This simple trick will upgrade our dinner party from ordinary' to 'extraordinary' – says RHONY's Brynn Whitfield

If we could bag ourselves an invite to any dinner party this holiday season, it would surely be Manhattan's newest it-girl, Brynn Whitfield. However, while we can't all take a seat in her West Village apartment, we can settle for the next best thing and take her hosting tips into our own home. 

The RHONY personality collaborated with CB2 to mark the start of the most sociable point of the calendar in the most stylish way possible – and with the partnership comes a list of her hosting rules that will set our parties aside. But what is the secret to an unforgettable night?

'While an amazing playlist, flowing cocktails, and plenty of food are mission critical to a memorable party, the most important thing is to be present – warm and welcoming. Energy truly is everything,' Brynn comments in an interview with H&G. However, setting place cards is the most simple yet impactful step we can take to ensure our tablescape is 'perfect.' 

'Place cards are a must,' she says.' Handwritten place cards thoughtfully placed – as well as an absurd amount of candles and florals – transform an ordinary dinner party into an extraordinary one.'

Placecards aside, Brynn's collaboration with CB2 offers further ways for us to set a table worthy of Manhattan's social elite. 

'My first pick would be the Marie Plum Coupe Cocktail Glasses; champs are always in order, and the shape of the coupe (versus fluted or stemmed) is so classic; also, it's a subtle yet rich pop of color, which is always a good thing in every style of home,' she says.

Brynn Whitfield

Brynn Whitfield is a corporate communications and marketing consultant and reality TV star. She recently starred in the new series of The Real Housewives of New York City and has now collaborated with modern decor powerhouse CB2 for the holiday season. 

'I would also pick the White Marble Tiered Serving Stand. Marble goes with almost everything and anything, and the tiers elevate your serving ware and allow you to display your delicious small bites proudly. Lastly, the Duval Glass Decanter- the amber bottom is simply stunning and makes any barrel-aged spirit look positively irresistible.' 

'My grandmother taught me: You don’t need to have the perfect house to be the perfect host. Hosting is more about what’s in your heart, not what’s in your home.' Of course, we're inclined to agree, but we're also taking this as our cue to pick up some new cocktail glasses, too. It's the season, after all.