Book Club, Library Style
My book club, The B’s, meets every other month, and we rotate hosting duties. Everyone hosts in a way that suits their lifestyle or schedule—sometimes at restaurants, sometimes at home.
I personally love hosting at home for the coziness, the intimacy, and yes…the excuse to get creative and design a fun-filled evening for the B’s.
When it was my turn to host in January, I knew this would be an indoor gathering. The vibe I was aiming for was old-school library—clean lines, classic elements, and a few unexpected but simple touches.
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I had previously used old book pages to create book balls for another gathering (Book Club: A Night With My Favorite B’s) and loved the subtle literary nod they added to the table. This time, I wanted to try something new, so I made a book bouquet, which became the focal point and centerpiece of the evening.
Here’s how I pulled everything together:
Setting the Table: A Cozy Library Feel
Sticking with the book club theme, I wanted the tablescape to feel like curling up in a library with your favorite book.
- Tablecloth: A white textured cloth (technically a coverlet my mom bought in Turkey years ago) that added softness and interest–similar to this one
- Chargers: Olive green chargers with a matte finish—these really elevated the table
- Plates: Simple white plates from Dollar Tree to keep the look clean and unfussy
- Napkins: Cotton-linen blend napkins in a natural tone for crisp, classic lines
- Glassware: Olive green wine glasses with a vintage feel that tied the colors together beautifully
- Silverware: My everyday flatware in mixed patterns
Extra Touches That Make It Special
This is where I took things up a notch with a few statement pieces.
- Table Lamps: I was fully committed to the library vibe, and these were little gems. Rechargeable and height-adjustable, they’re a purchase I know I’ll use again and again.
- Votives: Candlelight is always a girl’s best friend. Adding another layer of lighting made the table feel even warmer and more intimate.
Floral Arrangements: Simple, Fresh, and Intentional
A quick stop at my go-to Trader Joe’s, and I stuck to a very simple color palette: white, green, with a touch of something rich.
I used:
- Spray roses
- Jumbo mums
- Dianthus
- Lilies
- Eucalyptus
I created smaller bouquets for texture and color, making sure they didn’t compete with the book centerpieces. Bubble vases kept things light, and waterproof aspidistra ribbon added a polished, finished look.
On the Menu: Easy, Make-Ahead Hosting
Since this was a weeknight gathering—and I’d be coming straight home from work—a make-ahead menu was essential.
Appetizers
- Spinach & Artichoke Dip with sliced French baguette
- Cream cheese with pepper jelly, served with assorted crackers, raisin rosemary crisps, and red grapes
(Thank you, Trader Joe’s, for saving my fanny.)
Dinner
- Lemon arugula salad (thanks again, TJ’s)
- Penne and Chicken di Genoa
- Garlic bread
Dessert
- Nothing Bundt Cakes (mini size, assorted flavors—something for everyone)
Hosting Tip: You Don’t Have to Do It All at Once
This evening is a great example of how you don’t have to do everything the day of to host a lovely event.
- Two nights before: table set
- Night before: flowers arranged, casserole and garlic bread prepped
- Day of: casserole in the oven and final touches after work
Yes, it took planning. (And of course, I made it more complicated than necessary—lol.) These ladies would have been perfectly happy with takeout, but hosting is my love language. I truly enjoy the creative process and those thoughtful details that make a night feel special.
A Touch of Swag for the B’s
I always like to send guests home with a little memento. Staying on theme, I ordered embroidered bookmarks from Amazon—each personalized with their initial.
I placed one on the corner of each napkin, so they doubled as table décor and a favor.
Win. Win.
Wrapping It All Up
It was a lovely evening with a group of women who have been gathering for many years. There was lots of laughter…and yes, we actually did discuss the book.
We read The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali, and collectively gave it two thumbs up 👍👍.
I may be overdue for another book recommendation list, but in the meantime, you can check out:
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Thanks for the great tips for my next book club gathering. I just read Theo of Golden by Allen Levy it was one of the best books i ever read.
Great job on the blog Shelley.
So glad you enjoyed. You are the third person to recommend Theo of Golden in the last week. It’s going on the top of my pile! Thanks so much for the suggestion 🙂