How to Be a Good Host ~ Hosting Tips

[@wherelovesat699]

In the Caribbean, most of us, coming to the end of the event will get help from guest to wash dishes, we often ask so that the homeowner won't be left with a huge clean up after guest have left.

[@peggy1844]

How about a video on how to be a good guest😊This was something I purposely went over with my children when they were young before we arrived at someone’s home. Things like remember to say please and thank you, to not comment negatively about the food...if it was something they knew they disliked to quietly pass it on. I also reminded them if our hosts had an activity planned to happily go along even if you preferred another game, reminding them that their host was kind enough to plan something they thought would be enjoyed and the need to be a good sport. Just a few ideas😊

[@jennifert2469]

I have an old entertaining book from the late 1800s and it says to only bring good topics to discuss, not horrible things on the news that affects the atmosphere in a negative way

[@janebentrott5984]

Thanks for addressing the pet issue. I am not a pet person, although I am glad for those who are. I appreciate not being jumped on or sniffed by a pet when I go to a friend’s home. I have found throughout the years that my guests are happiest when I am a relaxed hostess and well prepared enough to be able to enjoy the event.

[@lindemiscio9003]

Thank you for the great suggestions! One thing I always like to do when hosting is to have fresh flowers in the house , especially in the powder room and the guest room.

[@marlysblanche4270]

Always enjoy your videos!!

[@sherrycatanese4312]

Thank you addressing the pet issue. I was bit by a dog “ that doesn’t bite” just entering a friends house, now I’m very uncomfortable around pets. One family member with dogs uses the furniture covers, removes them for company, so when we visit we’re not covered in dog hair from the chair or sofa, that’s so thoughtful. Great video as usual!

[@margaretcurren7577]

Whenever we stay with our friends overnight, they put a picture of my husband and I on the nightstand. It adds a nice touch and makes us feel at home.

[@JenniferDecorates]

Great idea!

[@dianejohnson7235]

The idea of not lighting a scented candle when cooking a meal is one thing that I never thought about!!!! Great suggestions!!!!

[@natvtxn1213]

One thing I used to do was to leisurely decorate and set my table the day before with glasses upside down to make sure I had enough serving dishes, utensils and enough space. Everything was then clean and ready to go. I would jot down on a post-it which sides would go in that dish. I could then focus on the meal the day of and sometimes have helpful guests place food in designated bowls/platters.

[@midlifemom5829]

I do the same😊

[@andreawales1938]

Wonderful advice about putting the pets in another room behind closed doors. I’m not a pet person so I really appreciated that important hosting tip!

[@tessriley1774]

I was staying at a friend of a friends place - We didn't know each other well, and I was somewhat hesitant to stay in her home since we were only acquaintances, but she nearly insisted. Here's what she did for us. She had a picture of my husband and I and had it printed out, then put in a frame and left it in the bathroom we'd be using along with a little sign that said "Welcome". It was very simple but that small, kind act was one of the warmest welcomes I have ever received. She was a true lady, and we've remained friends since. A small act of kindness can have a big impact on others. I now try to do something similar for guests who might be staying in my home.

[@JenniferDecorates]

Tess, that is the neatest idea I have ever heard. What a lovely lady! Thank you so much for sharing this with me!

[@joyceschneider8377]

Loved all your suggestions. Some I forgot, thank you for the reminder. Since retiring I now have a small notebook with pages for friends we see a lot, and what they can and cannot eat, and likes. I also have a candle burning in the 1/2 (guest) bath, it helps if the light is turned off. Also if guest room has tv, a write up on how to work the tv and clickers. I liked the idea of a video on how to be a good guest ( maybe some hostess gift suggestions) . Thank you Jennifer.

[@rebekkad.2092]

Great basic advice. I always have a bussing tub so dishes go into it and I don't have to worry about dishes until after people have left. It soaks the dishes so they are ready for the dishwasher after a quick rinse.

[@lisalarson902]

Wow! Never thought of that. I'm using your idea this weekend. Thanks 👍

[@ellef4812]

Absolutely wonderful hosting tips! Love how you spoke to pets. I am definitely a dog person but I absolutely cannot stand when ppl have little yapping dogs that will not stop barking and they ignore them and you have to talk over them. I have a family member that I have to do this with every visit. Ugh...makes me feel like the dog means more to this family member than I do. (Perhaps that's true 😆)

[@virginiabrown4850]

Wonderful tips for hosting. So glad you emphasized the point that not everyone is a pet lover and to put them away when hosting. Thanks for sharing.

