A Beginner’s Guide to Being the Best Host

Whether it’s a big party or an intimate gathering with a few friends, as the host, you have the biggest role in this dining experience.

I’m sure you know the phrase, “hostess with the mostest.” Are you trying to reach that goal? Provide your friends and family with a great time with this guide to being the best host.

Food Choices

If you’re not familiar with everyone’s eating habits, find out. While sending out invitations, you can ask about allergies or eating restrictions. You don’t want a guest to be left hungry.

Kid Friendly

If you are expecting kids, include kid-friendly food items on your menu. Also, have a section of your house dedicated to the children with activities that will keep them away from intruding on the adults.

Alcoholic Beverages

You want your guests to feel at ease. Offering alcoholic beverages is a great way to achieve this. Have a few options for them to choose from. I would suggest beer, wine, and a batched cocktail that’s quick and easy to pour and garnish.

To help your guests feel even more relaxed you should actually walk over to them offering drinks. Sometimes guests are shy and don’t want to be the first ones at the bar. Display great hospitality and get them drunk.

Accept Help

There is normally going to be that one sincere friend who will insist on helping, even though you want everyone to enjoy themselves. If you’re overwhelmed accept the help.

Mingle with Guests

Don’t forget your guests came to see you. Take time out to greet them and hold an actual conversation. Try to reach everyone; you got this!

Menu

When deciding on your food choices for the evening, make sure you choose a dish that doesn’t need babysitting, like constant stirring or reheating. You won’t have time to watch the food closely. Stick with dishes you are good at. This isn’t the time for experimenting.

Good Music

No matter the event, music is important to have playing in the background. It will create a soothing vibe for all of your guests. Hit up those pre-made Spotify playlists!

Keep Calm

Things might not run perfectly, but they rarely do for any host. If you get frazzled and anxious it will rub off on the atmosphere and your guests will sense it. Keep your cool.

Family-Style Meals

These are very easy to maintain for a host. Pre-cut and pre-wash any toppings or extras and allow your guests to fix their own plate. Make sure you prepare plenty of extras. Better safe than sorry when it comes to enough food. Any leftovers can always be given away for guests to take home or eaten by you the next day.

Excessive Cleaning

Don’t spend too much time cleaning while the party is going on. Cleaning can sometimes send a signal that it’s time to go. It’s perfectly fine to manage cleanliness during the party. However, don’t Clorox countertops, sweep or run the vacuum while guests are still trying to enjoy themselves.

Have a Great Dessert

This is the final touch that will send guests home happy and full!