Hi, lovely people, we unite once again! Today, I want to provide you with the inside scoop on perfecting your hosting game. Everyone loves a good intimate event to attend, but do you know the must-haves for hosting amazing gatherings? I am going to give you the real spill on the basics to keep, to-die-for pieces, and items you probably haven’t considered. Consider this your guidebook, the one you didn’t know you needed until now.

Reusable Hosting Basics You’ll Thank Yourself For

First things first, let’s cover the basics. If you are a hosting connoisseur like me, you know that reusable items are quite literally your BFF. I am talking table linens, chargers, and platters. My signature go-to is classic white. You can never go wrong with classic white, and you can easily build a theme around this. Some signature colors to consider having in your arsenal are silver, gold, acrylic, and classic white. These timeless pieces set the tone for every gathering, no matter the occasion. Once you’ve built a solid collection of versatile staples, hosting becomes effortless and elegant every time.

Now, let’s dive into the Hosting Basics Checklist, your go-to guide for the must-haves every host should own.

Table Linens: You can never go wrong with classic white, but I also love mixing in neutral linen or seasonal patterns to keep things fresh. Think tablecloths, runners, and cloth napkins that can be reused for any vibe you’re going for.

Chargers: Gold, silver, acrylic, or rattan. Chargers instantly elevate your tablescape and add that extra wow factor. Plus, they work for any occasion, big or small.

Platters & Serving Trays: Every host needs a few good platters. I recommend investing in quality ceramic, glass, or wooden ones for charcuterie boards, desserts, or main dishes.

Reusable Glassware: Wine glasses, tumblers, and stemless cups are a must. Having a good set on hand makes entertaining (and clean-up) a breeze. Personally, I have a huge stash of reusable glass for my signature drinks.

Cloth Napkins & Rings: Swap disposable napkins for reusable cloth ones. They add a polished touch and feel instantly more luxurious. Napkin rings are the cherry on top. Of course if this is costly, themed disposable napkins does the job just fine.

Versatile Centerpiece Vessels: Keep a few vases, candle holders, or compote bowls that can be styled differently for every event. The key is versatility; one piece can have a dozen looks.

Reusable Cutlery & Dinnerware: Go for elegant yet durable sets that transition seamlessly from casual get-togethers to formal dinners. You’ll thank yourself later. Keep a 72 count or more handy.

Serving Utensils: Don’t overlook these! A good set of stainless steel or gold-toned spoons, tongs, and cheese knives ties everything together beautifully. You can also opt for an acrylic set if needed.

Storage Bins & Organizers: Keep all your hosting essentials neatly stored and ready to go. It makes setup (and cleanup) so much smoother.

The Unsung Heroes of Hosting: Power, Light & Sound Essentials

When it comes to hosting, it’s not just about the tablescape; the right portable tools can make or break your event. Think of extension cords, lighting, and music setup as your behind-the-scenes heroes. A well-placed string of lights, your Bluetooth speaker filling the space with your curated playlist, or even a discreet extension cord to power everything seamlessly; these little details create a big impact. Because let’s be honest, nothing kills a vibe faster than realizing your phone is dead and the music stopped… talk about awkwardddd.

Investing in quality, portable items ensures that your gatherings flow effortlessly. From outdoor brunches to intimate living room dinners, having the right tools on hand allows you to focus on your guests instead of troubleshooting. I always keep my go-to Bose speaker and extension kits within easy reach, so the vibe stays perfect and the energy never drops. These essentials might seem small, but they truly elevate your hosting game from good to unforgettable.

Oops-Proof Your Event: The Must-Have Emergency Kit

I get it, things happen. There is always going to be something and never nothing, it’s life. That’s why every host needs a well-stocked emergency stash to save the day. Keep stain remover and upholstery cleaner handy for those unexpected spills, a first aid kit for any little mishaps, and a fully stocked bathroom so your guests feel taken care of. Make sure aromas are flowing throughout the home, the lighting sets the perfect mood, and the ambiance is picture-perfect because you never know who’s going to snap a photo. Now with this list such extra utensils, backup lighting, and every little detail you can think of (think of more – yes more!) which will prepare you for those unintentional challenges. There’s always going to be someone who tests your hosting skills. With this stash, you’re ready for anything and can host confidently, no matter what comes your way.

My Go-To Décor That Never Fails

When it comes to hosting, I always have a few reliable pieces that never let me down, no matter the theme. My go-to staples include ceramic dishes that feel timeless, reusable glassware that elevates any tablescape, and a linen table runner that adds just the right touch of texture and elegance. I also love incorporating risers to create visual interest on the bar top, which are perfect for showing off desserts, appetizers, or centerpieces.

Beyond these, I often pull out a few extra items to really bring the vibe together: candles for warmth, and subtle decorative accents like small vases, greenery, or seasonal elements. These pieces are versatile, reusable, and effortless to mix and match, making it easy to transform any gathering from simple to unforgettable. Having a go-to collection like this means you can host confidently, knowing your table will always look polished and inviting.

Spend Smart: When to Splurge and When to Save

Every host knows that not all pieces are created equal, and knowing where to invest versus where to save can completely change your game. I like to think of it as “spend smart, not splurge blindly.” Some things are worth the extra dollars because they get used over and over such as high-quality ceramic dishes, durable glassware, or a classic linen table runner. These are your go-to pieces that make every gathering look effortlessly polished. Trust me, nothing says “I have my life together” like pulling out dishes that don’t wobble, glassware that doesn’t scream “I got this from the bargain bin,” and linens that actually look expensive. Investing in these essentials upfront means you’re setting yourself up for hosting success without the stress of constantly replacing things.

On the flip side, some items don’t need a hefty price tag to make a big impact. Balloons, seasonal décor, candles, and fun centerpieces are perfect for saving. They’re trendy, easy to switch out, and let you get creative without breaking the bank. The trick is to balance your collection: invest in the essentials that set the tone and save on the playful, changeable details that bring personality to your table. That way, you always have a polished, cohesive look without feeling like you’ve splurged on everything and your hosting stays smart, stylish, and stress-free.

Do you want your next event and your everyday spaces to feel seamless in style? I’m now offering combined interior + event planning packages. Or, if you’re just curious, reach out and let’s chat about our interior design and event planning services to bring your vision to life. Feel free to inquire about the right signature pieces or must-haves.

Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes peeks, mood board mashups, how-to’s and much more coming very soon.

Thanks for reading my blog! Can’t wait until next time!

xoxo,

Gabrielle Simone <3