Set the Table, Set the Tone: Hosting Tips

Whether you grew up around big family dinners or you’re stepping into hosting for the first time, inspiration is everything. No matter where you’re starting, one thing’s certain: finding inspiration makes all the difference.

Shaun spent her 20s and 30s in a small town where elevated entertaining wasn’t exactly the norm. She didn’t learn hosting by watching relatives or attending dinner parties. Instead, she found her muse in Martha Stewart—someone who made entertaining feel aspirational, yet attainable. Through that lens, she began to experiment, adapt, and make hosting her own.

The takeaway? Your inspiration might come from anywhere. A friend, a neighbor, a podcast, a Pinterest board—or even this blog. Once something sparks your curiosity, run with it. Create a folder, start a mood board, screenshot ideas. Inspiration is fuel and you can find it all around.

We’ve all experienced it: You’re in the kitchen juggling three dishes, guests are arriving, and suddenly you’re sweating. Meghan and Shaun’s piece of advice? Prep as much as possible before your guests walk through the door.

They noticed early on that the kitchen often becomes the unofficial gathering zone. So if you’re trying to last minute put all the pieces together, it becomes a recipe for stress. Their go-to solution: prep everything the night before, cook dishes that can be reheated, and set the table early.

Hosting hack: Be ready before the doorbell rings—so you can sip and savor with your guests.

When you plan ahead, you’re not just saving time—you’re creating space to connect, relax, and actually enjoy the evening. That’s the energy guests remember.

One of the best parts of hosting? You get to make the rules.

Shaun recommends brainstorming early to bring your vision to life. That doesn’t mean locking yourself into a rigid plan—it means giving yourself space to build out the details in a way that feels intentional.

Think:

• What’s the vibe or theme?
  
  

• What’s on the playlist?
  
  

• Will the drinks match the color palette?
  
  

• What food pairs well with the energy you want to create?
  
  

Maybe you're going for a moody, candlelit evening with deep reds and jazz. Or maybe it’s a daytime picnic vibe with citrus spritzes and fresh florals. Whether it’s rustic, elegant, maximalist, or cozy—lean into what feels you.

You don’t need an excuse to gather. Paper plates or wedding china—either way, just do it. Hosting doesn’t need to be perfect to be meaningful.

Not sure where to begin? Start small:

• Host a dessert night with store-bought sweets and homemade drinks

• Girls night in with face masks and comfy clothes

• Grab some premade dough or flatbreads and offer a spread of toppings for a DIY pizza night

Find what feels good and build from there. The more you gather people around your table—whatever that table looks like—the more confidence you’ll gain, and the more joy you’ll find in welcoming people into your space.

Hosting doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It’s an opportunity to create something uniquely yours—a reflection of your style, energy, and the kind of experience you want to share. Whether it’s a laid-back wine night or a candlelit dinner party, it’s less about perfection and more about presence. Find your inspiration, no matter how big or small. Prep with intention so you can be fully in the moment. Add a little magic—something unexpected, thoughtful, or simply fun. Make it personal, and let your personality shine through in the details.

And most of all, don’t be afraid to begin—even if the plates don’t match. You don’t need an excuse to gather, just the willingness to open your door and make people feel welcome.

At the end of the day, it’s not about flawless execution. It’s about creating a space where you can truly enjoy the company of your guests, whatever that looks like for you. The goal isn’t a picture-perfect evening—it’s connection, warmth, and those little moments of joy your guests will remember. Thoughtfulness beats perfection every time.

So go ahead—light the candles, pour the drinks, and press play on your favorite playlist. Your next dinner party starts with a little planning, a whole lot of heart, and these hosting tips to support. You’ve got this—and your guests will feel it.