Some of the loveliest gatherings are not the most elaborate. They are the ones where people walk in and immediately feel expected: a table set with care, something nice to drink, a meal that does not require the host to disappear into the kitchen, soft music playing in the background and enough margin for everyone to stay a little longer.
In order to be ready to host at any given time, I like to keep my a few things ready at any point in time. I make sure I always have a clean tablecloth (or two), placemats, fresh flowers or greenery from my garden in a vase and some fresh scented candles. This way, even if we’re simply ordering in pizza, we have a pretty presentation that says ‘I prepared for you.’ You do not need new pieces for every gathering. Pull out your favorite neutral linens, add a few taper candles, use seasonal fruit or greenery from the market or your garden, and let the table feel collected rather than overly matched. I also have this folding table and these folding chairs for when we need additional seating.
For the menu, choose food you can mostly make ahead. A big pot of soup, roast chicken, a beautiful salad, crusty bread and a simple dessert will always feel more generous than an intricate recipe that leaves you stressed. If guests offer to bring something, say yes! It can be a bottle of wine, a cheese, or a side. A gathering should feel like hospitality, not a performance.
The details that guests remember are often the smallest ones. Put on a playlist before the doorbell rings- I love turning on the Claire de Lune playlist on Spotify or anything instrumental. Light the candles just before people arrive. Set out a small bowl of something to snack on so no one is waiting awkwardly for dinner. I actually thrifted a handful of silver and crystal serving pieces and they make even the simplest appetizers look elevated. If you are hosting families, make space for children to play nearby and do not apologize for the real-life noise. A beautiful home can still be a lived-in home.
This fall, invite people over before your house feels finished (no one is going to be bothered about a bit of a mess), before your menu feels impressive, and before you think you have all the right pieces. The people around your table will remember how they felt in your home far more than whether every detail matched.
***Table items also make some of my favorite souvenirs when traveling! Here you’ll see a tablecloth and tray I picked up in Positano a few years ago and still use regularly!
The Table
For Serving
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I’m such a big fan of hosting people in my home and creating delicious meals and a warm space to spend time with the people that I love. The autumnal vibes are coming in strong now, and I can’t wait to utilize your suggestions at my next dinner later this month! I want to get that glass and wood combo salad bowl, it’s gorge! :)
I realiy need to read this. We have a party coming up, and I’ve been drasticalliy overthinking it. I LOVE your approach.
I love these ideas. A fall gathering sounds wonderful. I just love fall colors and fall foods, so it’s the perfect time to get together.
I love this! Fall gatherings should feel warm and welcoming without making the host feel stressed trying to make everything perfect. Good food, cozy touches, and time with the people you care about are really what make it special.