Maryury Padilla, founder of C-Ville Bites took the time to share with us some of her best tips for hosting a springtime dinner party. From food and drinks to music and lighting, Padilla has all of the recommendations for making your spring soiree a success.
What do you enjoy most about springtime entertaining?
There is something so refreshing about springtime -- the warmer weather, spring flowers, and a renewed energy in the air. It’s soft and lovely and colorful. My favorite part of springtime entertaining, though, is being able to enjoy the outdoors again after a long winter.
What are the key elements of a successful spring dinner party?
Incredible food is the key -- it can make or break the evening. Consider hiring a chef or caterer for a stress-free, delicious food spread. Small, thoughtful details will also make your guests feel special and give your dinner party an intimate vibe.
Do you recommend hosting indoors, outdoors, or a combination of both for this season?
I prefer to host outdoors in the spring -- the warmer weather, fresh air, and flowers provide an ambiance that your guests will remember. Spring showers are a real thing, however, and you should always have a backup plan, even if it’s a simpler version of your original plan.
How can someone set the tone for a festive and welcoming spring gathering?
Hosts can try their hand at making creative invitations. I’ve worked with a designer in the past, but you can also play around with Canva. A good playlist and festive lighting help encourage a celebratory mood.
What are your go-to tips for creating a spring-inspired tablescape?
Fresh flowers in bud vases will give you an effortless vibe, and a tablecloth or table runner can add texture and color. Small details like handwritten name cards or fun napkins make it all come together.
Are there any colors, textures, or themes that you love incorporating into spring party decor?
I adore pastel tones in the springtime (who doesn’t?). I love using greenery to bring vibrancy and texture to the table. But not everything has to be colorful -- budding dogwood branches make a beautiful centerpiece and really highlight the expectancy of spring.
What dishes or ingredients work well for a spring dinner menu (particularly local ingredients -- feel free to give shout-outs to local producers)?
I love a springtime salad with fresh goat cheese and springtime berries. Caromont Farms here in Charlottesville is great, and the farmer’s market has local strawberries that are particularly delicious.
How can hosts accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences without stress?
To reduce stress, being prepared is the best way to accommodate dietary restrictions for your guests (knowing who’s allergic to what). Be sure to clearly label food if you have a buffet or family-style gathering, and offer some alternatives for dietary restrictions (gluten-free crackers or bread, for example).
What are your favorite spring-themed cocktails or mocktails to serve?
I’d suggest choosing a signature cocktail for a more personalized touch. You can even prep a pitcher or two beforehand and garnish when serving. As for flavors, there's something so bright and refreshing about mint, so I’d probably choose a mojito or mint julep! But anything that incorporates fruit would be delicious -- a strawberry margarita or peach and Champagne bellini. For a more savory option, you could try a bourbon cocktail with a twist of lemon and fresh basil garnish.
What’s one item you always include to make your gatherings feel unique and special?
I love charcuterie. For a personal touch, you can offer charcuterie cups. They’re perfect when guests are arriving or during cocktail hour. A beautifully arranged charcuterie doesn’t have to take a lot of time or effort, but it makes guests feel extra special.
Do you have a favorite spring party memory that stands out?
I remember a backyard dinner party a couple of years ago -- it ended up storming, and we all scrambled to get inside, everyone grabbing a dish and running. I was worried that the mood would be ruined, but we actually had an amazing time -- the storm created a shared experience that we still laugh about.
For someone new to hosting, what’s the most important piece of advice you’d give?
At most events, nothing is going to go 100% right all the time. Plan as much as you can, focus on creating a warm inviting atmosphere, and don’t stress about the little things. Guests will feel the authenticity and energy from you and that is what they'll remember. Also, don’t forget to have a good time. This is your hard work, remember to take a minute and soak it all in.
Maryury Padilla has had a longtime love for organizing events and throwing parties. “Anything to have an excuse to be with friends and eat delicious food,” she said.
Now, with C-ville Bites, she feels lucky to have the opportunity to host food tours, events, and classes for locals and visitors. “There’s something about stopping to celebrate, to take a second and really be present in the moment that I think we could use more of,” Padilla said.” I love the feeling of being together and connecting over great food, music, and company.”
Padilla’s hospitality background extends even further beyond C-Ville Bites. “I’m also a licensed bartender and previous bar manager at several local establishments, and my passion has always been making sure my guests leave with a smile,” she said. “I love the diversity of flavors that our area has to offer. When I have a new culinary experience, my first thought is: I need to share this…”
My favorite part of springtime entertaining is being able to enjoy the outdoors again after a long winter.