I’ve rounded up a few of the hosting essentials I use to make life easier when gathering with friends and family.   I’ve also included some tips and tricks to help you stress less and enjoy more!

Glassware

I have more than a few cupboards full of vintage and new glasses because they’re just so fun and can really make a boring drink look special! These stemless wine glasses are my go-to option because they’re so versatile. I use them all the time for wine, water – just about everything. 

Pitcher

It’s a beautiful way for guests to help themselves to a glass of sangria or large batch cocktails.

Joyful Hostess Tip: Keep a pitcher of water within easy reach for guests to stay hydrated (and to save you from running to the kitchen)

Wood Charcuterie Board

This board makes even the humblest ingredients look striking. It can add a touch of warmth to your table. And it’s not just for charcuterie! Try arranging desserts, fruits, or veggies for a rustic look.   Or forget the food altogether and layer some faux florals and candles to create a gorgeous last minute centrepiece.

Snack bowls & Appetizer Plates

There’s lots of fun, themed tableware to choose from BUT when it comes to hosting essentials – start with a classic pattern or colour, like these simple white bowls.  This way, your collection can be used year-round and for many different occasions.  If you want to add a little pizazz to your simpler tableware, add seasonal and festive touches using paper napkins, décor and florals.

Serving Trays

I like to opt for trays that are multi use and have a bit of a lip on them so that food and juices stay put… instead of ending up on the tablecloth.  Case in point: These white trays would look equally beautiful arranged with mini quiches as they would serving a pear and arugula salad.   Again, much like the bowls and plates (above) – choose trays that are a classic design and can be used year-round instead of for just one season.

Joyful Hostess Tip:  Save yourself precious cleaning time by picking entertaining serve ware that’s dishwasher safe.  Also think about your storage space and don’t pick platters that are so big they won’t fit in your cupboards.   

Serving Utensils

Larger serving utensils:  This set comes with a number of servers that are ideal for hosting – everything from pie server to slotted spoon – you’ll never have to serve mashed potatoes with a tablespoon again!

Small espresso spoons:  I love these espresso spoons.  They’re gold colour makes everything feel festive and elegant and they’re the perfect size for serving dips, chutney, honey, jams etc.

Corkscrew

A super handy tool  – especially if you plan on serving wine.  Even if you don’t plan on it, people like to bring wine as a hostess gift so owning a corkscrew is a good idea.

Ice Bucket

Setting up a fabulous ice bucket next to the drinks means you can spend less time fetching ice and more time mingling with your guests.  Interested in essential home bar accessories or how to set up your bar area?

Joyful Hostess Tip : If possible, set up the bar in a separate area from the food – spreading the goodies around encourages people to mingle.

There you have it my friends, my hosting essentials to help you better prepare for this year’s hosting duties.  And remember, hosting is not about perfection but connection -so keep that in mind and enjoy this special time with friends and family!

Cheers!

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