The Art of Hosting

The Art of Hosting

Hosting is an art form - it’s about crafting an experience that leaves a lasting impression. We get it, hosting can be a bit overwhelming, and that's where we step in! Whether you’re hosting the next holiday dinner, throwing a birthday party, or gathering friends for an intimate meal —these tips are your ticket to mastering the art of hosting.

1. Prepare Ahead of Time 

For a hosting gig that's blissfully stress-free, do as much prep work as you can ahead of time. Grab all the food, supplies, and furniture you'll need for the event. The goal? Get things sorted early, so when the big day arrives, you can actually kick back and enjoy. Our pro tip? Nail down the headcount in advance to make sure you've got enough seats for everyone - but always make sure there’s an extra chair you can bring from another room to accommodate a last-minute guest. And if you're in need of extra seating or want some chic dining chair options, we've got a lineup of our favorite modern chairs for every kind of gathering.

The Riley Dining Chairs in Cream and Black styled in a modern dining area.

For a boho-modern look, the Riley Dining Chair is the perfect choice. Crafted with natural teak wood and a sun-proof rope seat, this chair can be used both inside and outside, perfect for parties in any season.

The Harper Accent Chair styled in a modern boho living area.

Wrapped in a luxe white boucle fabric and featuring soft modern curves, the Harper Accent Chair is a great choice for an elegant dinner party. Use this sleek chair around the dinner table and even slide it over to the living area for extra seating to keep the party going. This statement piece will bring an air of sophistication wherever it’s placed.

The Cameron Accent Chair styled next to a dining table for a unique look.

To add a pop of color to your party and space, choose the Cameron Accent Chair with its sculptural three-leg design and cozy camel boucle fabric. It will be an artful touch to your gathering.

2. Create a Signature Cocktail & Offer a Self Service Bar

Kick things off by whipping up your very own signature cocktail and display the ingredients on a bar cart where guests can refill themselves. Pick a theme and create a couple of different options for a warm and inviting welcome.

The Vienna Storage Cart (Clear) used as a bar cart and styled with barware and accessories.

A bar cart, like the Vienna Storage Cart, is essential to display your barware and signature drink essentials. Display the recipe or create a premade batch of the cocktail of the evening so people can rely on easy refills. Don’t forget to stock the basics so your guests can branch out and craft their own cocktails of choice.

3. Set the Ambiance with Mood Lighting

Nothing makes people more relaxed and comfortable than great lighting. Use warm light bulbs and candlesticks to create the perfect ambiance. Below are a few of our favorite pieces that bring life into every room.

The Lucia Pendant Lampshade styled above a dining table.

Set the mood while you eat with the Lucia Pendant Lamp Shade. Made of natural rattan, this cylindrical lampshade is the perfect balance of modern and bohemian. Just add a lightbulb with a warm temperature for a cozy feel.

The Athena Candlestick Holder and the Colette Wooden Candle Holder in large and small styled side by side.

Candles are a simple, yet elegant addition to your tablescapes. They provide instant warmth and can replace harsh ceiling lights with a warm glow. Use unique sculptural candlesticks like the Athena Candlestick Holder with its unique cut-out design or the Colette Wooden Candle Holder with its natural bohemian charm.

4. Get Creative with Mix & Match Vessels

Have you been collecting any vases, ceramics, or decor items? Time to bring them all out and mix and match to show off the things you love.

The Tavi Wood Bowl and the Victoria Ceramic Bowl pictured side by side.

Unique bowls like the Tavi Wood Bowl or the Victoria Ceramic Bowl make perfect holders for various accouterments like fresh, colorful fruits, to scatter throughout the tablescape.

The Samara Ceramic Vase and Breathe In Ceramic Vase pictured side by side.

Add fresh florals to a few playful vases like the Samara Ceramic Vase or Breathe In Vase and place them on your dinner table or in the entryway for your guests to enjoy.

5. Incorporate Your Tableware into Your Decor

The Felicity Arch Cabinet styled as a set of two in a modern dining area.

And when the party is over, store everything in a stunning cabinet that makes your favorite plate and glassware a part of your decor like the Felicity Arch Cabinet. Double up for full effect and keep everything within easy reach for a spontaneous dinner with friends or your next dinner party.

Last but not least, remember to have fun. You deserve to enjoy your hard work and spend quality time with your guests. We hope our tips help you create a memorable experience that will be remembered for a lifetime. 

Shop the Eat In Collection now!

Show off your dining style or how your dinner party turned out by tagging us @mycurahome and using #mycurahome.

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