Our latest expert is Scott Buonomo, General Manager of Faculty House. We know New York City living does not always come with an abundance of space, so we asked Scott about how hosts can turn any space into an elevated event venue.
Scott’s advice is to think outside the box.
“Small spaces can feel cozy and intimate with the right mindset,” he said. “Think vertically – use shelves or countertops for food and drinks, tuck seating into corners or even on window ledges. Try to keep clutter out of sight, and arrange furniture to encourage mingling, not bottlenecks. The key is flow.”
For those hosting outdoors this summer, a little planning goes a long way. Scott recommends prioritizing seating and shade to ensure your guests are comfortable despite the heat.
“Outdoor events bring their own special kind of magic,” he said. “Umbrellas, tents, or even beach towels can help guests stay comfortable in the heat. Always have a backup plan for weather, even if it's just having a stash of umbrellas available! Keep lighting in mind if the gathering stretches into the night. String lights, lanterns, or even a few candles can create a warm, inviting atmosphere.”
One of Scott's standout space transformations was turning a classroom into a tasting event.
“We focused on intimacy, transforming an everyday space into something special,” he said. “Soft lighting, standing-height tables and counters for small bites – and we had specialty mocktails passed as guests entered. We staggered arrival times to manage crowding, and it ended up feeling chic and exclusive. It’s all about seeing the potential in a space rather than taking it at face value.”
One expert strategy hosts can use to make their next event run smoothly is to prep as much as possible before guests arrive.
“Have drinks chilled and ready, and set out snacks and things so that guests can serve themselves,” Scott recommended. “Cue up a playlist, dim the lights and light a candle or two to set a nice tone. Have things like a lighter, spare phone charger, and extra napkins at the ready beforehand. It’s a lifesaver and prevents you from scrambling during the event.”
Most importantly, Scott said, the host sets the tone.
“If you’re relaxed and having fun, your guests will follow your lead, especially when something small goes off the rails. Hosting is about creating a feeling, not trying to create perfection. People remember how they felt more than what florals you used!”
