How to Host a Magical Romantasy Book Club Dinner Party in Your Backyard

As a woman who enjoys a good romantasy novel, I also enjoy sharing my bookish love with others. A Busy Mom’s Book Club Dinner Party is the perfect way to get some gals together who just want to unwind and enjoy a good book.

Nicki Odom at Book club dinner party table with book in hand

Something happened to me in 2024 that caused a total new focus and redirection in my life. Two big changes were made: one was my overall health, where I dedicated most of my energy to getting healthy again and ended up losing around 64 lbs through the course of a year. The second was commiting to have less screen time and more book time. I am an English and Comparative Lit Major from UNC Chapel Hill, and I can honestly say, between graduating in 2010, to 2025, sadly, I probably read a total of maybe 6 books.. It is crazy to think that.. Well, that definitely changed in 2024!

I went from barely reading anything, to finishing 2024 having read 13/14 books in one year. That is what my Goodreads says, I honestly am not sure if that’s accurate, it feels like I read more than that, but maybe I missed inputting a few re-reads. I started by picking up SJM A Court Of Thorns and Roses series, and mannn did that open the floodgates for Romantasy for me! I don’t ONLY love reading romantasy but it’s definitely my favorite genre. I like mystery and some low key thrillers, but the romance and strong conquering FMC is the sweet spot for me.

If you’re a book lover (or part of a book club) who’s ever wished the pages of your favorite romantasy novel could come to life, you’re not alone. Moms especially know the juggling act—kids, laundry, work—and sometimes the best escape is an evening with friends, wine, and a storybook-inspired setting right at home. Another amazing thing about shunning the screens and opening the books was realizing more things I had in common with the friends and family around me! So many love these books too and we love sharing our thoughts, or funny reels back and forth dedicated to these novels.

Why Host a Book Club Dinner Party at Home?

Hosting at home brings all the charm without the stress of reservations or the noise of a restaurant. You get to:

Set the mood exactly how you want it (fairy lights and all ✨)
Enjoy food, drinks, and decor tailored to your book club’s theme
Give your guests a cozy, intentional space to connect
Create memories that feel straight out of a novel

Whether your group meets monthly or just once in a while, a themed dinner party adds magic to your reading experience.

Step 1: Set the Scene with Decor

Cottagecore charm is all about layers. Start by bringing in soft greenery, fairy lights, and cozy textures. For my setup, I used:

Stacked books wrapped in ribbon as centerpieces
Twinkle lights woven through vines overhead
Floral garlands and candles for a romantic glow
Gold chargers and pastel plates for an elegant table setting

Tip: Stick with a soft color palette (neutrals, blush, muted greens) for that whimsical, storybook vibe.

Step 2: Build a Bookish Tablescape

Your tablescape is the heart of the evening—it’s where guests gather, laugh, and dive into book talk. Here are a few musts:

Coordinated tableware: plates, napkins, and glassware that feel cohesive
Garlands or banners: drape book pages or themed printables along the walls or patio rails
Mason jars with fairy lights: they double as decor and lighting

The key is balancing simple with intentional. Even the smallest touches (like a bookmark at each place setting) make guests feel thought of.

Step 3: Add Whimsical Activities

Book club gatherings are already full of conversation, but sprinkling in a few themed activities adds fun and connection. Try:

A “Quote Guess” game—print quotes from your current read and see who can match them
Discussion cards to spark deeper conversations
DIY bookmarks or small favors for guests to take home
Include small sandwich boards with puns and humor connected to your favorite romantasy, like “This cake has more layers than Aelin’s plans..” 🤣

These small extras make your dinner party memorable—and keep guests talking long after the last page.

Step 4: Plan a Simple but Elevated Menu

No feast required! This is about cozy indulgence, not hours in the kitchen. Think of foods that feel a little fancy but are easy to prep.

Charcuterie board with cheeses, meats, and fruit
A signature cocktail or mocktail—bonus if you name it after a character or magical element!
Sweet treats like cupcakes or cookies topped with edible flowers

Pro tip: Keep the menu self-serve so you can relax and enjoy the evening too.

Step 5: Don’t Forget Cozy Touches

Finally, add those elements that turn a backyard dinner into a night to remember:

Extra candles as the sun sets 🌙
Pillows and throws for a comfortable, linger-longer vibe
A background playlist—soft instrumentals or cinematic scores keep it immersive without overpowering conversation

It’s these little details that transform a regular dinner into something your guests will talk about for months.

Shop the Look

Everything I used to create this romantasy-inspired book club dinner party! From fairy lights to floral garlands, it’s a one-stop shop for anyone wanting to host a themed party at home without breaking the bank.

Final Thoughts

Hosting a Book Club Dinner Party in your backyard is simpler than you think. With the right decor, a cozy menu, and thoughtful touches, you can create a storybook setting that feels straight out of your favorite novel—without needing a castle, a dragon, or even a babysitter.

So grab your friends, light the candles, pour the wine, and let the adventure begin right at home.