[@JenniferDecorates]

You are so welcome!

[@amandameunier4157]

I'm very appreciative of hostess gifts , a nice bottle of wine or small nibble plate contributes to a lovely gathering and my friends enjoy contributing. I never attend a dinner without something special for the hostess.

[@reesewhitt5495]

Very good. I use dry erase markers to write on bathroom mirror….”welcome or please help yourself to any toiletries”. And leave a basket of pain relief meds, toothpaste, brush, floss, etc on counter top. Draw smiley face or flowers also. If there is a mirror in the bedroom, you can do the same thing.

[@JenniferDecorates]

I LOVE that idea! Thank you.

[@elysmattar8368]

Great tips and advise. I am a planner and I even set the table the night before an event, paying special attention to the details and the food (which I am always to cook) is prepared in advance so that I can have more time with the guests. I just do not like to be stressed when I am expecting company and even if that company is my very large family, all the preparation is the same. I am in the process of getting my linen and napkins ready for Thanksgiving so that nothing is left out. ❤

[@LA70S]

Great video for the inexperienced. I might add one more since some people are obsessed with this. Do not ask your guests to remove their shoes. Some don't mind but many do. So, don't put your guests in an awkward situation. It's why we have brooms, mops and vacuums for the day after cleaning.

[@wherelovesat699]

Hmm, my home is a shoes free zone, my friends and family already know this, we have a cute sign at the door and shoe covers for contractors or those who need it.

[@kbarnes6855]

🙌🏼🙌🏼Yes!!! I totally agree! Oh- I could REALLY go on a Rant here - this is a pet peeve of mine! Well, I might as well do it!😂 It is quite simply incredibly impolite to ask guests to remove their shoes or put a covering over the soles when you have “invited” them into your home. Paid Workers with muddy boots? Yes- they should remove and my experience is they will without you asking. However, it’s the height of rudeness and anyone who request shoe removal of an invited guest is probably not a member of polite society. If they kick ‘em off without you requesting- no worries. If you are so concerned about germs on soles of shoes- chances are your hostess skills are lacking to begin with. Consider the elderly- my 87 year old Mother would be mortified if someone ask her to remove her shoes in their home. She has mobility issues and is a fall risk. Mops and brooms will take care of any messes after guests depart. Asking a guest to remove shoes and your dogs probably freely run in and out of the house all day? No. 😡 I feel better now. 😊 Otherwise- great tips in the video!

[@candylegedza3098]

As a guest I take indoor shoes or slippers that way my host know I respect their home but I still get to wear something on my feet. I am from Canada and removing your shoes is the norm here but it could be a weather thing. A good guest should never shown up with dirty shoes

[@LA70S]

@@candylegedza3098 Most people aren"t going to wear muddy or snowy shoes into someone's home but asking a party guest to remove their shoes is rude and could make a guest uncomfortable or even embarrassed. Frankly, if people are more concerned about a little dirt on the floor rather than being a gracious host, don't have a party. In all the years we had dinner or holiday parties, not ever would it have even occurred to me to tell people to to remove their footwear. The day after the party, a quick vacuum and/or mop took care of any remains of the party. I had more issues with spilled drinks and food than a shoe issue.

[@patriciaedoley9501]

I agree 100%. I have several foot issues, being barefoot is very painful. If someone asked me to take off my shoes I wouldn't be able to stay but a very few minutes and would be embarrassed. Great advice!!

[@lindamelz242]

Great advice and ideas . I put out a fresh hand towel and a new roll of TP . Someone commented about a candle burning in the bath so they can see -good idea.

[@emilliemendez18]

These are great tips!! I love the idea of having music on! I would add to have some sort of grazing platter out before dinner so guest have something to eat when they arrive. In my experience it’s been very helpful!

[@deborahhuckaby4623]

We all need extra information and ideas and advice when entertaining people in our home. Great tips and I completely agree.

[@januaryriches3991]

Thank you ❤ for the pets tip! And the last one, about relaxing with your guests until they actually leave rather than cleaning up and ruining the mood.

[@mariaameliapina5339]

Fresh flowers is always nice to have.

