10 Tips for Holiday and Everyday Hosting
Hosting friends and family in your home can be one of the greatest joys of homeownership. It’s the chance to create memories, share laughter, and gather the people you care about most in a space that’s uniquely yours. But great hosting doesn’t happen by accident—it’s a skill that combines thoughtful preparation with smart design. Whether you’re throwing a casual game night, hosting a formal holiday dinner, or entertaining last-minute guests, a home that’s ready to welcome makes the experience smoother and far more enjoyable for everyone—especially you.
Here are our top tips to make your house not only host-friendly but also the kind of place where guests can relax and truly feel at home.
Tip 1: Create a Dedicated Hosting Cabinet
A well-stocked hosting cabinet is a game-changer. By storing all your entertaining essentials in one place, you’ll save time, reduce stress, and ensure you’re always prepared to serve with style. Bonus: Guests can easily help themselves without searching through private spaces.
Consider including:
• Glassware (water, wine, cocktail)
• Matching plates, bowls, and serving platters
• Serving utensils and tongs
• Paper and cloth napkins, plus tablecloths
• Vases for fresh flowers
Pro Tip: Choose neutral tones for your serveware so they’re versatile for any occasion or theme.
Tip 2: Install a Coat Rack or Hooks
Set the tone for hospitality the moment your guests walk in by providing an easy spot for coats, bags, and scarves. This thoughtful detail helps streamline arrivals and transitions guests quickly from the front door to drinks and conversation.
For smaller spaces, look for wall-mounted hooks or collapsible coat racks that can be tucked away when not in use.
Tip 3: Keep Common Areas Guest-Ready
Your living room, dining space, and kitchen are the heart of any gathering, so keeping them clean and organized is key. It doesn’t need to feel overwhelming—small habits go a long way:
• Tuck away personal items like mail, shoes, or electronics.
• Clear countertops and side tables.
• Stock the guest bathroom with essentials (hand soap, fresh towels, and extra toilet paper).
With a bit of prep work, you’ll create a space where guests can relax without distraction.
Tip 4: Invest in Flexible Seating
Furniture that works for you and your guests is a must-have. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party for eight or a spontaneous gathering of 20, adaptable seating options ensure everyone has a spot.
Here’s what to keep on hand:
• Padded folding chairs for quick setups
• An expandable dining table for larger meals
• Ottomans or poufs for easy, movable seating
• Accent chairs that can double as living room or office seating
Tip 5: Designate a Kid-Friendly Zone
If you’re hosting families, a kid-friendly corner is a thoughtful touch that parents will appreciate. Create a space with board games, coloring books, soft toys, or a movie set-up to keep little ones entertained while adults mingle.
Pro Tip: Soft rugs and blankets can make this space feel cozy and safe.
Tip 6: Keep Hosting-Friendly Pantry Staples
Unexpected guests? No problem. A well-stocked pantry can save the day. Keep versatile snacks like crackers, nuts, and chocolates on hand, and stock your fridge with sparkling waters, wine, and local craft beers. You’ll always be ready to pull together a charcuterie board or a casual spread in minutes.
Tip 7: Prepare for Outdoor Hosting
Utah’s seasons provide plenty of opportunities for hosting outdoors. From crisp fall evenings to summer barbecues, make sure your patio or yard is guest-ready:
• Comfortable, weather-resistant outdoor furniture
• A fire pit or heater for cooler nights
• String lights for ambiance
• Bug-repellent candles or torches for summer gatherings
Your outdoor space can be just as inviting as your living room with the right setup.
Tip 8: Set the Mood with Lighting
Lighting transforms the atmosphere of any gathering. Soft, layered lighting makes spaces feel warm and welcoming, while harsh overhead lights can feel too sterile. Use a combination of:
• Dimmer switches for adjustable brightness
• Table and floor lamps to soften darker corners
• Candles for a cozy, intimate glow
Avoid bright overhead lights, especially if you plan on taking photos—ambient lighting is always more flattering.
Tip 9: Pay Attention to the Details
The smallest touches often make the biggest impression. Before guests arrive, consider adding these finishing details:
• Fresh flowers as a centerpiece or on side tables
• A sign or chalkboard with the event theme or menu
• Scented candles or diffusers in the guest bathroom
• A tray of drinks and small bites near the entryway
These thoughtful extras will make your guests feel cared for the moment they walk through the door.
Tip 10: Have a Cleanup Strategy
A little planning can make post-party cleanup manageable. Keep extra trash bags close to the bin, and designate a “drop zone” for used plates, glasses, and utensils. Encourage guests to help by placing items in one central spot—it’s a simple way to lighten the load.
Pro Tip: Start cleaning small things (like empty plates) throughout the event so you’re not overwhelmed when the party ends.
Hosting is about more than throwing a great event—it’s about creating moments of connection, joy, and belonging. With a little preparation, you can transform your home into a space where guests feel comfortable, cared for, and always welcome.
Whether you’re hosting for the holidays or planning a casual gathering with friends, these tips will ensure your home is ready for any occasion. So pour the drinks, set the mood, and enjoy the experience—after all, this is what homeownership is all about.
