This June, ditch the usual “bring a bottle of wine” gathering and try something a little sweeter—literally. A BYOPie party is the perfect way to celebrate the season, entertain at home, and finally answer that age-old question: “Can I bring anything?” Yes. Your favorite pie!
Whether it’s your grandmother’s secret recipe, a Pinterest project you've been dying to try, or a flaky masterpiece you picked up at the local farmer’s market, every guest brings a pie to serve and share. It’s a casual, creative, and crowd-pleasing way to gather—and bonus, you don’t have to cook the whole meal yourself.
Start preparing for the event by sending an invite that sets the tone. You can send a casual text, create a group chat, or go full-on Pinterest with printable invites, let your guests know the theme is pie-forward and fun.
Include details like date, time, address, and a little note: “Bring a
pie to serve and a recipe to swap!” The decor should reflect the season! Consider using summer florals, gingham table runners, and abundant sunlight. Set up a pie bar or dessert table with labeled stands and small name cards, allowing guests to write down the name of their pie and who brought it. Provide a stack of small plates and forks, and you’re all set!
If you're hosting outdoors, string lights or lanterns add a little twinkle, while citronella candles keep uninvited bugs at bay. Serve drinks that complement the sweet spread like sparkling water, iced coffee, rosé, or sweet tea. If indoors, a bouquet of sunflowers and a fresh pitcher of
lemonade (and any other drink of choice) works too. You can also balance the sweets with a few light snacks like cheese and crackers, nuts, or fruit skewers.
As guests arrive, invite them to place their pies on the designated table and put their printed recipes in a labeled basket or display area. Make sure to indicate dietary preferences or allergies, noting if a pie is gluten-free, vegan, nut-free, etc. (Tip: Encourage guests to bring several printed copies of their recipes or email them in advance so you can print and prepare them.) You can even provide cute index cards or printable templates to simplify this process.
After the meal, consider hosting a "Vote for Favorites" activity! Set up fun categories such as “Flakiest Crust,” “Most Unexpected Flavor, or “Best Presentation.” At the end of the evening, allow guests to browse the recipe area and take home their favorites as small party favors.
Provide boxes or takeout containers so guests can carry home a slice or two.
A BYOPie party is the ultimate way to bring people together with little hosting stress, just good company and great dessert. Whether you’re baking, buying, or just showing up with a smile and a slice, everyone leaves with full hearts and fuller stomachs.
