I started crying when you offered to be a big sister to us. First, I don’t have a big sister AND my mother had alot of issues and didn’t have the capability to teach me many wholesome things. I really needed to hear this today. Sometimes I just need to feel like someone is in my corner. Thank you so much.
My aunt and uncle had a home that was so welcoming and warm. One of her tips was to always leave something undone. (Books on the coffee table, a few dishes in the sink, some shoes by the door, etc. Everything was clean, just not perfect) It takes your home from the "perfect" level to the lived in and comfortable level. It puts guests at ease and not on edge. No matter what, your guests are the whole point so visit and enjoy them!
Something I'd add is a few topics to avoid like gossip or complaining about your spouse- those topics make guests feel very uncomfortable. Oh and try to keep a calm, comfortable demeanor while hosting so your guests feel welcome and not high-maintenance if you're running around all stressed and distracted.
Yes, I love that you suggest to avoid gossip and spouse complaints!! This is so key! A group of people can take a turn for the worst very quickly with these topics!! And also fussing around people and huffing and puffing about getting things ready DOES make the guests very uncomfortable! You are spot on!!!
@@MeganFoxUnlocked Do you wear make-up and earrings? I'm just curious and I ask respectfully to learn about your faith etc and better understand others.
These are great tips! As a military spouse I've always been shy/lack of confidence in hosting (16yrs in😓) This video encouraged me. also, as a christian its NOT "showing off your home"..Its hospitable and Christ-like hosting gathering in your home💜
My goal for 2022 was to host someone every month. Not necessarily at our home each time, but planning something with someone. I have found that Simple, no fuss food is the way to go so I can feel relaxed and pay more attention to my guests instead of stressing about food being perfect
Loved this video & Love your perspective on hosting! I’m 49 and have hosted often over the years, but am always looking to improve so I can stress less and enJOY guests. Thank you for being so practical but fun. You share great, doable ideas and always encourage the right spirit. How blessed are your family and friends, to have someone so intentional in their lives!
Megan, I'm watching you talk, with your beautiful fireplace in the background. I'm SO GLAD you didn't paint it white, like EVERYBODY ELSE. I love the natural colors and coziness of it. Once you paint brick, there's no going back. I love your heart for hospitality. It is SUCH a blessing to open your home to others. My folks always had guests over, so I grew up loving company. My husband soon caught on to the blessings derived from having guests over. Fast forward 25 years, my new son-in-law also soon caught on to my daughter's passion for hosting. And, you're right...having guests over frequently gives the extra motivation often needed to complete extra housekeeping and house renovations.
I love your channel. I oftentimes forget that we are not so far apart in age. I am a 23 year old Christian, and I struggle with seeing my peers (that are actually your age) party all weekend and talk about it all week at work. I just have to say it is extremely refreshing to see another woman be successful in valuing the same things I do and model those values in an "older sister" way (I don't have an older sister). It makes me feel much less isolated. So thank you. Blessings from Virginia.
You keep being you Abigail! You are doing amazing 👏 Remember God's way is not the world's way, so things will be tougher but so worth it to honor God ✨️ 💛 I'm so impressed! I didn't realize how important a relationship with Jesus truly is until I was 30
Hey Abigail, I feel the same way sometimes. I'm 22, and a lot of my peers are out partying all the time as well. I really do appreciate watching Megan, because like you said she is like an 'older sister' in a lot of ways, and shares many values with me. I'm from Virginia to btw! Blessings :)
Megan you have such a sweet, comforting, and practical spirit. You also attract the best commenters! I love your content and the people who comment on it so much that it's all around encouraging, inspiring and Relaxing to my heart!
Wonderful video, Megan! We just had friends over from church last night for brownies, apple crisp, and coffee/tea. Very relaxed and cozy evening in. I always worry that my home is not “perfect” but I need to focus on being welcoming and making my guests feel at home!
I love this video! I love to host and have taught myself how to do so. Making drinks readily available was my first thing I focused on. And treats for if someone stopped over with kids. Having something I could offer them. Having cookie dough readily available in the fridge that can be popped into the oven. Having crackers and cheese that can easily be brought out. I've been dreaming of hosting a couple friends for a pasta making party. Making ravioli and then a meal with them. I think it would be so much fun! There is a lot to hosting but it can be so much fun when you don't sweat the small stuff and just welcome people into your home. I'm always told my home is very welcoming but that's been intentional.
Oh! Also I'm also a coffee lover and did order the coffee you shared about. That another thing I learned to have available including decaf. Yes I have folding chairs to pull out if we need extra chairs.
If you have prescription medications in your purse that is hanging on a coat rack or unsecured medicine cabinets, take action to be mindful of small children. Put guests ' purses away in a secure area for this reason, too. A toddler in my town took blood pressure medication from someone's purse a few years ago, suddenly felt sleepy and passed away during a family party. I always remember that when I host now.
