Advice
December 1, 2025
By: Hannah Beven
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Summer Entertaining at Home:
Tips for Hosting Guests
Summer is the season for reconnecting with family and friends, and hosting at home is the ultimate way to slow down and share the holiday period with loved ones. From planning your seating and sleeping arrangements to layering in thoughtful touches, how you host can make all the difference in making guests feel welcome.
As the days get warmer and the social calendar fills up, it’s the perfect time to start getting your home summer-ready, where friends and family feel comfortable to enjoy long lunches and sunset dinners.
Plan for flexible seating
Consider flexible seating that works wherever your guests gather and can move with the flow of the day. At the dining table, bench seat is perfect for fitting in a few extra people without feeling cramped. Bar stools at the kitchen bench give friends a casual spot for drinks, snacks, or a quick chat while you're cooking. In the living room, ottomans and occasional chairs can be moved around for conversation, games, or lounging.
Think about how people will move and interact in your space and plan your layout so it works seamlessly for entertaining while keeping your home stylish. With thoughtfully arranged seating, you can create a space where guests feel comfortable, included, and at ease, while your home still looks curated and put-together.
Set the table with intention
When it comes to setting the table, the little styling moments make the biggest difference. Start with a simple base – think a neutral tablecloth or runner – then layer in pieces that match the vibe of your gathering. Mix and match plates and glassware for a relaxed, lived-in feel, or keep it cohesive with a matching set for something more elevated. Add cloth napkins for texture, a few understated centrepieces like ceramic vases or a candleholder set, and you’ve instantly created a table that feels considered without trying too hard. It’s all about creating a setting that invites people to stay and keep the conversation flowing.
Make overnight stays feel like a boutique hotel
When guests stay overnight, making them feel truly comfortable is all about thoughtful little touches. A lamp nearby for late-night reading, a power outlet within reach for charging devices, or even a spare phone charger. Fresh linens, plush pillows, and extra towels are a must, and you can go the extra mile with a mini tray of travel-size toiletries or a candle; the kind of gestures that show you’ve thought of everything and make guests feel at home.
When you’re running out of room…
If you have extra guests and no spare bed, a sofa bed is your secret weapon. Sleek by day and cosy by night, it transforms your lounge into a comfortable overnight space without sacrificing style. Make the bed with fresh linens and pillows to create a space that feels inviting, curated, and ready for a restful night – perfect for both planned stays and unexpected visitors.
Add the finishing touches
Don’t forget the small details that make a big impact in your home. Lighting sets the mood – skip the harsh overhead lights and instead use diffused light with table lamps, floor lamps, or fairy lights to create a relaxed, flattering glow as the sun goes down.
Curated tableware makes every meal feel intentional and styled, while homewares – think wall art, cushions, vases, and decorative objects – bring personality and reflect your style. Seasonal touches like fresh flowers, summer-scented candles, or carefully chosen linens add colour, texture, and warmth to your space.
Whether it’s a casual weekend lunch or a festive summer dinner, hosting is all about creating a space where guests feel considered, comfortable, and cared for. Being intentional about the pieces you choose, and how your space can adapt to extra people can make all the difference. Add a few thoughtful details, and you’ll create a home that feels comfortable, stylish, and thoughtfully designed for every gathering.
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