Brie Larson and Courtney McBroom Celebrate New Cookbook “Party People” at Hotel Saint Cecilia

Despite dreary weather on Friday, Jan. 23, nothing could stop the celebration at Hotel Saint Cecilia, where Oscar-winning actor Brie Larson and chef Courtney McBroom (former Culinary Director of Milk Bar) welcomed guests for an intimate evening honoring their new cookbook, “Party People.”

Set in the hotel’s private courtyard, the night unfolded with cocktails, bites, and lively conversation inspired by the book’s ethos of joyful, unfussy entertaining. Blending recipes with personal stories, hosting tips, and creative inspiration, “Party People: A Cookbook for Creative Celebrations” encourages readers to make hosting feel approachable and fun.

Guests mingled, met the authors, and raised glasses to the simple pleasure of coming together, proving that even a rainy evening couldn’t dampen the spirit of the night. Larson and McBroom hosted a little Q&A session giving a bit of insight into their friendship and interest in publishing this book.

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Darren and Molly Davidson (photo by Jasmine Porter)

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Cristina and Teresa Fisher (photo by Jasmine Porter)

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Amanda Bressner and Coco Peterson (photo by Jasmine Porter)

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Jill Scharrenberg and Meredith Heydari (photo by Jasmine Porter)

On the menu

Guests snacked on Doritos Canapés, Mushroom Pâté, Pizza Pockets, Miso Deviled Eggs, Roast Beef Sliders, and Texas Sheet Cake, while sipping Party People Punch and Tex-Mex Martinis.

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Miso Deviled Eggs (photo by Jasmine Porter)

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Mushroom Pâté (photo by Jasmine Porter)

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Staying cozy inside Hotel Saint Cecilia during the “Party People” book launch. (photo by Jasmine Porter)

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The crowd at Hotel Saint Cecilia had a great time at the “Party People” book launch. (photo by Jasmine Porter)

A playful cookbook

Each attendee received a signed copy of “Party People,” which is an experience-driven cookbook rooted in fun entertaining. Featuring 100 recipes and party ideas for every kind of gathering — from themed dinner parties to casual game nights — the book blends playful dishes like Cheesy Jenga Bread and French Onion Ramen Dip with cocktails, menus and serves as a complete hosting guide, offering tips on activities, music, and setting the mood from start to finish. With an emphasis on accessibility over perfection, Larson and McBroom champion the idea that food tastes best when shared, encouraging readers to celebrate everything from milestone moments to spontaneous hangouts by focusing on the joy of the experience itself.

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