light & gather

When I started this blog, it was with the hope of creating gatherings—simple, intimate evenings where people could share a meal, connect, and unwind. I’ve never been drawn to big parties or large social events, but the idea of hosting a cozy dinner or themed game night has always felt special to me.

That’s what inspired the Food + Gather series: each month I choose a theme and plan out my version of a dream private dinner party.

This month’s theme is Soup + Stars. With the days growing shorter and the air turning colder, it felt like the perfect way to welcome the season—a warm table beneath a wide autumn sky.

Below, you’ll find suggestions for how I’d plan the night. Take what inspires you, make it your own, and most of all, I hope it helps you create a joyful gathering.

Location
Choose a spot where you can see the stars—your backyard, a rooftop, a park, or even a virtual night sky soundscape if you’re indoors. The important thing isn’t access to the outdoors but the intention: weaving the feeling of the night sky into your gathering.

Lighting
Lighting sets the mood. If you’re outside, balance visibility with stargazing—use lanterns, string lights, and candles to gently illuminate the table without washing out the sky. Indoors, shift the emphasis toward atmosphere: soft, low lighting that mimics nightfall without leaving you in the dark.

Seating
Floor seating instantly makes the night feel more relaxed and intimate. Layer blankets, rugs, and cushions for comfort, or mix in low chairs if that suits your space. Just be mindful of how many people you’re inviting and how much room you have—cozy is good, cramped is not.

Decor Touches
Here’s where you can play. Create paper star garlands with a friend, scatter eco-friendly star confetti across the table, or tuck fairy lights into mason jars for glowing lanterns. Use flannel as a tablecloth and piles of blankets and pillows if you’re sitting on the floor. Thrift shops and craft stores are goldmines for seasonal and budget-friendly inspiration.

Color Palette
Think deep blues, warm golds, glittering silver, and earthy neutrals. You want the coziness of early autumn mixed with the moodiness of the night sky—a balance of grounded and celestial.