Hostess With the Mostest

How to host people over, the Sazónista way.

Whether you are planning an intimate soirée, cozy night in or lavish dinner party with friends, being a great host is all about creating an atmosphere of warmth, laughter, and genuine connection. In my culture, hospitality isn’t just a tradition—it’s an art form, and we pride ourselves on being masters of it, weaving warmth and generosity into every gathering.

Here is a guide with some tips and tricks that will elevate your hosting game to new heights, leaving your guests in awe and eager for more.

Set the Scene:
- Transform your space into a cozy retreat with soft lighting, chill tunes, and a touch of whimsy. Create an atmosphere that feels like a warm hug—inviting and comfy.
- Appeal to all the senses to create the ultimate cozy atmosphere. Let’s set the scene. When your guests arrive, they will first be welcomed by the sweet inviting aroma of your home. I like using diffuser oils and candles with notes of vanilla, bergamot and sandalwood. You want it to smell like a hotel lobby or a spa! As they make their way inside they will be embraced in the warm glow of dim light filling the room. Soft jazz music plays in the background. I have a playlist on Spotify I always use. As they sit on the couch they are immediately enveloped in a cloud of soft pillows and throw blankets. And finally indulgently engulfed with the first sip and bite from your decadent spread, but more on that later.
Plan Like a Pro:
- Fail to plan, plan to fail. I love a checklist especially when planning for company. Start by crafting a menu that caters to everyone’s tastes and dietary needs. Opt for dishes that can be prepped in advance so you can spend more time mingling and less time stressing. Prep work, organization and time management are crucial. I like to allot timestamps to each task so I can work in order of operations and get everything done before guests arrive. And don’t forget to stock up on essentials—because nobody wants to run out of snacks mid-party!
Wow with Presentation:
- Think of your tablescape like a canvas and elevate your table settings with a dash of creativity and personality. Mix and match textures, colors, and patterns to create a visually stunning spread that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Use different sized candles and trays to create height, flowers for pop of color and table cloths to create texture and dimension.
- Tip: I like using serving “mounts”, not only to create height but to make more room for other delicious treats on the table. You don’t need anything fancy, you can get creative with it! I have used dish organizing racks from the dollar store.
Serve with Style:
- A crucial part of hosting for me, is the food, and I am all about serving it in abundance. You always want your guests to go home satisfied, with full bellies and to-go containers. While sometimes it may not always be cost-effective to buy in “abundance”, there’s plenty of ways to fill the table without skimping on your spread. You can still use humble ingredients such as chickpeas and flour and turn them into something delicious like hummus and pita.
- I like to set up the snacks, charcuterie and crudités platters with plenty of dips & spreads for guests to nibble on before the main course.
- And don’t forget the bevies! I like to have a variety of beverages to go with the occasion, whether it’s sparkling water, tea, coffee, sodas, juice and a signature cocktail/ mocktail.
Keep the Vibes Up:
- Keep the energy flowing and the good times rolling with a mix of fun activities and games. Whether it’s a DIY cocktail bar, a game of charades, or a cozy movie night, find ways to keep your guests entertained and engaged.
Anticipate Needs and Exceed Expectations:
- Show your guests some extra love by anticipating their needs before they even ask. Keep an eye on drink levels, offer cozy throws for chilly guests, and have a stash of tasty snacks ready for any late-night cravings.
End on a Sweet Note:
- As the evening draws to a close, leave your guests with a memorable finale by brewing a digestif and serving a decadent dessert or sweet treat. Whether it’s a homemade pie, a gourmet cheese platter, or a selection of artisanal chocolates, end the night on a sweet note that lingers long after the last bite. Express your gratitude to your guests for joining you and for their company, leaving them with fond memories of an unforgettable evening filled with abundance and joy.

And there you have it—our guide to being the ultimate hostess with the mostest, serving in abundance and creating unforgettable experiences for your guests. With a little planning, attention to detail, and a generous spirit, you can transform any gathering into a magical affair that leaves everyone feeling welcomed, cherished, and eager for the next invitation. Cheers to the art of hospitality, and may your future gatherings be filled with abundance and sazón!