Entertaining at Home with House of Gleason

For our Tastemaker Series, we share some of our favorite entrepreneurs, creators and people who influence us to share how they entertain at home. This month's feature is the talented Kristen Bowen of House of Gleason.

Inspired by fashion and an unrelenting desire to host the best dinner parties of all time: founder & lead designer Kristen Bowen created House of Gleason to celebrate the art of homemaking.

From her upbringing in rural Michigan to her home studio in North Carolina, Kristen draws from her family’s rich history of skillful and creative handiwork and a love of fashion to create high-quality linens and accessories for the home.

• What’s your go-to method for creating the perfect party atmosphere? 

  There is something about having music to create ambiance, so I love a playlist. I hosted a small summer cocktail party with some gals on the back porch and played a Billie Holiday Radio. Guests felt like they were in an entirely different place and time. Another go-to playlist is Wine Bar on Spotify. 

• Do you prefer a specialty cocktail or fully stocked bar? 

  A specialty drink. As a guest, I love the opportunity to try something new. As a host, it’s so much easier to plan for and possibly make ahead.

• What’s a no fail recipe that you have mastered for entertaining? 

  A super easy and a crowd pleaser, Ina Garten’s Whipped Feta dip with a toasted baguette or for ease, crackers. There is also a vegan substitution option with this recipe which is great for those with dietary restrictions. Then I usually have a tray of olives, sourdough pretzels, and nuts. 

• What is your favorite hostess gift to receive and/or give? 

  A bit obvious but I love to give cocktail napkins or cocktail accessories. To receive, I would love a book as opposed to the usual wine or candles. Whether it's a coffee table book or a novel you just couldn’t put down, I’d love for someone to share it with me.

  

• What are your tips for creating a unique party theme?

  Being authentic to yourself and theming based on what you enjoy sharing with other people. The excitement you have about that particular theme will make planning and hosting so much fun! 

• What is your favorite party scene from a movie that you reference for inspiration?

  It would be Holly’s apartment cocktail party from Breakfast at Tiffany’s. The men in suits, the ladies dressed to the 9’s, simple cocktails and even the cigarettes make it so iconic as inspiration.

• What’s one unexpected element you love to include in your party decor?

  Can’t pin down just one element honestly. I do believe in keeping decor fairly simple though. A beautiful floral arrangement, pretty stemware, cocktail napkins, a great cocktail, some bites and tunes are all you need for a fabulous evening.

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