Happy New Year—and welcome to 2026!
This year, we’re doing something different. This is the year of Entertaining with a small “e.”
So what does that actually mean?
It means focusing on connection over perfection.
It means great meals shared with people you love—without the pressure of magazine-worthy spreads or elaborate tablescapes.
It means the not-necessarily-an-occasion dinner party.
Small “e” entertaining isn’t about impressing anyone. It’s about being together.
🍽️ If Hosting Sounds Stressful… You’re Not Alone
As you’re reading this, you might be thinking:
“Planning a dinner party sounds about as fun as a stress test… or a root canal.”
Or maybe:
“It could be fun… but I’m not totally sure where to start.”
I get it. Truly.
And that’s exactly why I’m here.
📅 What You Can Expect From Me
I want this space to feel approachable, practical, and genuinely useful. Here’s what’s coming your way every week—all free, right here:
- Mondays: An article on a specific aspect of dinner party entertaining
- Wednesdays: A new recipe to try
- Fridays: A fresh episode of Cocktails with Colleen
My goal is to keep what’s free exciting, true to who I am, and a real value to you.
🥂 For Those Who Want a Little More Support
Substack paid subscribers will receive two full dinner party plans each month:
- One seasonal dinner party, celebrating what’s fresh and in season
- One activity-based dinner party, like a movie night or game night
Each plan includes:
✨ A complete menu
✨ Easy-to-follow recipes
✨ Table-setting ideas
✨ Setup and timing tips
✨ Shortcut options and “go all in” versions
These plans are designed to remove the stress of planning so you can focus on what actually matters—enjoying your guests.
💛 About the Investment
I know we all need to be thoughtful about where we spend our money. The annual membership is $70 per year, which breaks down to just under $6 a month.
This project has been living in the back of my mind since I hosted my very first dinner party at age 25. Being able to share these ideas, menus, and plans with you each season brings me so much joy—and I’m incredibly excited to take you along on this journey.
Subscribe to Substack HERE.
OR… you can download individual plans HERE.
✨ Stay Connected & Inspired
✨ Subscribe so you don’t miss more real-world entertaining tips and weekly recipes.
✨ Upgrade to paid so you won’t miss out on any of the fun dinner parties I’ve planned for you.
✨ Forward this email to a friend who’s been saying “we should have people over” for years—they’ll appreciate this one.
✨ Follow along for easy menus, décor ideas, and ways to make every gathering feel special, joyful, and authentic.
Here’s to less pressure, more presence, and a year full of shared tables
Cheers,
Colleen 🥂
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