Summary of "Style-ish" Podcast Episode: "You Need to Know These Rules Before Your Next Dinner Party"
Podcast Information:
- Title: Style-ish
- Host/Author: Shameless Media
- Description: Style-ish is the podcast for all things fashion, brand, business, beauty, and today, food.
- Episode: You Need to Know These Rules Before Your Next Dinner Party
- Release Date: July 8, 2025
Introduction
In this engaging episode of Style-ish, host Madison Sullivan Thorpe, alongside co-hosts Joanna Fleming and Annika Joshi Smith, delves into the art of hosting successful dinner parties. The trio shares personal anecdotes, stylistic swaps, and expert advice to help listeners elevate their dinner party game. The episode is peppered with humor, relatable experiences, and practical tips, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to host memorable gatherings.
Styling Swaps
Before diving into the main topic, the hosts share their latest swaps:
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Joanna Fleming's Faux Flowers: Joanna introduces Studio Alyssum, a business specializing in ultra-realistic silk artificial flowers. She praises their modern arrangements, noting, “They genuinely look amazing” (03:58).
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Annika Joshi Smith's Sleep Tonic: Annika talks about her experience with Aari Deep Sleep Tonic, highlighting its effectiveness and versatility. “This sleep tonic, I swear, is a game changer” (05:14).
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Madison Sullivan Thorpe's Morphe Brushes: Madison discusses Morphe's high-quality beauty brushes, emphasizing their suitability as gifts. “These brushes are so good... really high quality” (07:15).
Main Discussion: 8 Dinner Party Rules
The core of the episode revolves around eight essential rules for hosting dinner parties, curated with insights from Jem Lester, an experienced private caterer and cook.
Rule 1: Ensure You're Catering to All Guests Properly
The hosts emphasize the importance of accommodating dietary restrictions and preferences to ensure all guests feel included and comfortable.
- Joanna Fleming: “I hate sparkling water and always want just tap water on the table” (10:15).
- Annika Joshi Smith: Discusses accommodating pregnant guests by offering alcohol-free options and ensuring everyone has something suitable to eat.
Key Takeaway: Proactively inquire about dietary needs, allergies, and preferences to tailor your menu accordingly.
Rule 2: Let the Ambiance Do the Heavy Lifting
Creating the right atmosphere is crucial for a successful dinner party. Elements like lighting, music, and decor set the mood.
- Madison Sullivan Thorpe: “Vibes are everything” (16:47).
- Joanna Fleming: Highlights the importance of background music and thoughtful bathroom setups with candles and lamps.
Key Takeaway: Invest time in setting up ambiance through lighting, music, and decor to enhance the dining experience.
Rule 3: Don't Let the Guests Do the Dishes
Maintaining a relaxed environment means keeping guests from feeling responsible for cleanup.
- Jem Lester: “I never let my guests do the dishes. I would rather sit and enjoy a wine and then the post dinner chat” (21:22).
Key Takeaway: As a host, manage the cleanup process discreetly to allow guests to fully enjoy their time without obligations.
Rule 4: Always Set the Table First
Avoid last-minute stress by preparing your table setting well in advance.
- Re Joyce: “Always set the table first to prevent last-minute dash around” (25:28).
Key Takeaway: Organize your table settings ahead of time to ensure a smooth and stress-free hosting experience.
Rule 5: It's Not a Performance
Keep your dinner party authentic and avoid overcomplicating the menu or setup.
- Jem Lester: “Stick to a simple menu you know you can execute well. Your guests will be more relaxed and at ease” (29:37).
Key Takeaway: Focus on genuine interactions and manageable menus to create a comfortable atmosphere for both you and your guests.
Rule 6: Don't Ask Your Guests to Pay You Back
Financial considerations can add unnecessary stress to hosting. The hosts advocate for shared contributions rather than direct cost recoveries.
- Madison Sullivan Thorpe: “Delegating tasks is helpful financially. Ask someone to bring a dessert or a cheese board” (34:08).
Key Takeaway: Encourage contributions through potluck-style setups rather than requesting monetary reimbursements to maintain a welcoming environment.
Rule 7: Never Turn Up Empty-Handed as a Guest
Guests should bring a thoughtful gesture when attending a dinner party, such as a bottle of wine, a dessert, or flowers.
- Madison Sullivan Thorpe: “Take people’s favorite olive oil or a beautiful candle” (37:58).
Key Takeaway: Show appreciation to your host by bringing a small, thoughtful gift, enhancing the communal spirit of the dinner party.
Rule 8: As a Guest, Always Give Your Hosts an Extra 10 Minutes
Arriving slightly late can alleviate the host’s stress and allow them ample time to prepare.
- Re Joyce: “If you're expected at 7pm, arrive at 7:10pm” (36:27).
Key Takeaway: Respect the host's preparation time by allowing for a grace period in your arrival, contributing to a relaxed atmosphere.
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with the hosts reflecting on their dinner party experiences, sharing laughs about past gatherings, and teasing future episodes. They underscore the importance of thoughtful hosting and gracious guest behavior in creating memorable and enjoyable dinner parties.
Notable Quotes:
- Madison Sullivan Thorpe: “Vibes are everything.” (16:47)
- Joanna Fleming: “A fun paired cocktail, a handwritten menu, cozy lighting... just soft, sexy background jazz.” (16:47)
- Annika Joshi Smith: “My friends know we're always on time for our dinner times.” (14:08)
- Madison Sullivan Thorpe: “It’s not the time to try a new recipe. It’s when you've got ample guests.” (30:17)
Final Thoughts: Listeners are encouraged to implement these rules to host unforgettable dinner parties, balancing style with substance. The hosts' blend of practical advice, personal stories, and playful banter provides a comprehensive guide for both new and seasoned hosts.
Note: All timestamps reference the podcast transcript provided.