With Festive Season now in full swing on the Big Island, the time to gather has come! You see, I do food for a living, but really I cook because I love creating ways for people to connect and give one another.
When people come to a table I have laid, I always hope they feel a deep exhale. How do we, as hosts, create an atmosphere for this to happen?
A lifetime of hosting has taught me that a great food experience doesn’t happen by accident. Here are three simple tools I use as a host that help create space for connection around my tables.
The vibe starts with me
The mood I’m in as I prepare is going to linger in the house as people arrive. I take a deep breath and remember that the whole point is having fun together, not how clean my floors may or may not be. I have the opportunity to give the meaningful gift of my time, creativity and attention, so I try my best to enjoy the process.
Choose a simple menu
When creating a menu for gathering with friends, I pull inspiration from my "Greatest Hits." This would be dishes that I've tried and tested in making people’s taste buds happy. Cooking something you already know removes a significant layer of stress, for me at least.
I choose simple appetizers that can be prepared in advance and served family-style. This creates a center point for guests to gather around upon arrival. Serving nostalgic and classic dishes brings back memories of happy times we have enjoyed together, opening the conversation to share good stories.
Let them help
Doing something with our hands helps us relax when we are in a new environment. Especially if you have an eclectic guest list, giving out little kitchen jobs really does play a big role in breaking the ice and getting those good vibes going.
Some of my favorite jobs to include friends in are chopping vegetables for the salad, pouring and serving the welcome cocktails and lighting candles on the table.
Pro tip: Don’t rush to do the dishes after.
Above all, you have got to host out of who you are! Do things your way. If you think it’s fun and yummy, your guests will think so, too. May you enjoy creating the space to host those you love and the light that fills every corner during this Festive Season.
XO, Beth.