[@karenross3457]

I always serve food that does not need much last minute preparation. My go to recipes are Ina Garten's beef bourgeon and her baked shrimp scampi.

[@lindaortolano7837]

Hi Jennifer, All great tips!!! Especially the one about doing the dishes. Depending on how a hostess approaches cleaning up it's almost like saying the party is over! See you in the next one! :)

[@MrAnnette2468]

I agree! With age I now start to get ready 2 days in advance…I don’t want anything to do but relax the day of my party which gives me time to get ready, set out the appetizers and light the candles. I set the table and bar area the day before, write a sticky note for each bowl or charcuterie board to I make sure I don’t forget something. Always have a small bowls of nuts or mix around different areas for happy hour.

[@angelabacker1177]

Great tips, thank you you. As a person with hearing loss I would like to mention that ambient noise is a problem for the elderly or hard of hearing. I think it is a lovely welcoming idea, but not necessarily practical under all circumstances.

[@w.bovgvereav5761]

Hospitality : " Making your guests feel at home. Even if you wish they were. " ~ Unknown

[@windflower5010]

Good refresher!

[@xiomaralewis1002]

Wow this came at the right time for me. I have a guest and I did all the preparations days ahead. Wish I had known about the little details for the room, like toiletries. Everything else was ready. Thank you!

[@JenniferDecorates]

You are so welcome!

[@yolandamarshall872]

Love your videos with all these helpful tips! I like to have a LITTLE gift that my quests can take home.

[@deborahb3664]

Thanks!! Excellent video!!

[@thesmallscape]

What a great video, very thoughtfully done and so helpful and timely. 😌

[@cynthiapittard4086]

Great suggestions we don't always think about..

[@jobennett1604]

And some people are just naturally good hosts. Like you! Thanks for this one!

[@jobennett1604]

@@ashley_official0295 messaged you

[@jobennett1604]

Jennifer, just a word of caution that I have received some scam-like replies to this comment. Scary.

[@Loveofdecorating]

Great advise! Being a pastors wife, I host a lot of pastors, their wife, and children on a regular basis! I have an evangelist quarters that we have set up and in it I have a fresh basket of goodies made, and I also have a small kitchenette with a mini fridge stocked with a variety of drinks and yogurts and cold creamers for their coffee ☕️. We also have a Kuerig set up in the room, extra toiletries set up in their bathroom and a nice picture frame with the WiFi password printed. I also try to buy fresh fruit and place it in a crystal bowl on the kitchenette counter. We bought a beautiful tufted futon/couch that makes into a bed for kiddos and also have a blow up mattress under the bed for additional bedding if they have a troup 😂😂… I cook for them in my home but I need to be better prepared like you say and clean the day BEFORE so I don’t ware myself out!! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve done that! Next time I’ll take your advise!

[@rhondahorn8878]

thanks for the suggestions they were great

[@normacarrasco1384]

Hi Jennifer excellent advice when you are expecting guests. Very important to set the table correctly. Thank you for the tips.

[@Christie-gp2cy]

Great ideas Jennifer. I really enjoy watching and learning from your videos. Thank you for sharing.

[@JenniferDecorates]

Glad you like them! Thank you for watching!

[@Sunshinelady]

This is just what I needed…thank you so much Jennifer!

[@JenniferDecorates]

You are so welcome!

[@skaycgoldenridge]

Thank you for these wonderful tips. Looking forward to your Christmas videos. Take care and have a wonderful and safe Autumn and holiday season.

[@JenniferDecorates]

Thank you so much!

[@karenallen3486]

Great advice Jennifer. I love to entertain.

[@gildamolinar5155]

I personally love to add fresh flowers, they put a smile on my face.

[@JenniferDecorates]

Me too!!!

[@mslil65]

Such timely advice Jennifer! Thank you!

[@patriciapanagopoulos7677]

Thank you for all the wonderful and helpful advice 😍

[@JenniferDecorates]

You are so welcome!

[@crterwil]

Wonderful video. So many great tips. Thank you!!

[@JenniferDecorates]

Glad it was helpful!

[@angiegeesey7302]

Thanks for sharing. Another great video - Have a great weekend.

[@denisejordan8648]

Great points. Thank you for sharing.

[@JenniferDecorates]

You are so welcome!

