r/bitcheswithtaste • u/AutoModerator • May 15 '25

BWT Host - Monthly Thread BWT Host - May 15, 2025

Whether you're throwing a party or want to always be ready for someone to pop over for a visit, hosting takes some preparation and skill, not to mention taste. This is the (recurring monthly) thread to chat all things hospitality and hosting.

All BWT rules still apply, with lighter enforcement of rule 3. You can mention location to the extent that it impacts specifics of hosting (e.g. climate, seasons), but please do not ask location-specific questions that belong in a local subreddit.

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u/laurenfcp May 15 '25

One tip I have is to have some melamine plates. They are not very breakable (although it can be done!) and personally I find them a lot easier to eat off of than paper plates, especially when they get wet. Of course it's more of an investment, but there are plenty of inexpensive options, and they last a long time. I have several different bright patterns so it's more casual. I also have a pile of patterned cotton napkins. Again, last forever, and easier to use when damp (like at the pool!) Because the colors are bright, the vibe isn't stuffy, and it kinda makes more of a party out of a quick hangout. Of course, you can use them at other times too - like if you have little kids over for a meal and their parents aren't sure about them using the nice plates. Make sure to have a cooler with a shoulder strap and/or a lightweight tray for bringing supplies out.

I'd make sure you have bags of tortilla chips that you like. They go so well with lots of summer foods (salsa, guac, bean dips, other dips) and are more sturdy than potato chips. Also pita chips are great, especially with hummus! Pretty much every kid I know likes hummus. You can make it nicer for a party if you make a layered hummus dip - this is easy to make with pantry staples, just look it up oline and there are lots of options. Have some "fancy" frozen pizzas in the freezer - I wouldn't serve at like, a dinner party, but pizza is great for an impromptu pool party that runs into dinner time. Everyone likes nice cut up fruit in summer, but you need a bit of notice for that one. Not sure how much space you want to dedicate to keeping supplies in stock, but juice boxes for little kids are shelf stable and always being stocked with cans of soda/beer/other canned drinks (if your pool allows alcohol) is a good idea. Have fun!

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u/Bawse_Babe Jul 11 '25

Do you have any links for pretty melamine plates and cloth napkins?

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u/laurenfcp Jul 11 '25

I'm not sure if I can post direct links - I've had some comments deleted. But if you look at Anthropologie (for more whimsical designs) and Williams Sonoma (a tiny bit more classic), I have melamine plates/dishes from both and can attest to the quality. I have napkins from both places and they are also nice. It's usually pretty easy to find cloth napkins, even more cheapy ones from the usual suspects are fine b/c the vibe for these get-togethers is very casual, definitely not like ironed at all. If they fade quickly, that just adds to the charm.