Entertaining is an act of love. It’s about welcoming people into your space, making them feel special, and creating an evening they’ll remember. With a little planning, you can host effortlessly and truly enjoy yourself in the process. Here are my personal tips for setting the perfect stage for your next gathering.
1. Welcome Your Guests in Style
When guests walk through the door, greet them with a cocktail. It sets the tone and immediately makes people feel cared for. If you’re serving Italian for dinner, whip up an Aperol Spritz or Negroni Spagliato. I always have a backup pitcher ready in the fridge—trust me, the first round disappears faster than you think!
Just as important as the drinks is creating a welcoming entry space. Clear out your closet or designate a spot (like the guest room bed) for coats and bags. It’s these small details that make people feel at ease.
2. Set the Mood with Music
Music is the soul of a gathering. Tailor your playlist to the cuisine or vibe of the evening. Italian night? An Italian playlist pairs beautifully with your Negroni. Hosting a cozy winter dinner? Something jazz-inspired works wonders. It’s all about creating an atmosphere where people can relax and connect. I have several playlists to choose from on my Spotify profile, just search for Jonathon Hawes!
3. The Often-Overlooked Spaces
Let’s talk about the washroom. Yes, really. Light a fabulous candle, and if you can, have soft music playing. It’s thoughtful, and let’s face it—everyone appreciates a little ambiance during their private moments. Clean the shower, yes, even if you have the curtain closed… just in case you have extra-nosy guests!
4. Drinks: Beyond the Welcome Cocktail
Consider setting up a bar station—whether it’s your kitchen island or a sideboard—with a variety of spirits, liqueurs, an ice bucket, sliced citrus, and fresh herbs (mint in a julep glass is always cute!). This encourages guests to help themselves, which takes the pressure off you. I want people to feel comfortable enough to pour another drink without asking.
5. Snacks: The Essential Cheese Board
A good gathering begins with nibbles, and I always seem to gravitate towards a cheese board, among other things. My cheese board staples include:
- A wedge of Château de Bourgogne (rich and creamy)
- A hard cheese like Comté or a sharp English cheddar
- Either a goat cheese or a blue cheese for variety
- Fresh, crunchy green grapes and other seasonal accompaniments
- Your favourite crackers
Want more on creating the perfect board? Check out my blog for a step-by-step guide.
6. Dinner: Planning and Presentation
Set the table the night before or the morning of your dinner party—trust me, you’ll thank yourself later. Use what you have but make it special: fresh flowers, votive candles, beautiful stemware, and linen napkins. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just thoughtful! If you don’t have linen napkins, hunny, it’s time to get yourself some, and surprise surprise, you can shop our JH Home Goods collection!
Lighting is key: turn off the overheads and let lamps and candles do the work. You’re aiming for warm and inviting, not a blackout from a major power outage! And don’t forget to clean the house! I’ve learned the hard way—once cramming clutter into a guest room, only for guests to use it for their coats (lesson learned).
Pro tip: Keep mineral and sparkling water on hand, served in an ice bucket. It’s an inexpensive touch that adds elegance.
7. Cook Smart
Choose a menu that’s mostly done ahead of time. Something you can pop in the oven or leave simmering on the stove means you won’t be stuck in the kitchen while everyone else is having fun. I’ve been there—frantically cooking while guests are laughing in the living room. Plan ahead so you can enjoy the evening, too. Think Boeuf Bourguignon and crusty bread, or a Filet of Beef that was seared ahead of time and is in the oven when guests arrive, giving you flexibility and more time to spend with your guests. Nothing is more glamorous than slicing a perfectly cooked (and rested) filet of beef in front of hungry guests… trust me (oh, and make sure your carving knife is sharp!).
8. Dessert: The Grand Finale
I adore dessert—no surprise, given I own a bakery. If you’re serving something rich for dinner, go “lighter” with panna cotta or pavlova. For a lighter main, like if you’re serving fish for example, indulge a little extra with a decadent chocolate cake, or something along those lines. A post-dessert drink like port or a dessert wine is a charming touch, too. It’s about balance, thoughtfulness, and giving people a sweet note to end the meal.
9. Parting Gifts and Final Thoughts
Why not send guests home with a little something? Biscotti baked earlier in the week or a small container of leftovers shows you care. And if you’re coming to mine for dinner—don’t drive. I want you to enjoy yourself fully if you know what I mean! Another trick that I love is having disposable takeaway containers at the ready for those leftovers… no need to stress about getting your tupperware back etc etc etc.
- Ambiance is everything: The right music, lighting, and scents create the mood.
- Plan ahead: Do as much as you can in advance so you’re relaxed when guests arrive.
- Make guests feel at home: No one should have to ask for a thing!
- Enjoy yourself: If you’re having fun, everyone else will too; trust me.
