Stephanie Booth Shafran’s Guide to an Eventful Holiday Season

The historic Roundhouse, built in 1939 and situated partway up Bald Mountain at Sun Valley Resort, is the site of a much anticipated annual gathering orchestrated by celebrated hostess Stephanie Shafran. | Photo: Dev Khalsa

It is no small matter to earn recognition as a top hostess in Los Angeles. It’s a distinction that goes beyond sophisticated decor, clever themes and a flair for drama. Events must be flawlessly executed while revealing something about the hostess and guests, tying them together in a unique way. They have to be original and heartfelt, celebratory and soulful, interesting without coming across as too try-hard. And they must express an incomparable sense of style while still exuding warmth and welcome.

When Stephanie Booth Shafran sends an invitation, people clear their schedules. Shafran grew up in L.A., where her parents frequently entertained at home. In her 20s, she worked in interior design, an experience that helped hone her eye and style. Her first book, You’re Invited: Classic, Elegant Entertaining, was published in 2020; a second book is in the works.

Shafran is a part-time Sun Valley resident and author of You’re Invited: Classic, Elegant Entertaining. Postcard-perfect in winter, the resort’s retro charm has captivated Shafran and her husband, Steve, their entire lives. | Photo: Dev Khalsa

Shafran’s events range from intimate celebrations of milestones like birthdays to glittering fundraisers. And while she loves to create original events, she cherishes the traditions created by parties that are repeated—and eagerly anticipated—each year, including her outdoor summertime soiree and the holiday gathering she and her husband, Steve, host at Sun Valley’s historic Roundhouse.

Sun Valley has long held a special place in their hearts. They had each grown up spending time in Sun Valley, and it was the site of their first date. Now it is their residence in summer, fall and part of ski season. Since 2012, when they married and blended their families (seven children, whose numbers have expanded with partners and grandchildren), Idaho has become not just their half-time home but also the repository for their family memories.

Photo: Dev Khalsa

The tradition of the Roundhouse Party started in 2011. It always takes place in the moment of calm between Christmas and New Year’s and is held in the iconic octagonal log building, built in 1939 and located halfway up Bald Mountain. “The Roundhouse has the authentic charm of Old Sun Valley,” Shafran explains.

“It’s elegant but rustic. It has a central stone fireplace to warm all parts of the building and windows capturing 360-degree views. People love taking the gondola up at night with blankets and a hot toddy. They also love the traditional format: cocktails and a seated dinner beginning with cheese fondue followed by a three-course meal.”

Shafran Margaritas, served every year, make merry with holiday colors, floating cranberries and sprigs of fresh thyme. | Photo: Dev Khalsa

After 13 years, she says the key is balancing expected traditions with new touches that make it feel fresh. Some details—the format, the welcome toast, the legendary Shafran Margaritas—are consistent. Sometimes a new detail becomes part of the tradition; now, rather than following a seating plan, upon arrival guests select a playing card from a bowl to find their place. (“There’s a magic to the spontaneity of it, and to letting the spirit of the community unfold.”)

The printed designs, decor and menu vary each year. Last year’s event leaned classical, with red plaid tablecloths, gold-rimmed chargers, menu cards bordered in red plaid, red votives and water glasses, and greenery dotted with red berries. The robust aesthetic works well in the space, with its heavy log beams and vintage black-and-white photographs.

An open bar makes for a convivial gathering. | Photo: Dev Khalsa

For Shafran, entertaining is a way of giving back to family and friends, celebrating the day-to-day and carving out moments of togetherness in an all too busy world. “I create the setting,” she says, “but at end of the day it’s about energy, spirit and laughter.”

Shafran’s parties benefit from long-term relationships with vendors.“Having a strong creative team you trust who can help with the vision really contributes to a party’s success. I’m so grateful in such a small town to have such talented people to work with.” | Photo: Dev Khalsa

Foolproof Recipe

Whether you’re throwing a small or large gathering, says style leader Step­hanie Booth Shafran, it is the host and hostess who set the tone through their enthusiasm and
engagement with their guests. “I think also it’s really important to be authentic to who you are and what your style is,” she adds. Being yourself, however, means not being distracted or stressed, and that takes some advance planning and organization.

Photo: Dev Khalsa

Shafran’s Tips on Stress-Free Entertaining

• Plan as far in advance as you can. Write a checklist and review the details as the date and time approaches to minimize your stress.
• Strive to have everything ready an hour before so you can relax, have a cocktail and enjoy the event.
• If something’s not perfect—someone doesn’t show up, you forget to light candles or a dish burns—just relax. If the hostess is relaxed, the guests will be relaxed.

Table settings embrace a traditional holiday theme with cheerful plaid, red pillar candles and boughs of evergreen. Shafran works with Yellow House Floral to design the floral arrangements. | Photo: Dev Khalsa

“Over the years, I’ve learned that parties aren’t about perfection,” Shafran says. “I’ve made my share of mistakes, but the more I entertained, the more I gained confidence and learned that snafus are what bring humor and authenticity to the moment. Events are a gift—both from your guests, who take the time to show up for you, and for them, in the form of a special experience.”

The Roundhouse is decorated with vintage ski posters and black-and-white photographs hearkening back to the resort’s glamorous beginnings. | Photo: Dev Khalsa

Peppermint-striped glassware and embroidered holiday cocktail napkins reinforce the holiday theme. | Photo: Dev Khalsa

The Roundhouse is reached by gondola and a series of steep steps, the journey making the destination all the more of a distinctive experience. | Photo: Dev Khalsa