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How To Be A Good Host (And Guest)

Hosting and attending gatherings should feel like a joy, not a chore. Whether you're welcoming friends into your home or showing up as the perfect guest, the little details can make a big difference.


From curating the perfect playlist and accommodating dietary restrictions to having good ice on hand (yes, it matters!), we’ve rounded up tips to ensure you’re the kind of host everyone loves to visit and the kind of guest everyone loves to invite back.

 
Photo Credit: Dare To Be Vintage
Photo Credit: Dare To Be Vintage
 

  1. Never show up empty-handed

  2. Have a variety of beverages available

    • Do they drink alcohol? Do you know which type of wine they prefer? Have a variety of beverages — including N.A. options — on hand and ready to sip. Bonus points if you have good ice and ice for different purposes (big rock vs. crushed, etc.). During winter, a hot sip is always a nice touch! Batching cocktails is also a great option when hosting a large group ("just add a splash of club!").

  3. Any allergies or dietary restrictions?

    • Preferences are one thing, but if someone is actually allergic to something you’re serving at a close-knit gathering, it might be best to omit that ingredient altogether. Of course, if you’re serving Beef Wellington and your guest is vegetarian, that is also something you may want to clear up in advance.

  4. No one likes awkward silence

    • Play music. There’s nothing worse than showing up to someone’s house with the stark, awkward sound of silence in the background. Even if they’re your best friends and you can chat all night long, it's still nice to have some music rambling in the background. Select something that will suit the occasion best and that is not overly rowdy (of course, unless that’s your vibe).

  5. Make sure everyone is having a good time

    • Don’t be overbearing, but if you know there are a few people who don’t know each other or someone who seems timid to join the convo, do what you can to involve them. Put your hospitality cap on: Do they need a refill? Are they not sure where the bathroom is? Do they need a place to put their coat? If they’re not enjoying their drink, is there something else you can suggest? Unfortunately, in this case, you’re the host and not the guest, so it is partially your job to make sure everyone’s comfortable and enjoying themselves.

  6. Offer to help

    • As a guest in someone’s home, you should always offer to help the host however you can without being annoying. A lot of the time, they will politely say no, but this kind gesture goes a very long way. As a host, it can be a bit defeating when your guests conveniently turn a blind eye to all of the cleaning up you will endure after they leave. As the guest, make sure this work is seen!

  7. Dessert and coffee

    • If hosting a dinner, it’s always a nice touch to offer some sort of sweet treat and coffee/tea. This can be as simple as a bowl of berries — but something to signify that the dinner is over and you’re moving on. If you want to offer an after-dinner drink too, that’s always a nice touch.

  8. Send your guests home with leftovers (if you have them)

    • Keep a few disposable containers on hand for packing up to-go boxes for your guests. Was your friend gushing over those stuffed dates you made? Send her home with the rest of them!

  9. Relax

    • If guests arrive while you’re frazzled and not prepared, it will set off the entire mood. Make an effort to be ready by the time they arrive. If you’re in your own home, be comfortable — pour a glass of wine, play some music, put your phone away, and wear something you feel good in.

  10. Warm up your home

    • Ambiance is very important. No need for lights to be at full capacity or for the house to smell like dogs or athletic gear. Light some candles (always a nice touch for a powder room candle to be lit) and make your space welcoming.

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