10 Tips to Be the Hostess with the Mostess This Summer

Summer in South Africa means sunshine, socialising, and of course, a good old-fashioned braai. Hosting friends and family during the festive season can be exciting but also a little daunting. These 10 practical tips will ensure your braai or function is a hit—without the stress.

1. Plan Ahead

Hosting requires effort and preparation. Create a timeline to keep everything on track, from planning the menu to setting up your space. You don’t have to share your timeline with your guests, but it will keep the function on track. Proper planning ensures your get-together runs smoothly.

2. Send Invitations Early

Calendars fill up fast this time of year, so get your invitations out well in advance. Be clear about the event details: Is it a pool party where guests need swimsuits? A formal dinner? Or a Christmas-themed gathering where guests should bring a gift? Are children welcome or not?

3. Prep Your Décor Early

Decorations can be set up weeks before the event. You can even set your table a day or two in advance. This will save you last-minute scrambling and allow you to focus on other aspects of hosting.

4. Be Present for Your Guests

Don’t get stuck in the kitchen while everyone else is enjoying the party. Prepare as much as possible beforehand so you can spend quality time with your guests.

5. Set Up a Self-Serve Bar

A self-serve drinks station is a great way to keep guests happy and hydrated. Provide a variety of beverage options. Don’t forget the jugs with water, enough ice and drink options for children. As a rule of thumb, have one water jug for every four guests to ensure everyone stays refreshed—especially in the summer heat.

6. Offer a Signature Drink

Prepare a large batch of punch or a non-alcoholic cocktails as welcome drinks. Preparing your cocktail or mocktail in advance will ensure that guests have something to drink from the moment they arrive. Don’t forget about fun and delicious garnishes for your welcome drinks.

7. Fun for Young and Old

Keep kids entertained with screen-free activities like board games or let them make stokbrood, s’mores or roast marshmallows. Include activities like lawn boules, darts, or table tennis to get both kids and adults involved.

8. Choose a Theme

A theme can tie your event together and make planning easier. Whether it’s an Italian-inspired dinner or a tropical island theme – a theme will add an extra touch of charm to your gathering. You can decide whether you want your guests to dress up for the theme or not.

9. Serve Fresh, Colourful Food

Embrace the season with seasonal fresh fruits and vegetables. Fruit and vegetable platters are perfect for a wholesome, al fresco dining experience and much healthier too.

10. Keep Bugs Away

Insect repellent is a must to keep flies and mosquitoes away from your guests and food. Use mesh or glass domes or nets to cover dishes, and consider citronella candles or sprays for added protection.

With these tips, you’ll be the ultimate hostess and the talk of the season. Now, fire up the braai, and let the festivities begin!