Kathy Hilton Shares Her Secrets for Hosting the Perfect Outdoor Party

Nikol SlatinskaShopping Writer, Home
Nikol SlatinskaShopping Writer, Home
In my role at Apartment Therapy, I'm most passionate about making my home look beautiful and organized and helping our readers do the same — often at a discount. Although I cover my fair share of newsy pieces, my work focuses on long-form service articles that help our audience…read more
published May 19, 2025
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Headshot of Kathy Hilton on graphic background
Credit: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

If you’re a longtime fan of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills like I am, you’ll know what I mean when I say that every appearance Kathy Hilton makes on the show is a delight — and I’m not just talking about her hilarious one-liners. As a home decor enthusiast, I always perk up a bit when the socialite hosts one of her elaborate events. Whether Hilton is throwing her famous Christmas party or a Capri-themed outdoor dinner, you can always expect every detail to be on-point.

When I got the chance to talk to Hilton at QVC’s Super Brand Day event in collaboration with TikTok, I asked her about her secrets to success when it comes to throwing the perfect party. The Q50 ambassador did not disappoint; she elaborated on her tips for outdoor entertaining and what she likes to shop on QVC. To get all the intel, just keep reading!

Kathy Hilton’s Favorite Outdoor Entertaining Items

With summer around the corner, outdoor entertaining is top of mind. Hilton’s favorite tactic? Bringing the indoors out. She has a rug collaboration with her daughter, Nicky Hilton Rothschild, at Ruggable, and she says she brings the rugs onto her patio. That, coupled with her outdoor fireplace, makes for the ultimate cozy vibe.

The Flora rug from The Hiltons collab would work wonderfully for outdoor spaces because of its large-scale floral motif. Plus, its flatwoven material is water-resistant and machine-washable, so if it gets rained or spilled on, it’s no headache.

Not only does Hilton always include fresh flowers at her gatherings, but the lemon trees in her backyard also serve as beautiful natural decor in more ways than one.

“On some of the tables, I’ll put a big bowl of limes, lemons, you know, keeping it really pretty,” Hilton says. QVC’s serveware selection has you covered in this department, too. Check out this eye-catching pedestal bowl, which can turn any type of produce into a centerpiece. Lenox also has stunning serveware, like this French perle scallop bowl.

What’s more, Hilton recommends keeping a big basket nearby for guests’ shawls. This faux-rattan set will not only prevent jackets, cardigans, and other coverings from cluttering your seating, but it’ll also add some nice visual texture to your patio.

Although Hilton compares being a host to being “like a manager in a ballroom,” the process of setting everything up is her favorite part. “I enjoy getting the party ready more than the party itself,” she says. Even if you don’t have an outdoor area as grand as Hilton’s, your decor can feel just as opulent and inviting with these items.

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