Elevate Your Hosting Game: Simple Tips For Guests

Hosting guests can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Whether it's a dinner party, a casual get-together, or a special occasion, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere is key to ensuring a memorable experience for your guests. I want to share with you my go-to tips for hosting guests, focusing on simple yet effective ideas that will make your guests feel at home. So let's dive in.

We Love Easy Appetizers 

When hosting guests, having a selection of appetizers is a must.

It sets the tone for the evening and gives your guests something to nibble while they mingle. One of my favorite go-to appetizers is a meat and cheese tray. It's simple to put together and always a crowd-pleaser. I like to use summer sausage and cube cheddar, Colby Jack, or Swiss cheese for a color variance. Adding purple or green grapes and a variety of crackers completes the tray.​

" I like to use a meat and cheese tray. I like to take summer sausage and cut it into slices and then cut it into fourths. And then I like to cube either cheddar, medium cheddar, or sharp cheddar cheese." - Claire

Another quick and easy appetizer option is chips and salsa. I always do mild salsa and if you want to add a unique twist to your appetizer spread, consider making popcorn seasoned with Alpine Touch or Johnny's Seasoning salt. This is SO simple and a total crowd-pleaser.

Who doesn’t love desserts?

Now, on to desserts. Having a variety of sweet treats is a great way to up your game. Try apple slices with a smear of cream cheese and a drizzle of caramel on top. It's a simple yet elegant combination that requires only three ingredients. Sprinkle a little cinnamon on top to elevate the vibe even more.

If you're looking for a sweet and savory appetizer that will impress your guests, bacon-wrapped dates are a fantastic choice. Simply wrap a date with a strip of bacon, secure it with a toothpick, and sprinkle some brown sugar on top. Bake it in the oven until the bacon is crispy and the brown sugar has melted. The combination of flavors is literally HEAVEN.

Bevi Choices For Everyone

Drinks are key. While it's essential to have a variety of options, it's also important to keep it simple. In my experience, having a few staple choices is totally enough to cater to everyone.

Starting with non-alcoholic options, I always make sure to have bottled water on hand. It's a safe and easy choice that allows guests to grab a refreshing drink without any hassle. For wine lovers, I recommend having a favorite white wine, such as Chardonnay, and a favorite red wine, like a red blend. These two options cover a wide range of tastes and provide guests with a choice between white or red wine.

For beer enthusiasts, stocking the fridge with a variety of options is a must. From IPAs to seasonal favorites like Bushlight peaches or apples, Coors Light, or Corona, having a range of choices ensures that there's something for everyone. And if you opt for Corona, don't forget to add a lime for that extra touch.

​Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere

​While food and drinks are essential components of hosting guests, creating a welcoming atmosphere goes beyond what's on the menu. It's about ensuring that your guests feel comfortable and at ease in your home. Here are a few tips to help you achieve that:

Cleanliness is key:

Make sure to clean the bathroom thoroughly, paying special attention to the toilet and floors. Stock it with clean hand towels or napkins. Tidy up your entryway by removing excess shoes and organizing the coat area. These small touches make a big difference in creating a presentable and inviting space.

• Engage with your guests: Hosting a gathering is not just about providing food and drinks; it's about creating an enjoyable experience for everyone. Encourage conversation by having food and drinks readily available. This breaks the ice and gives guests something to talk about. Be open to discussing your prepared dishes and share your recipes if they ask. This simple act can spark interesting conversations and make your guests feel more connected.

"People want to have people over, but they're like, oh my gosh, I don't know what to talk about. Or I don't know what to do. Having food, and a drink in hand, people are able to talk about it or say, oh my gosh, how'd you make this app? It's just a good icebreaker and your house will smell good." - Claire

• Set the mood: Enhance the ambiance of your home by lighting a scented candle or using a fragrance diffuser. This not only adds a pleasant aroma but also creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Choose a scent that is not overpowering and complements the overall vibe of your gathering. Additionally, consider playing soft background music to create a relaxing and enjoyable environment.

A Recipe for Hosting Success

Hosting guests doesn't have to be scary or overwhelming. Remember to pay attention to the small details, such as cleanliness and ambiance, as they can make a significant impact on your guests' comfort. 

So go ahead, invite your friends and loved ones over, and enjoy the pleasure of hosting with confidence

Happy Hosting!