People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. -Maya Angelou
This past weekend I had the pleasure of decorating and attending a baby shower where I was asked for pointer’s on how to be a good hostess. I immediately began spouting out things I thought would be useful and would make guests feel welcomed from my point of view.
Being a great hostess is such an ART and some of the best are so because of their personality and not necessarily because of a specific skill. I love the saying that “anything done with love is done well” and that’s key. Its not about the snazziest venue or the most expensive meal, the finest china, or the sleekest decor’. It’s the care put into making guests feel at home.
I remember my friend Lynn invited George and I over for a casual dinner and a movie. She made dinner, I made dessert and we ate and laughed. When it was time for the movie, she served us coffee on the most comfortable couch and tucked us in with a cozy blanket. I was completely smitten at the level of care she put into making us feel welcome. This is what its all about. When I think of hosting, I channel moments like that and remember how it made me feel. So today I am sharing with you a few tips that are consistent throughout my hosting ventures and are essential to a pleasant guest experience.
Do your Prep Work
Whether you’re hosting at your home or a venue its best to get acquainted with the space and prepare it for guests. This includes making every area that guests will use more user-friendly. Restrooms should be cleaned and well stocked with extra tissue, soap, and hand towels. Any breakables or valuables should be removed from the party area. Any food that is not meant for guests should be put away in advance. You get my drift? The idea here is to eliminate as much worry as you possibly can.
You also want to prepare yourself. Take your time to choose an outfit that makes you feel good and confident. Begin preparations early enough in advance so that you’re not rushing and can pause for a bit to take care of you. The better you feel the better you will treat your guests.
2. Smile
Plain and simple. Smile, greet, hug, and tell your guests you’re glad to see them. Be pleasant and make them want to be there. I tell you, the quickest way to make me leave is to act as if you don’t want to be bothered. People have choices and they chose you. Make it count.
3. Anticipate Guest Needs - Read the Room
In short, this is just thinking through your event and anticipating any needs for food, drinks, fun and departure to make everything readily accessible for guests. For example, if you are serving steak, be sure to provide knives, steak sauce, and a sturdy plate - you can’t cut steak on a paper plate. Coddle your guests, offer drinks and nibbles while they wait for dinner. You happen to see someone in the corner alone, reading the room will prompt you to go engage that person and make an effort to bring them into the larger group. Think of ice breakers or clever ways to keep conversation and laughs flowing.
4. Give your Guests an Idea of What to Expect
Simply put, this is letting guests know how the night will flow. It’s like having a “program” even if its not written. What you want to avoid is guests sitting and waiting for an eternity before they know when dinner will be served or when we’ll get to a specific activity they are interested in. It can be a simple welcome followed by stating that we will play one game, say grace and then dinner is served. That way they don’t have to wonder when do we eat or even better, when can I sneak out. Let’s touch on how to treat a departure. Saying goodbye should be as warm and guilt-free as the hello. Thank them and don’t make them feel guilty when they have to leave. This will guarantee people will want to return.
5. Be a part of the Party
The best way to make your guests feel comfortable is to have fun yourself! If you’re constantly serving everyone and not enjoying your own event, your guests can sense that. Be sure you have an opportunity to join the party, play the games, and connect with your guests. Remember, they’re there to spend time with you and if you’re always occupied that will feel a bit awkward for your guests. Slow down and enjoy the party, after all its a PARTY!
Okay now that I’m climbing down from my soapbox, I hope this was useful for you. These tips can elevate your guest experience no matter how big or small the event. As a hostess be sure the message you’re sending is the right message, one that says you’re a Hostess with the Mostess. Thank you for listening!
Until next time!
-K
