This post is sponsored by AVA Grace Vineyards. All opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting the brands that help make Adored by Alex possible.
What’s one thing that brings you joy? As a new(er) homeowner, it’s quickly become entertaining at home! I love being a hostess; seeing my guests enjoying fruitful conversation and delicious eats, puts a smile on my face. Entertaining at home can seem overwhelming, but if you’re equipped with my best tips for entertaining at home, such as an epic playlist or the perfect wine pairing, you’ll surely be a successful hostess.
Entertaining at home can come in a variety of different presentations. Whether it’s the casual fall football game gathering or a holiday dinner, their skeletons are similar. Good food, great music/entertainment, and libations always go hand-in-hand with at-home entertaining.
I’ve got a few best tips and tricks for entertaining at home that are worth noting. If you’re new at hostessing, or even a seasoned-veteran, read on for some of my entertaining tips!
Satisfy with tasty wine pairings
Whether I’m the hostess or a guest, I always like to have a good bottle of wine (or three) on hand! We’re fortunate to have a wine fridge in our kitchen, so I make sure to keep it stocked with plenty of varietals at all times. One thing to remember as a hostess: just because you may like a Cab or Rosé, doesn’t mean your guests will feel the same. Over the years I’ve found some wines I love and trust, and keep them on hand for entertaining because of their crowd-pleasing qualities.
A brand I constantly keep on-hand is AVA Grace Vineyards. AVA Grace wines are vibrant and fruit-forward. Truly, I haven’t had an AVA Grace wine that I didn’t like. Plus, they’re priced really well, giving you a deliciously crafted wine at an affordable price.
I love a glass of the Ava Grace Sauvignon Blanc. The tropical fruit and melon notes pair well with a variety of food options. Plus, it’s a total crowd pleaser. It’s not overly complicated, but balanced and easy to drink. Meanwhile the Chardonnay features a touch of oak (my favorite), along with balanced and bright fruit flavors. Both are easy to drink alongside a tasty charcuterie board, at a bridal or baby shower brunch, or even dining al fresco before the fall temperatures get the best of us!
Cue up a great playlist
In my opinion, there’s something about music that makes or breaks a gathering. I love utilizing different music streaming services to create the perfect playlist.
My personal, tried-and true playlist is ‘Hipster Cocktail Radio’. I’ve spent hours listening to it and honing in on the perfect picks for my station favorites. With an upbeat vibe, and unexpected classics, which will no doubt elicit sing-alongs from your guests, your gathering will hum along smoothly!
Less kitchen-time, more face-time
Staying out of the kitchen as much as possible – it’s something that’s so difficult for a hostess. I’ve often found myself trying to clean up dishes (mid-party!) or simply getting stuck talking to a guest within my kitchen walls, away from other attendees.
Without a doubt, being a hostess encompasses a bit of preparation and work before, during and after the gathering, but I’m a huge proponent of relinquishing tasks OR simply letting myself live in the moment and know that I’ll use the next day to wash dishes or clean up. This tactic took years for me to come around to, but here’s a bit of advice. If someone asks to assist or how they can help, let them do so! There’s no need to wear a cape! If a guest offers to help, take them up on their offer. Not only will this make for one less task on your to-do list, but it also gives you an opportunity to chat and get out of the kitchen that much faster!
Meanwhile, cleaning up during your party or gathering is okay, to an extent. Cleaning plates off the table is only natural. However, don’t let yourself turn on that sink faucet! An epic hostess knows when to be present and forego the chores that come with hostessing. You’ll have plenty of time after your guests depart to tackle all those dishes, don’t worry!
So grab a glass of AVA Grace wine and enjoy entertaining at home. After all, the efforts you’ve put in to prepare have made you that much more deserving of enjoying your party or gathering. Hope my best tips for entertaining at home help you be a great hostess. Cheers!