[@bjohnson1149]

I have a question for you, Jennifer. If someone brings a hostess gift, do I open it when they arrive or put it aside for later?

[@pleballerina9624]

I try to have everything ready before a dinner party so that I can catch a quick 10-15 minute nap before guests arrive.

[@shineyourlightwithraz]

Great tips..Thank you

[@janreynolds3794]

Great video!

[@damnliciouswings2940]

When my host begins doing the dishes and puts things away, I feel as though they are ready for us to leave. Being present is very important!!

[@JenniferDecorates]

Agree!

[@sandiburgess5902]

the "basics" reviewed xo

[@johnjames6620]

As far as masking food is concerned my rule of thumb is: Make one course, buy one course (maybe the desert ... like a cheesecake) and make one course a few days before (maybe the starter ... a soup and freeze it).

[@phylis3917]

That Denis’ (friend) technique. .

[@Trwanddon]

Do something unexpected... even if it's a type of music that is different, a new food to try, eat somewhere you don't normally--around the coffee table on a pillow with some fondue; a patio table with umbrella in your dining room during winter, a formal dinner on a pontoon boat in the summer. We have hired belly dancer for Moroccan party, live bands for larger parties, even hiring someone to serve the dinner or a bartender can make it seem more special. I know these might be for the initiated.

[@emmaburch391]

Awesome video … maybe fresh flowers in the guest room would make the ppl feel special…

[@JenniferDecorates]

That is a great idea!

[@evawood9655]

Any tips for being a silent hostess... I'd made a big dinner for them.to just reheat. Simple instructions... I had to work and had given them the menu. They were in town to visit my husband... Background noise is more complaints! So disheartening...

[@heatherfitzgerald7260]

We don’t wear shoes in the house. How would be a good way to ask guests to remove their shoes, but not come across as rude? Thanks!💜

[@carolbass9012]

A lot of cultures don't wear shoes in the house. Let them know ahead of time. That way they are prepared and don't have to worry about wearing holey socks! LOL. It does happen....

[@stardustgirl2904]

🍂🍁🍂 I'm always exhausted during the Holidays! I'm the only cook in my family and I do everything the night before! And my husband and sons will also help,they just don't have the recipe 😋 in there head, like I do! I usually never want to eat, after cooking for two days!

[@Autumnjoyz]

Same here even though I have daughter in laws they rarely offer to help. My husband does try to help but I do the bulk of everything.

[@stardustgirl2904]

@@Autumnjoyz I have one daughter in law, and her Mother didn't teach her much, about being a wife at all. She keeps to herself pretty much! We go to church every Sunday and we have young adult women,who are well versed by their Mom's on how to cook . I have been teaching all my sons to cook as well, my husband cooks regular dinners, just not holiday recipes! He also cooked and cleaned ,why I had all four of my son's. So I want my son's to do the same for their wives when they get married. 👍🏻🙏🏻💜🍁🍁🍁🍂🍁🍁🍁🍂🍁🍁🍁🍂 I hate how close together all the major holidays are, it's so much work! But I did come across a Thanksgiving Crock-Pot dinner, it's easy and amazing! It's on KZbin, by the preacher's wife!

[@Autumnjoyz]

@@stardustgirl2904 We have 2 daughter in laws, like yours, their mothers didnt teach them about being a wife (ones mother never married). My dad was in the military so we were rarely ever around family growing up but I know to offer to help the hostess. My husband was raised by a mom that did everything for him. He’s learned a lot being married to me lol… when I had back surgery he had to take over the household duties and the cooking. It gave him appreciation for what I have always done/do. He tries. Like you, I taught our 2 sons to cook (and clean) so they would know how. They both do that at home. I asked our 14 yr old granddaughter last night if she would like to come help me with T-day dinner preparations/cooking the day before. With a big smile she said she would. Im looking forward to that 🥰 girl time/bonding time and help. I may request her help for Christmas too. Maybe I wont be so exhausted this yr 🙏🏻 Im going to check out the YT channel you suggested, thank you!

[@ecolifeca]

Nowadays so many people sensitive to fragrance so I prefer not to use any scented products for guests. Including soaps and candles.

[@dob8240]

Jennifer, your the sister l never had...

[@wannaduckfin]

This is so timely for me. We're having a game party tomorrow night. UofM/MSU football 🏈 rivalry. Jennifer you hit the target for me🏈🏈🏈‼️