When it comes to hosting, the goal is never perfection—it’s presence. As a private chef who’s worked in some of the most beautifully run homes, I’ve seen firsthand that the most memorable gatherings aren’t the most elaborate—they’re the ones where the host is relaxed, grounded, and actually enjoying their own table.
Whether you’re throwing a dinner party or simply gathering friends on a Sunday evening, here are my go-to tips for entertaining with ease.
1. Don’t Cook Everything Yourself
This is your gentle permission slip to not do it all. Hosting is an offering, not a test. Choose 1–2 dishes that you truly enjoy preparing, and outsource the rest—whether that’s from a trusted local spot, a prepared dessert, or help from a private chef.
No one’s expecting a full spread made from scratch. They’re coming for you—the food is a beautiful bonus.
2. Set the Table the Day Before
Table styling always takes more time than expected. Set it a day in advance so you can play with texture, layers, and flow without the last-minute scramble. Think:
Linen napkins or fabric you love
A mix of heights (candles, florals, glassware)
A personal detail: printed menus, name cards, a handwritten note
When the table is done, half the energy of the evening is already in motion.
3. Keep a Signature Dish in Your Back Pocket
Every great host has a go-to—something they know by heart, that always lands. It could be a simple pasta, a perfect roast chicken, or a big composed salad with crusty bread and wine. It’s not about impressing—it’s about creating comfort, beautifully.
Bonus tip: Always have a few “elevators” on hand—good olive oil, flake salt, fresh herbs. They turn simple into stunning.
4. Prep for the Flow, Not Just the Food
Hosting is more than what’s on the table. It’s the energy of the space.
Clear surfaces and corners (especially near entryways)
Scented candles or fresh greens in key places
A designated drink station so people can help themselves
Music that welcomes, not overwhelms
Make people feel immediately at ease, and you’ve already won.
5. Leave Room for Connection
Once the table is set and the meal is in motion, step back and enjoy what you’ve created. Hosting isn’t about hovering—it’s about creating a container for connection.
Put your phone away. Sit down. Pour yourself a glass. Let the night unfold.
Final Note
You don’t need a chef’s jacket or a catering team to host with ease—you need a little rhythm, a little intention, and a reminder that the most beautiful thing on the table is always the feeling people leave with.
