About Ashleigh McKenna
After first subscribing to sweetspot.ca to get to know her new city, Ashleigh McKenna now gets to help find the sweet stuff worth sharing as Editor and General Manager. Go behind the scenes from favourite manicure spots to product sneak peeks and more.
The sound of silence can indicate a certain comfort level in an intimate relationship.
But at a dinner party, it's a real downer.
I've had the good fortune of attending some really great dinner parties over the years (and one day I'll graduate to SweetHome-style hosting, I'm sure I'm hoping).
Some of those gatherings have been through an initiative known as L12, developed by guy about town (not to mention friend, and now the Director of Programming, Special Events & Experience, Thompson Toronto), Marcello Cabezas (seen here in last season's GotStyle show).
He started arranging groups of a "Lucky 12" from a wide friends-of-friends network and always keeps the conversation flowing. While attending is invite-only, Marcello was sweet enough to share some tips for a perfect evening (regardless of where you gather).
What is the key to putting together a perfect guest list? Openness. You need people who are not closed off; who can bring something to the table (and be open to what others have to say). It's getting people together who are doing interesting things with their lives, that others can be inspired by. Finally, a mix of different career focuses is definitely key.
Silence has started…how do you kick-start a conversation? Um, ask the group who wants to go for colonics next week. Followed by reminding people this is a key party and start passing the bowl. (Also read about Marcello’s use of question game, Gravitas.)
Prefer hosting at home or eating out? That is a tough one. I live in a place now with not a large table to host. House of Commons is really interesting, but has a stunning table for 12. It is a perfect setting, as it is like you are at home, but you are out. Private dining rooms are great. (I hear the one at the main resto at Thompson Toronto opening in May will be sick. For about 20 lucky folks I hear.)
Favourite spots to eat in the city (that won’t empty your wallet): I love tapas and family style. Gios Really Really Nice Resto, Julie's, Le Select, Harbord Room, and School for brunch, and the upcoming Gusto 101 on Portland (unreal short ribs), and Buca (unreal polenta), House of Commons (dinner and brunch), Nyood and Kultura, Live
Favourite spots to eat in the city (if money is no object): Blowfish for sushi (red rice maki rolls to die for), Lee, Colborne Lane (have not tried yet), Ame, and Victor (amazing!).
Read more about the start of L12 (and how to make a table of 12 work) >>
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