Entertaining at Home: Must-Have Essentials for Hosting Like a Pro
Whether you're planning an intimate dinner party, a game night with friends, or a festive holiday gathering, having the right tools on hand can make entertaining at home seamless and stress-free. From elegant serving pieces to small appliances that do the heavy lifting, here’s a list of essential entertaining items every host should have in their arsenal.
1. Stylish Serving Dishes and Platters
Presentation matters. Invest in a variety of serving dishes, including:
Large platters for charcuterie, main courses, or appetizers
Bowls in various sizes for salads, chips, and side dishes
Tiered stands for desserts or tea sandwiches
Wooden boards for rustic cheese displays
Choose neutral tones like white, cream, or natural wood to match any occasion and let the food shine.
2. Drinkware for Every Occasion
A well-stocked bar or beverage station starts with the right glasses. Essential types include:
Wine glasses (red and white)
Champagne flutes
Highball and lowball glasses for cocktails
Mugs for warm beverages like coffee, cider, or hot cocoa
Bonus: Keep a set of stemless wine glasses on hand—they're versatile, less breakable, and great for both wine and cocktails.
3. Small Appliances That Save the Day
Some small appliances can dramatically cut down prep time and elevate your hosting game:
Slow cooker or Instant Pot: Great for soups, dips, or warm side dishes
Electric kettle: A must for tea drinkers and guests who prefer hot water
Immersion blender or food processor: For cocktails, dips, and sauces
Coffee maker or single-serve brewer: Keeps the crowd caffeinated
Whipped Cream Charger: For creating effortless mousses and foams instantly
Optional but fun: A mini waffle maker or fondue set for themed gatherings!
4. Buffet and Bar Setup Tools
If you’re serving buffet-style or setting up a DIY drink station, consider these must-haves:
Chafing dishes or warming trays to keep food hot
Ice bucket and tongs for drinks
Pitchers or dispensers for batched cocktails, lemonade, or infused water
Cocktail shaker and basic bar tools (muddler, jigger, strainer)
5. Linens, Napkins, and the Little Touches
Table settings can make your gathering feel extra special. Stock up on:
Cloth napkins and table runners for a polished look
Coasters and placemats
Candle holders and votive candles for ambiance
Serving utensils (tongs, ladles, pie servers, cheese knives)
Final Tips
Entertaining is as much about creating a warm, inviting vibe as it is about food and drink. With the right tools and a little prep, you can host stress-free and enjoy the party just as much as your guests. Whether you’re a seasoned host or just getting started, having these essentials on hand will set you up for success—cheers to hosting with ease!
PS: Check out my Entertaining Essentials page for links to my favorite, most frequently-used small appliances and table-setting pieces!