Hosting With Purpose
Hosting has always been alluring to me. Having the honor to be where your loved ones gather is rewarding. I’m able to show my love through food, conversation and purpose. Menus are made, a theme is set and activities are created. Currently, the process is a bit chopy, and yet much smoother than the past. The evolution of a new skill in the making.
Growing up, my parents often hosted. New Year's Eve game nights, Christmas morning shenanigans, and a monthly poker party filled with many snacks. I don’t recall helping very much, which shows that I had no clue about the effort it takes. The work leading up to the event often hides in the past. Yet I’m sure my mother made lists and did chores, and I’m guessing my parents even had some arguments. And I, as a child, was completely oblivious.
Today I see dinner parties with wiser, more experienced eyes. There is the prep work, execution, and clean-up. And the love shared at my tables is worth every bit.
If you follow my socials, you know how much I adore the look of a table after a meal. A messy table is the evidence of love. The dirty plates meant delicious food was consumed and warmed the bellies of my guests. Dessert is a must in this household, so leftover sweets are often left smeared on the plate. Candles elevate the meal, and half-empty glassware sparkles in their warm light. Brightly colored cloth napkins are tossed aside as their jobs have ended, or maybe they’re collecting the drips from an after-dinner drink. The leftovers of a well enjoyed meal.
Hosting and being childfree complement each other quite well. I’m not in charge of a tiny human during any stage, nor am I asking one to help. I can focus on the tasks at hand without interruption. I can also light 150 candles without thinking someone will burn themselves… and if they do, that’s on them. I’m able to express myself fully.
This past weekend I hosted a Galentine’s. Seven women giggled around a table and sipped champagne with fresh squeezed orange juice. We ate off of my grandmother’s china, and wrote letters to women that inspired us as we dried happy tears from our cheeks. I asked everyone to share something they were proud of, and we danced under a shower of confetti while we cheered each other on. I put purpose and intent into the gathering and still feel the energy today.
As I progress with my hosting endeavors, I look forward to who sits across from me. I can’t wait to hear the stories of someone’s past, their dreams for the future, and even how they are moving through their day-to-day life. I will hold on to their words, and, more importantly, how they made me feel when I need a smile. The connections made over food can last a lifetime. And I foresee a lot more love to be shared.