My Simple Summer Hosting Checklist

I've learned something over the years about hosting. People don't remember whether your house was perfectly clean. They actually feel better about their own houses when things aren’t perfect.

They don't remember if every pillow was fluffed or if everything matched. They remember how the kids ran around for hours, they remember the new dish I introduced them to, and the remember how much we laughed and the plans we made for next week!

Some of my favorite summer nights have involved pasta salad straight out of a mixing bowl, watermelon cut up on the counter, kids running through the yard, and lanterns staying on a little longer than expected. The older I get, the more I realize people aren't coming over to inspect my house. They're coming over to spend time together. That realization has made hosting feel a lot less stressful.

These days, before anyone comes over, there are a few simple things I always do. First, I focus on the spaces people will actually use.

I don't spend hours cleaning rooms nobody will see. Instead, I focus on the kitchen, the powder room, the patio, and wherever we'll be gathering. Those are the spaces that matter most. As someone who stages homes for a living, I've learned that people are naturally drawn to the areas where life happens.

The second thing I always do is make one thing ahead of time. For me, that's usually a big batch of Italian pasta salad. I literally can’t get enough, but neither can my friends so it’s all good! Sometimes it's fruit. Sometimes it's dessert. I just like knowing there's one thing completely checked off the list before guests arrive. It makes everything else feel less rushed. Even cut up some lemons and limes - something that makes you feel prepared and when the guests walk in says, “i’m excited you’re here and I put thought into it!”

I also spend a few minutes creating places for people to gather. Sometimes that means pulling extra chairs onto the porch. Sometimes it means moving furniture around so conversations feel more natural. The best gatherings always seem to happen when people feel comfortable enough to settle in and stay awhile.

Lighting is another thing I never skip. Before the sun starts to go down, I turn on the lanterns, set out a few candles, and make sure the outdoor spaces feel warm and inviting. There’s something about soft lighting that instantly makes people relax.

And finally, I remind myself to keep it simple. The soccer goal is probably still in the yard. There are almost certainly pool towels hanging over chairs somewhere. The kids will be running in and out of the house. And honestly? That's okay. Some of my favorite summer gatherings have been the least planned. The nights where someone brought watermelon, the pasta salad was already made, the lightning bug came out, and nobody seemed to be in a hurry to leave.

Those are the moments people remember. Not perfection. Just being together, making memories! And that's always the goal at my house.

You can find fabulous and simple Summer Hosting items at my store, Lucky Lane Interiors. Visit us in store in Ellicott City, Maryland or shop online!