HOST WITH THE MOST

Words by Lesego Ntsime | Images: Supplied

Hosting - a South African speciality; a chance to ease into the presence of loved ones and indulge in good food, drink and company. During this festive time of year, hosting grows into an even larger affair. Loved ones travel from all corners of the world to your doorstep and there’s a certain flair inherent in the usual braai, dinner party or get-together. 

The secret ingredient in next-level festive season hosting? Details. “With little details, these can be anything from creative touches to practical needs,” AJ Williams, founder and creative director at AJ Events reflects in The Bash. “This can be something as simple as having extra closet space for coats. These thoughtful details will let people feel and know that you’ve put a ton of effort into this at-home celebration.”

Catering to groups of people can often be an overwhelming task, especially around this time of year. The guest list comprises relations that stretch from family to friend, child to adult and somehow your efforts must encompass all their enjoyment. In the midst of planning delectable dishes and preparing your home for extra company, certain little-but-not-so-little things are likely to fly over your head. 

We’ve rounded up four hosting tips that are sure to: 1) give a famous Real Housewife a run for her money and 2) make your guests want to return for seconds. 

The heart of every gathering is at the table. Glasses reserved for drinking and cutlery chosen for feasting are key to great hosting. Think back to a time when your elders forbade you to eat from that ‘special’ plate that always seemed to be awaiting an accompanying special day. The lesson? Special days call for special details. 

Whether you’re planning to dig in around the table or dine casually outdoors, tabletop essentials enhance any dining experience. Pick a theme and consider your crowd to ensure your set-up is child-friendly. Build your tabletop look with tablecloths, placemats and napkins. You can rely on fine crockery, cutlery and drinkware to steal the show and small personalised details like name cards to wow your guests.

With loved ones coming from far and wide during the holidays, the guest bedroom takes centre stage. Whether you’re preparing it for the little ones’ afternoon naps or the convenience of a close friend, a comfortable and cosy space to rest for the guests who need it is a thoughtful hosting detail.

Great guest bedrooms feel like a home away from home. Crisp sheets and luscious pillows can induce joy after a long day of socialising. Add texture and dimension with throws, quilts and blankets and elevate the experience with charismatic decor, candles and diffusers.

Zen-like and well-scented - a considered bathroom space is likely to become a talking point amongst your guests. The same functions of a bathroom - to unwind and rejuvenate - don’t disappear when guests appear (sometimes all one needs is a two-minute bathroom break to recoup).

Trendy bathroom accessories such as mirrors, mats, towel hooks and storage baskets are practical yet still contribute towards the overall look and feel of the bathroom in texture, colour and design. Complete the look with fresh towels, plants, wall art and candles. Don’t forget the scented hand wash and lotion. 

A wise man once said, “Where words fail, music speaks.” The festive season provides ample opportunity to celebrate love and community within our intimate circles, and music plays a role in setting the tone for blissful memories. 

Impress your guests with your music taste or assign aux-duty to someone else with speakers from trusted brands like JBL and Marshall. Let the festivities begin.