner party—he cooks, I create the vibe. I love getting to not only bring people together but to get creative and put together something beautiful for people to enjoy.

Join her party:

• Instagram: @meganjfrederick
• TikTok: @meganjfrederick

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