Hey y’all, welcome back to Keepin’ Up with KJ! I am trying to really dive into my hosting era and start having more events at home. Because let’s face it, Raven Elyse is literal hosting goals! Today, I’m sharing my top tips for hosting unforgettable events at home. Whether it’s a small gathering or a festive celebration, these tips will help you create a vibe that your guests won’t stop talking about.

1. Set the Mood with Invitations

The invitation is the first impression of your event. It sets the tone, lets guests know what to expect, and provides all the essential details. I love creating my invitations using Canva. It’s super user-friendly, with templates for every occasion that you can personalize to match your theme. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, game night, or themed party, a thoughtful invitation goes a long way in building excitement.

For last year’s Galentine’s Day event, I searched for "Galentine’s Day invites" and customized a design to fit my vision.

2. Decor on a Budget

Decor sets the scene and creates an inviting atmosphere, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Here’s how I approach decor:

Get Inspired: Pinterest is my go-to for gathering ideas and visualizing the aesthetic for my events.

Photo-Worthy Backdrop: Create a fun photo spot for guests to capture memories. For my Galentine’s Day girls' night, I set up a simple tic-tac-toe-inspired balloon wall using Amazon balloons. It was a hit!
Floral Arrangements: Flowers add an elegant touch. I buy individual bouquets from Trader Joe’s and arrange them myself. For about $36, I created several stunning arrangements.
Invest in Reusable Pieces: Opt for neutral-colored trays, tableware, and decor that you can repurpose for future events. This saves money and keeps your hosting stash versatile.

3. Food & Drinks That Delight

Keep your menu simple but cohesive. Here are some ideas to elevate your offerings:

Choose a Theme: A themed menu ties everything together. For my Galentine’s Day brunch, I served chicken and waffles, fresh fruit, and mimosas.
Signature Drinks: Add a personal touch with a specialty drink. I made a "Love Bug" cocktail with a recipe I found on TikTok. For extra flair, I used heart-shaped ice cubes and edible glitter—small details that wowed my guests.
Make It Easy: Finger foods are great for casual events. And don’t forget to consider dietary preferences or restrictions when planning your menu.

4. Plan Activities to Keep Guests Engaged

The right activities can take your event from good to great. Here are some ideas based on what worked for me:

Creative Competitions: For Galentine’s Day, I hosted a gingerbread decorating competition with themed kits from Target. It brought out everyone’s competitive side and was so much fun!
Game Night Fun: We played Taboo Uncensored, which had everyone laughing and bonding. Games are a great way to break the ice and keep energy levels high.
Gift Exchanges: Instead of traditional party favors, consider a gift exchange. I hosted a "pink elephant" (a Galentine’s twist on white elephant) with a $20 limit. Guests loved the thoughtful gifts, and it relieved me of the pressure to provide party favors.

Ginger Bread House Contest

This ginger bread house competition got a lot more competitive than I planned lol

“Pink” Elephant Gift Exhange

Set a price, upon arrival everyone picks a number. Start with the highest number and go backwards. Each gift can be stolen no more than twice. Happy gifting!

Bonus Tip: Add Personal Touches

Personal touches make your guests feel extra special. For my Galentine’s event, I wrote handwritten notes to each guest, sharing what I love about them. It’s these thoughtful details that leave a lasting impression.

Ready to Host?

Hosting at home can be so rewarding. With the right planning, your events will become cherished memories for you and your guests. Have a theme or hosting idea you’re excited about? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to help you brainstorm! And if you’re ready to dive into your hosting era, don’t forget to like and subscribe to Keepin’ Up with KJ for more tips and inspiration.

Here’s to creating events your guests will always remember!

Tips for Hosting Memorable Events at Home