Potlucks Are as Timeless and Effortless as it Gets

I’ve always been known as the host in my social circle, regularly inviting friends into my cozy NYC-sized apartment to partake in a laboriously prepared multi-dish menu. I reveled in the role for a while, but like many other things I’ve given 110% of myself to, I eventually burned out (the end-of-night mountain of dishes didn’t help). The thought of having anyone over felt like a massive burden, and for a time, I retreated into the comfort of my introversion and eerily quiet home. But try as I might, I couldn’t deny the hosting itch that still existed deep inside; I just had to find a better, more sustainable way to do it. Enter the gloriously low-lift, high-enjoyment potluck, which revived my passion for hosting and made me rethink hospitality as a way of life — rather than a one-time performance.

As I began to test the waters, I realized that my view of potlucks (chaotic Friendsgivings, awkward work events at the office, and occasions where abundance and quality didn’t always correlate) didn’t do justice to the inherent benefits. At their core, potlucks are simply an open-ended template for any kind of party: big or small, elaborate or minimalist, brunch or dinner, a birthday bash or just another Friday night. They require little more than a space and a date to pull off — and attendees become active participants in creating the experience together, with a shared load, communal benefits, and ample leftovers. They make room for anticipation, expectation, and surprise (I discovered that most of my friends can cook). They allow the host to breathe a little and…enjoy themselves. What’s not to love?

Although potlucks can be anything you make them, my favorite hosting hack has been structuring them around a theme, which does double duty of making food both the star and the least stressful part of the whole event. My latest infatuation: croissant brunch parties, where guests bring a few croissants from a bakery of choice, I provide coffee and tea, and we dig into a dreamy spread of flaky pastries in a group-powered taste test. During the summer, I also host an annual sandwich party, where everyone contributes their favorite fillings or side (along with strong opinions about the best handheld combo) to a joyful, frenzied celebration of the sando. Themes keep potlucks streamlined (and fun!) and all you need is some initiative to turn any idea into a memorable party.

Rediscovering the choose-your-own-adventure charm of a potluck was transformative because it replaced the burden of impressing guests with the ability to be present with them across the table: what hospitality’s really about. Now potlucks are the only way I host — for any occasion and any time of day — and instead of dreading a long prep list, I’m dreaming up my next party theme and queuing up the text invites.

Whether you’re a seasoned entertainer or a newbie host, potlucks are an easy, empowering way to bring people together. Here are a few tips that will help make your next (or first) BYO gathering a smooth, smashing success.

Choose a theme

If you want. While not required, themes are a practically helpful way to create structure and add a touch of whimsy to your event. It can be anything: a food to spotlight, an era or season to celebrate, or even a concept or vibe to explore. (For my 30th birthday, I combined all three for a nostalgia-themed ‘90s pizza party.)

Delegate with clear directions

It might sound bossy, but most people appreciate more guidance, not less, so be specific about what guests can bring — and consider diversifying so you end up with a balanced spread (don’t forget about the wine!). As a courtesy, give invitees plenty of advance notice.

Prepare light bites

Set out light appetizers for guests to nibble on while waiting for everyone to arrive. Anything from a simple crudité platter to a ‘gram-worthy cheese board gets the job done.

Have back-ups on deck

Say hello to your hosting BFF, the freezer. Stock up on last-minute apps or desserts that can be thrown together in case you need to fill in any gaps (frozen cookie dough never fails to save the day).

Take inventory of tableware

Utensils, plates, and cups — as well as tongs and serving spoons — are indispensable hosting essentials. Attendees may need to transfer their contributions to serving dishes or warm up their food in the oven, so have those at the ready, too.

Dole out leftovers

Share the love and distribute leftovers in food storage containers (ideal for morning-after snacking). Send your guests off, take a well-deserved breather on the couch, and pat yourself on the back for a job well done — then start planning your next potluck party.