Hosting 101: A Low-Stress Guide for the Busy but Well-Intentioned

Written By Erica McClintock

I don’t know if this is Virgo sh*t or ADHD sh*t, but as someone who forgets everything, this list holds me accountable for excellence in hospitality. This is my personal list. Take what sticks and throw out what doesn’t. This is for women who are new to hosting, but want to start where they are with what they’ve got. If you’re like me: somewhere between poor and rich, organized and chaotic, this is for you.

Two Weeks Prior

Decide your what and why.

  • Dreaming is the best part! Post-work vent session? Jersey Shore themed day party? Game night? Easter brunch? The world is your oyster. You’re vibe curator. Just send it, babes.

Set a budget.

  • We can’t all throw Mindy Weiss level parties. Only you know how much you can spend. My only advice is don’t go into debt trying to be impressive. Popcorn and sparkling water from Aldi? Great. Caviar and champagne from Whole Foods? Also, great (invite me). Hospitality is about making people feel loved, not running through next week’s check.

Choose who you’re inviting.

  • I love any opportunity to pretend I’m God. Hmm…who will make it into Erica’s Gates? Think of the energy you want—networking, deep convos, pure chaos? Invite people you trust. What connections, if any, do you want your guests to make?

Send invites.

  • Give your guests ample time to show up. 4-6 weeks ahead for big events, 2-3 weeks for smaller gatherings. A group text works; I also love using Paperless Post. Give your people the details, including the dress code and parking situation.

Order what you won’t find locally.

  • Baby, you know Party City has 30 minutes. If you need themed décor or anything customized, order now.

The Week Of

Stock up.

  • Buy shareable foods, drinks, ice, serveware, and flowers 3-4 days out. Ask your guests for a list of their favorite drinks and snacks—it’s a small touch that makes people feel seen.

If you’re messy, go ahead and start cleaning.

  • I, too, am quite busy. I’ve found that it’s better for me to tidy up gradually to keep myself from feeling overwhelmed. I mean, this is supposed to be fun after all! So don’t play yourself, start today. Give the pile of clothes on your bathroom floor the home they deserve - the floor in front of your washing machine.

The Night Before

Send a Quick “Can’t Wait to See You!” Text.

  • Also a good time to confirm RSVPs.

Prep your space.

  • Load & empty the dishwasher.

  • Vacuum floors, rugs, and couch (especially if you have pets).

  • Wipe down counters and surfaces with disinfectant wipes.

  • Put away any remaining clutter. (A closed door is my best friend, chile.)

  • Fluff pillows and straighten blankets. If you were a guest, would you want to cozy up there?

  • Scrub toilet, sink, and mirror. Replace hand towels. Restock TP, flushable wipes, and feminine products. Poo~pourri.

An Hour Prior

Set Up Snacks and Drinks

Create ambiance.

  • Light candles or use soft, warm lighting

  • Put on a curated playlist (background music is key!). Check out our playlists.

  • Adjust room temp for comfort

  • Create a cozy seating arrangement

During the Gathering

Offer refreshments as guests arrive. Be hospitable.

  • Is your place Waffle House or The Ritz? Baby, we serve prosecco upon arrival over this way! You don’t have to do that, but my guests love the extravagance, even if we’re just eating pizza.

  • Keep an eye on refills and tidiness.

  • If it’s someone’s first time at your place, give them a tour if you’re comfortable. There’s a big difference between “The bathroom is down the hall” and “Let me show you the bathroom.”

  • Read the room and ask questions: “Does anyone need anything?”

Don’t be afraid to be strict.

  • You set the tone. If the convo takes a weird turn (gossip, sensitive topics), steer it elsewhere. “Nah, we’re not doing that—let’s talk about something else.” Trust is extremely important when entering a new space. Kindness is ensuring that everyone in your care feels safe and respected.

Get your pics off.

  • You didn’t put forth all this effort for nothing- take pics! I keep a little “memory bowl” with printed photos of fun times. It’s always fun to look through when people are over.

Know that all good things must come to an end.

  • I’m a little rough around the edges, so my friends know that I am not shy about telling them when it’s time to leave. Don’t be afraid to say, “Hey, I have an early morning, but I loved having you over!”

After Guests Leave

Clean up immediately.

  • You might have booty flakes on your toilet as we speak. Diabolical.

Key Takeaways —

  • Keep a clean space. Be intentional to provide drinks/food that your guests prefer (within your budget.) Ask questions and be hospitable.

  • People are coming to your place because they want to spend time with you. No need to be impressive. Be yourself and rely on your senses- what make you feel loved? What doesn’t?

  • Mindfully steer conversations towards positive topics. Be aware of allergies and dietary restrictions. Never let anyone drive if they’ve had too much to drink.

  • Don’t let the tasks of it all rob you of the purpose of it all: love.

Well, that’s my life! Thank you so much for spending time with me. I hope you enjoyed it ‘cause I know I did. So, send me a message sometime! I can’t answer every single question, but I try. See ya!

Erica McClintock
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