One thing I love about my girlfriends is that no one is a stranger in their homes— hosting is something many of them have honed into an art and they always seem both most at peace and most full of joy when they’re able host people in their homes.
I’ve always lived in small apartments that didn’t bode well for hosting larger gatherings, but Mitch and I look forward to being able to do so one day!
There’s something uniquely special about holding space for people in your home. It shows a vulnerable side to us to be able to welcome people in, and gives them a place where they can be themselves, surrounded by love and adoration from their friends and loved ones. When I lived in Florida, I had a neighbor and friend who hosted what she called “Family Dinner.” It was a monthly potluck dinner, typically themed, that invited all of the young adults that she knew to gather at the dinner table to share stories, catch up, and unload the stresses of their weeks and days, leaving them at the bottom of red wine glasses and casserole dishes. This was especially favored among some of the flight school students and their spouses, who found the transient nature of their arrival to-and-from Pensacola often left them adrift and without friends who weren’t connected to the military. This friend’s Family Dinners brought together young professionals, teachers, pilots, and spouses to break bread and share the intimacy of their lives.
I love a quote from Priya Parker’s book, The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why it Matters, “the first step in convening people meaningfully [is] committing to a bold, sharp purpose.” While I may not be able to attend Family Dinner anymore, I know there are many moments to come surrounded by loved ones and friends at the table. Below I’ve shared a few small gifts that would show your appreciation to any such host that has invited you to gather with them!
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1: A chic tea tin that can be used over and over again! I love the flavor of this (cherry blossom and green tea) but think it would make an excellent cookie jar too (or wrapped sweets if you’d prefer)!
2: Not only are they viral, but these macarons from Laurée are such a statement gift! They’re elegant and beautifully packaged, to be beloved by anyone who has a taste for these French pastries!
3: This serving platter set will be the talk of the table when you set down the next course! Hand-painted with floral design, they nod to Italian heritage but would be a classic for years to come.
4: Everybody knows that a candle is a great gift! Even for those who are sensitive to fragrance, it can be something that’s regifted (I think we need to dispel the idea that this is verboten) if it’s not their preference. Otherwise, the jar is beautiful enough in its own right to make things cozy and festive!
5: Looking for a fun idea for someone who likes cloth napkins? Try these, which will remind guests of their table manners!
6: We love healthy-ish recipes, and this cookbook is a great place to start if you know someone who loves reading through and trying/adapting new recipes!
7: I could eat a PB&J every day for lunch if someone would let me. This jam set would be perfect for the PB&J lover or someone who likes a scone with tea and clotted cream!
8: With hosting, there’s always a chance something will get stained— come to the rescue with this Laundress stain remover. It chic packaging, smells great, and it’s incredibly practical!
9: I feel like everything for the last 5 or so years has been topped with “flaky sea salt.” Set your hostess up for success with a beautiful box from Maldon, and maybe include a salt cellar as well!
10: It’s the season of hot chocolate! Bring over this delicious cocoa powder so your hostess can whip up a version to their specific taste, or maybe they’ll bake something and end up sharing… it’s a win win!
11: Everyone should have a beautiful set of coupes to cheers with! I love this pink set, and I know they’ll sell out fast!!!! Try these or these if the original are sold!
Happy hunting xx
