You know the routine: Having committed to hosting a dinner party/book club/wedding shower, you scramble to assemble a stylish tablescape to fit your Coastal Cool/Murder Mystery/Parisian-Chic theme. You make umpteen mad dashes to your tabletop outfitters of choice, and then when your guests have gone, you’re left with three dozen Eiffel Tower–emblazoned dishes gathering dust. 

Enter: Social Studies. Since 2019, the tabletop company has taken the hassle out of entertaining by renting out curated, all-inclusive kits for events ranging in size from four to 40, then picking it up at your door when you’re done. (Love it too much to return it? Their wares are available for purchase, too.) In June, the company relocated its headquarters from Brooklyn to Dallas, bringing with it perks like expedited delivery within DFW. Co-founder Jessica Latham is excited to set up shop in a city known for throwing a stylish shindig. “It doesn’t hurt that Texans love to entertain, and Texans are good at entertaining, too,” she says.

We asked Latham to dish on her favorite hosting tricks to throwing a great party.

“Guests are as happy with a one-pot meal and a big salad as they are with a multiple-course meal. If all else fails, don’t be afraid to order your favorite takeout.”

“Pre-batch your cocktails and set out self-service beer and wine. You’re a host, not a bartender.”

“It’s hard to have a bad evening if you’ve got cocktails in hand and great music.”

“It helps to avoid any awkward moments.”

“I personally prefer to cook—it feels a bit more casual. I like for my guests to help in the kitchen with simple things like dressing the salad or filling water glasses. Guests generally like to feel as if they are being helpful.”

“Coastal Italian food. It’s universally liked, easy to incorporate vegetarian options, and can feel celebratory without being too fancy or heavy. Something like a salt-crusted and baked branzino, roasted veggies, a light pasta, and a salad.”

“When they are in season, fresh vegetables or flowers from my garden, or peaches from the farm stand down the road are a go-to. If not, a small plant—maybe a succulent in a unique ceramic pot. Or just something nice, like a gift card for a manicure.”

750 North St.Paul St. Suite 2100 Dallas, Texas 75201