Hosting with Heart: 5 Essential Qualities and Must-Have Items for Memorable Gatherings

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and we’re all gearing up to gather with friends and family. Although this is one of the most stressful times of the year for me, it’s also my favorite. My family and I thoroughly enjoy gathering with people, but with all the craziness, it doesn’t happen as often as we’d like. But God calls us to gather—we are not created to do life alone. This is the perfect opportunity to remind myself and share my thoughts with you about hosting in hopes you’ll also be encouraged to send out that invite for the “Friendsgiving” dinner or invite the family that’s not traveling this year to join y’all for some time of fellowship this holiday season.

As I think about this season, I’m reminded that hosting a gathering is more than setting the table and preparing food—it’s about creating an atmosphere where people feel loved, seen, and at home. Whether you’re planning a holiday meal or a simple evening with friends this season, being a great host means focusing on the people more than the production.

I often think about how hosting reflects the heart of hospitality we’re called to have: welcoming others, serving with joy, and sharing what we’ve been blessed with. There’s a verse I love that sums it up beautifully: “Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling” (1 Peter 4:9). That’s the goal, right? Open hearts, open homes, and an attitude of service. Although we may know these points, hearing them helps us to get grounded again, so let’s talk about what makes a good host and some essential items that can make any gathering special.

What Makes a Good Host?

Being Present This is such an important quality but can be so difficult for me. With self-diagnosed ADD and a Martha personality, I need to remember this point often. Your guests aren’t coming for a perfectly set table (though a pretty setup is always nice!); they’re coming for connection. A good host focuses on the people in the room. Put down the kitchen towel, pause for a moment, and engage with your guests. Ask questions, listen to their stories, and make them feel like they’re the reason for the gathering—because they are!

 Making Everyone Feel Welcome Have you ever walked into someone’s home and immediately felt at ease? That’s the magic of a warm welcome. Greet your guests with a genuine smile, a hug for the Hugbees like myself, and a space that feels ready for them. This doesn’t mean your house needs to be perfect. It’s more about the vibe: a cozy candle burning, some soft music in the background, some fresh flowers and maybe a plate of something delicious to snack on when they walk in the door.

Planning with Intention Hosting is easier when you’re prepared. Think through your menu and seating and consider dietary restrictions or preferences. If kids are coming, set out activities or snacks to keep them happy. The best gatherings often feel effortless, but that’s usually because the host put thought into the details ahead of time. Keeping a few items on hand on the weekend to create a charcuterie board, is a nice way to ensure you're ready for that impromptu hosting opportunity. Last minute plans are often the funniest and a Charcuterie board is simple, customizable, and always a hit. I also like to keep a few staples on hand to make the experience a little more special—beautiful serve ware, a reliable platter for appetizers, and of course, candles to add ambiance. Speaking of which, I’ll share a few of my favorites in just a bit.

Serving with Joy Hosting can feel like a lot, especially if you’re juggling multiple dishes, drinks, and conversations. But when we approach it as a way to serve, it becomes less about performance and more about love. Offering someone a refill, ensuring everyone has a seat, or just keeping an eye out for someone who looks like they need a little extra attention—that’s the heart of great hosting.

 Embracing Imperfection Let’s be real—something will probably go wrong. Maybe the soup is a little salty, or you realize too late that you’re out of limes to make your favorite drink. Here’s the thing: nobody cares. Guests remember how they felt in your home, not whether everything was perfect. Laugh off the hiccups, go with the flow, and keep the focus on enjoying the time together.

 5 Must-Have Items for Your Gatherings

What are some tools that make hosting easier and more enjoyable for you? I enjoy incorporating pieces that blend beauty and functionality—a principle I also prioritize when curating products for Rivah View Home. Here are my top picks for this year’s holiday gatherings:

[Photo: Mended]

An Elegant Tablecloth or Runner. A tablecloth or runner adds a layer of design and elegance to the table setting and makes your meal feel more special and inviting. Select one from our Mended collection. Mended is a social impact brand that economically empowers survivors of modern-day slavery and connects their stories to globally conscious consumers.

A Statement Charcuterie Board. Charcuterie boards are always a hit, whether you’re serving meats and cheeses or piling it high with desserts. The 24” acacia wood board is one of my favorites. Its live edge and rich grain make it not just a serving piece but a centerpiece. Lay out your spread, and let the board enhance your presentation with its timeless design.

A Versatile Ceramic Platter. I can’t host without a large, durable platter. The round ceramic platter from our collection is a lifesaver for everything from roasted veggies to a stack of cookies. It’s simple, elegant, and works with any occasion.

Hand Blown Glassware. Good glassware is like the cherry on top of your table setting. Hand blown glasses have this organic, slightly imperfect look that feels intentional and artisanal. They’re perfect for wine, cocktails, or even sparkling water.

[Photo: Creative Women]

[Photo: Millstream]

Tapered Candles. Candles are non-negotiable for me. They transform a space instantly, adding warmth and charm. A few tapered candles in simple holders can turn an everyday meal into something magical. Plus, they make guests feel like you put in that extra bit of effort just for them

Hosting with Intention

Being a good host isn’t about impressing people; it’s about making them feel loved. It’s about creating a space where laughter, conversation, and connection can flourish. The heart of hospitality isn’t in the things we put out on the table but in the spirit we bring to the gathering.

That said, having the right tools and the proper planning can certainly make hosting more enjoyable—for you and your guests! I hope this inspires you to open your home more often, whether for a big celebration, a quiet dinner, or just a relaxing afternoon snack time with friends.

If you’re looking for any of the items I mentioned, you can find them in our collection at Rivah View Home. And if you have any hosting tips or go-to items, I’d love to hear about them! Drop your thoughts in the comments below.

Here’s to gathering with purpose and hosting with love this season and beyond.