Hospitality isn’t about what you have – it’s about who you are, how you carry yourself, and how you treat others. I don’t live in the nicest place, but I love having people over, and I love welcoming them to my space. I never do someting because of social convention or an idea that I should act a certain way. Formalities aside, I like to make people feel comfortable and happy so that my living space is a hangout spot instead of a place to just visit. 
Growing up in the Bay Area, I learned about the art of hospitality from so many cultures and families of different economic backgrounds. Whether you are hosting a catered event or small dinner party, here are some tips to help you become the perfect host or hostess:
1) As a host, you should make an effort to have a conversation with everyone at your event. Don’t just make small talk or smile at someone from across the room – have a real conversation. If they haven’t approached you, reach out to them because they may be feeling shy or uncomfortable. If a guest brings friends, talk to them too. Make everyone feel welcome and valued as part of the group. Regardless of your intentions, it’s easy to let someone feel like an outcast. When people feel welcome, they will have more fun. Set a warm tone for your event.
2) Do your best to accomodate everyone. If you have a vegetarian at your event, for example, prepare a few vegetarian dishes. Don’t baby your guests, but make sure that they are happy, having fun, and comfortable. It’s not a party unless everyone is having fun, and if everyone is having fun, your hard work and extra effort won’t go unnoticed.
3) Chill out. It’s your party, and you’ll cry if you want to, but honestly – stress and anger create nothing but bad times. Don’t let a foul mood set the tone of your event. Even if your main course explodes and your friend punches you in the face, handle tough situations with a smile. All catastrophes have solutions, and even if something goes wrong, the night can still be fun. Don’t ruin what isn’t broken.
4) Food. Make sure that there is plenty of food and drinks for everyone. If you can’t afford to host everybody, turn your event into a potluck. Nobody is going to mind bringing something small or perceive a potluck as tacky. In fact, people like contributing to a night’s worth of fun. There’s no excuse for skimping on food.
5) Leave the pretentious behind. Last summer, I attended a wedding with a strict dress code, and I was more than happy to go out and buy a new dress, but I was not happy about the obligatory gossiping. “I can’t believe so and so is wearing this color instead of that!” – Sheesh, who cares? They gave up their day and came to your wedding. Yes, it’s your event and people should respect your wishes, but lighten up a bit! After all, parties are supposed to be fun.
Image Source: flickr.com/photos/skenmy/528281656
See also:
- BBQ Party Etiquette: Basic Party Rules to Remember
- Entertaining Doesn’t Have To Be Fancy
- Learn How To Be a Bad Host, So You’ll Never Host Again
- Entertaining Guests? Make Room At Home Or At A Venue
- Halloween Party: Indoors or Outdoors?
- Man vs. Nature: Top 5 Outdoor Entertaining Hazards
- Winter Weather and Illness: When to Change Party Plans
- A Basic Guide To Properly Shoveling Snow
- Personalized Wedding Frames
About Ritika Puri
What a straightforward and relaxed attitude toward entertaining. Your blog on the simple rules of hospitality made me want to plan a party. Good, useful information. Thank you.