Hosting Season: A Gentle Guide to Gathering with Intention.
It’s finally the hosting season!
My favorite time of the year to gather, savor and celebrate the season with family and friends. There’s such joy in creating a magical space to those we love, and the memories made around the table. This is the magic of holiday hosting- but getting there isn’t always as effortless as it seems. And after how many years of hosting and setting the table, I’ve learned that it isn’t about perfection. It’s about creating an environment where memories can flourish, and connections can deepen. In the spirit of the season, sharing some of my tips for your next gathering to make it less stressful and more intentional.
Start with the right mindset. - as much as I love a beautiful tablescape or Michelin-star dining experience, reminding myself that my guest is coming for connection, comfort and celebration.
The power of preparation - the best hosts know that the real work happens long before the first guest arrives. My golden rule: anything can be done ahead of time, should be done ahead of time. I normally used a two-week timeline:
2 weeks before (draft the menu) 1 week before (deep clean spaces, create my dinner Spotify playlist, I personally like setting the mood with music) 1 day before (shop perishables, set the table).
The art of delegation - when guests ask what they can bring, give them specific suggestions. It helps make your job easier.
When things go wrong (and they will)- the food is taking longer than expected, a guest spilled red wine on your carpet. These moments are inevitable, but it doesn’t have to ruin the party. Remember your reactions sets the tone- if you can laugh it off and pivot gracefully, your guest will take the lead.
The secret ingredient (Presence)- the most important hosting skill isn’t your cooking or decorative prowess- it’s your capacity to be present with your guests. This means doing enough preparation that you are not stuck in the kitchen and not exhausted before the party begins.
Real Secret: The Host Sets the Mood. Your energy travels faster than words. If you look stressed, your guest will notice it right away.
Remember that your home doesn’t need to be perfect, your food doesn’t need to be worthy of a cooking show. What matters is that you’re creating an environment where people feel welcomed, comfortable and celebrated.
As we enter the season of gatherings, may your table be a place of warmth, where beauty isn't staged, but lived. So, let's take a deep breath, pour yourself a glass of whatever you are serving, and remember: the best gatherings aren’t about impressing people- they’re about bringing them together.
And if you need pieces to help set the scene, the Tableau Collection was curated exactly for these moments.
Happy Hosting!
xDee