How to Entertain: Tips for Successful Hosting

When it comes to entertaining, you want to be a great host. From having friends over for game night or prepping for a holiday dinner party with the family, it’s equal parts showing your guests a good time and showing off your style.

To get you ready and relaxed for any type of entertaining this season, we’ve enlisted the expertise of entertaining gurus Monica Benavidez, Melissa George and Lana Katsaros. They’ll make sure you’ve got the basics covered — from seating and serving to storage for all your supplies — so you can relax, breathe easy and enjoy the company of your guests.

SEATING: Give guests a comfy place to sit.

According to the entertaining experts, six to eight guests is the ideal size for a basic gathering. Make sure you have enough space for your guests and that each person has a place to sit comfortably.

EXPERT PICK 1: Carson Forge Counter-Height Stool for a casual game night

Carson Forge Counter-Height Stool cocktail party

Photo courtesy of Melissa George

EXPERT PICK 2: Audrey Upholstered Bench for dinner parties

Photo courtesy of Lana Katsaros

EXPERT PICK 3: Addison Accent Chair for relaxing at a cocktail party

Addison Accent Chair living room

Photo courtesy of Monica Benavidez

SERVING: A party’s not a party without a versatile bar cart.

EXPERT PICK: International Lux Bar Cart

“Using the International Lux Bar Cart in the living room for some drinks is great for setting up a few different ‘zones’ so people can spread out a little. Without it, the kitchen can get a little crowded as people are coming for both food and drinks. Plus, it’s gorgeous!” — Melissa George

International Lux Bar Cart living room entertaining

International Lux Bar Cart living room entertaining

Photos courtesy Melissa George

“Its large size and portable nature allows for a hostess to take the party anywhere in her home. The geometric design on the glass makes it unique, and the satin gold finish looks great with any décor style.” — Monica Benavidez

International Lux Bar Cart

Photos courtesy Melissa George

“It’s so large that it can serve as a bar for drinks or appetizers … or both!” — Lana Katsaros

International Lux Bar Cart entertaining

Photo courtesy of Lana Katsaros

STORAGE: Pretty and practical storage is a must.

EXPERT PICK 1: International Lux Accent Storage Cabinet

“It pulls double duty as a serving station during the party AND has plenty of space for supplies inside. I really like that it’s just deep enough to hold plates, but it doesn’t stick out too far from the wall. The adjustable shelves let me maximize what I can fit inside.” — Melissa George

Intentional Lux Soft Modern Sideboard

Photos courtesy Melissa George

EXPERT PICK 2: Soft Modern Sideboard

“Its got storage for everything you could possibly need for entertaining (chargers, flatware, extra plates/bowls, wine, runners, napkins, décor) in a style that oozes Midcentury Modern class. The angular design makes it interesting, plus the top is perfect for a spread of food. It’s a modern-day china cabinet that’s gorgeous and functional.” — Monica Benavidez

Photo courtesy of Monica Benavidez

EXPERT PICK 3: New Grange Tall Storage Cabinet

“We use a tall cabinet in the dining room to display things like pretty platters and glasses. It helps keep them organized and protected from dust and the daily elements.” — Lana Katsaros

Photos courtesy of Lana Katsaros

More key tips and must-haves from the entertaining experts

Monica:

Have plenty of food, drinks and places to sit so guests are relaxed and comfortable in your home.
Make sure your home is decorated in a way to show your personality. For me, that’s with floral centerpieces and unscented candles to highlight my furnishings with an elegant flair.
Wear an outfit that’s comfortable and makes you feel confident as a hostess. My go-to? A black top, statement earrings or necklace, and dark jeans with sparkly flats — you’ll look chic and put together, yet comfortable and ready to be a fab hostess.

Photo courtesy of Monica Benavidez

Melissa:

Be prepared in advance so you can relax and enjoy the evening yourself.
As guests arrive, make any necessary introductions and make sure everyone has a drink and knows where to get refills.
When hosting a game night, take a quick break between games to check on food and drinks.

Photo courtesy Melissa George

Lana:

Be considerate of your guests’ needs. Ask about any special requirements before the day of your party so they’re not the focus when it comes to enjoying your meal.
Be gracious and flexible, too! Things may not go perfectly, but when you are in good company, that often doesn’t matter.
Setting a comfortable and relaxed scene with yummy food is always a good time, so as a hostess, you should be relaxed, too!