Nesting With Grace

by Brooke Christen

9 Things I’m So Glad I Have on Hand When Hosting

August 3, 2026

I really enjoy having people over. Whether it’s family dinner, a backyard barbecue, birthday party, or just friends stopping by, I’ve realized it’s often the little things that make hosting feel easier and more enjoyable. Over the years, I’ve found a handful of items that I now consider hosting essentials. They help guests feel comfortable, keep things running smoothly, and make our home feel warm and welcoming.

Hosting Favorites

Sources

1- Walter Water Filter Dispenser

Who knew a water filter could actually be beautiful? Our Walter water dispenser (code GRACE for 15% off) is one of those things people ask about every time they come over. It honestly looks more like home décor than a water filter, and I love that it sits out on the counter instead of being hidden away.

It holds 2.5 gallons of purified water, which is the perfect size for our family and for guests. One of my favorite little hacks was adding felt pads to the bottom so I can easily slide it over to the sink to refill the top chamber.

We love it so much, we added Walter Water Dispenser (code GRACE for 15% off) outside too! The kids and their friends are constantly outside, and I wanted them to have easy access to cold, filtered water without running in and out of the house.

We also keep a countertop ice maker outside during parties. Guests can grab ice without constantly coming inside. I also try to keep plenty of extra ice stocked in the freezer just in case.

2- Ice (Lots of It!)

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that you can never have too much ice when you’re hosting.We absolutely love our under-counter ice maker. We’ve had zero issues with it, and it’s been one of our favorite additions to our home. Just know that depending on your setup, you may need to add a drain before installation.

3- Easy Access to Cups

One of the easiest ways to make guests feel comfortable is to make everything easy to find. We keep cups in this cute flower pot (a basket is nice too!) outside so everyone can help themselves. It keeps people from asking where everything is and makes grabbing a drink simple.

If the party is inside, I like to leave cups out on an open shelf or on the counter. It makes it easy for guests to help themselves instead of having to ask where everything is.
Drink room details.

4- Frozen Cookie Dough

There’s something so welcoming about warm cookies. I love keeping frozen cookie dough on hand because it’s such an easy thing to pull out and bake if guests stay longer than expected, we decide to end the evening with something sweet, or I realize we don’t quite have enough dessert for everyone. This is our favorite baking pan! Birthday Cookie Recipe from this cookbook // Silicone Freezer Bags

5- Charging Station

Set up a little charging station with a phone charger or two. It’s one of those small details guests always appreciate, and you’ll never have to go searching for a charger when someone asks!

6- Speakers for Music

Music instantly changes the atmosphere. We almost always have fun, upbeat music playing quietly in the background. It helps people relax, fills those little moments of silence, and somehow makes everyone feel more at home. We’ve loved these speakers because they fill the house and they can run independently what is playing on your phone.

7- Tablecloths

A simple tablecloth can completely change a room. Whether it’s a holiday, birthday, or casual family dinner, I love how a tablecloth instantly adds warmth and helps set the mood. It’s one of the easiest ways to make a gathering feel a little more special.

Tablecloth Options

8- Vintage Plate Chargers

This might be one of my favorite hosting tricks. I love layering vintage plate chargers underneath simple paper plates. It instantly makes the table feel more intentional and elevated while still keeping cleanup easy.

I also love buying pieces that are beautiful enough to double as decor. If I can use something for hosting and display it around my home the rest of the year, it’s always worth it to me. You can often find gorgeous chargers at thrift stores, but if you don’t want to hunt for them, I also found some beautiful, similar options that give the same look.

9- Chips & Salsa

This is probably the easiest hosting tip on the list. I almost always keep chips and salsa in the pantry. If someone stops by unexpectedly or everyone arrives hungry, I can quickly put out a simple snack. It’s an easy way to let people know you’re genuinely happy they’re there and that you hope they’ll stay awhile!

Hosting has never been about having a perfect house or the fanciest decorations. For me, it’s about creating a space where people feel comfortable enough to stay awhile, grab another cookie, refill their water, and enjoy being together.

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