Forget the fancy cocktails or a contrived atmosphere, Parisians know that good wine goes with good conversation. A good French host always has several bottles of wine on hand (ones that they understand and can pair with good food) and are up to date with current events or are willing to go “deep” with conversations. If the topic is getting too light, pour some more wine and start asking bigger questions to get the conversation flowing.

Image by Nico Alary for Kinfolk

Nothing is overly planned and overly styled when it comes to the Parisian table. Forget printed name cards, festive placemats, and ornate votives. Pick up simple table accessories that have innate beauty and let the dinner have it’s own natural progression. If your cheese and wine makes its way to the sofa area versus the table, that’s what it should be. The core of it all is great conversation and laughs.

Image from Freunde von Freunden

The French like dishes that can easily be shared and that are made up of the freshest ingredients. Instead of spending time perfecting a complicated recipe, do a little research and figure out where the best produce in your area can be found. Also, Parisian friends often do potlucks – ask your guests to pick up some chocolates for dessert or bring their favorite bottle of wine.

Image from the Kitchy Kitchen

Style is important to hosting the perfect Parisian gathering but perhaps not in they way that you might expect: Parisian hosts only wear outfits that they’d normally wear in their own homes. So ditch the ball gown and the heavy eye-makeup and go for a high-quality sweater and jeans. And if you want to add a little elegant touch, a great lipstick goes a long way.

Image from @deborarosa