@@kindnessmatters4068 oh wow! That's so scary. I'm glad she's fine. When my elderly in-laws visit, they stay with us for weeks and bring a locking suitcase for their prescriptions after my middle child climbed to find them at the top of a cupboard. It's so much better to be safe than forever sorry.
I love that my friends (and now me!) Are now sending official evites or making a party flyer on canva and texting the photo to everyone to invite them to every type of get together. It’s so cute, makes me feel appreciated because they put so much thought into the invite, and it’s usually for something like a pumpkin carving party or waffle bar, or sledding
I really love hosting and have done a lot since my husband and I got married. The one thing I learned from my friend this last weekend is not to do too much. She welcomed us over and didn't over do it and we still danced for 3 hours. We paid no attention to decorations or any of the things I spend way too much time moving around. I also read Having a Mary Heart in a Martha world, highly recommend.
We would like to Thank You for coming into our home each week. You, your family bring a positive spirit to us. Two Old Folks, Steve and Brenda Winchester Virginia
Excellent stuff! Thanks for the encouragement. I love to host, but don’t get to do it a ton because I’m currently single. I used to host more and I just love having my house full of family and friends and seeing everyone enjoying the food and fellowship. :) A couple mental notes I made as I listened are 1) The first time I hosted my in-laws, they brought a pizza for dinner from a place we all love, and all I had to worry about was cleaning the house. (Which let me tell you, I wanted it spotless because my MIL is a meticulous housekeeper. 😆) Second thing was that I love to make a list with my menu! That was my mom’s way of not forgetting little things and also to make sure everything was prepared. She will even write down times of when certain things need to go in the oven to be done in time… I love to prepare more, the older I get!
My husband and I can seat about 8-10 people (including us) with our existing sofas and table chairs, but we have folding chairs ready to use, too, if we need more! This was a great video! I am newly married and have been getting into hosting. It is nice having some extra tips, ideas, and reassurance.
Thank you for this video. I've just never gotten comfortable hosting and I would so like to be that person. I think I need to dial back on expectations and simply do it! I will also add that talking to more experienced relatives about how to plan - especially the cooking - can be immensely helpfull. If you are willing to take advice they can often help you structure the process or give advice on a menu that's feasible (a.k.a. don't attempt to make a complicated starter, main course AND dessert. Pick one and keep the rest super simple).
I've been married over 25 years and there were some good tips in here for me! We are always in the midst of renovations and I haven't invited people over at times because I'm embarrassed at how my house looks, but I am trying to do better with that and know people are here to see us and will have grace, as you said, about holes in our walls or unfinished floors! Thanks for such a comprehensive video, I think a lot of young homemakers can get a lot out of your tips and tricks! Have a fabulous weekend! 🍂🧡🍁
We have been using the same wooden folding chairs for the past 45 years. They were antiques when we got them as castoffs from a church and they are still going strong. We even used them at a very fancy, but rustic family wedding at an art gallery. My friend sent out a video today of Thanksgiving 1992. We were all so young!
I absolutely hate hate hate having company! I don’t like people in my fridge, putting cups on my wood table without a coaster, and kids working up my dogs and them running around everywhere. I wish I felt differently but it gives me the most massive anxiety because I am a bit of a control freak. I do it for my husband but if I could choose, we’d rarely have company. I am hosting thanksgiving this year and I am watching this in hopes of making this process a bit easier for me.
I love the idea of covering the basics! As someone who had a mother that wasn't capable of doing things like hosting or most house hold tasks she couldn't teach me anything about it. So I have had a long journey to learn these skills the hard way.... Now that I have young kids i really want to improve my homemaking skills.
Thank you for sharing. I'm an older person and love hearing suggestions from a younger energetic person. So many of your suggestions would have helped me feel less stressed when I was young. LISTEN UP ALL YOU YOUNG FOLKS, MEGAN'S IDEAS ARE GREAT! Once again, thank you Megan for sharing. God bless you and your family. 💖💖
This is such a helpful video for people of all ages! Love how you break it down to its most basic components. Love that you get into the specifics of how you break the preparation down from 21 days before to the day of the event. We always make sure there is a chair for everyone even if it is mismatching, folding, has to be brought by our closest relative or friend, etc. Everyone needs a comfortable (enough) place to sit. Babies can sit on laps or blankets on the floor. The only exception would be an "everyone is going to stay standing so they mingle" party. Then no one gets a chair except the elderly or disabled.
I loved this! Years ago I listened to a podcast and she recommended saying “I’m going to be making X, you can bring anything you’d like or nothing at all!” I’ve found that a much better replacement to “can you bring a salad?” Etc. It gives permission for someone in a busy season or on an off day to grab a packaged food, or come empty handed (I don’t think anyone has ever done that. But I love that approach! My favorite simple hosting is just serving watermelon! It is the perfect summer play date invitation, inexpensive and delicious, serves many!
I've been married 48 years and like having people over for hot dog roasts over the campfire I have all the fixins and usually a pot of baked beans and usually a store bought dessert like brownies so easy and fun
Tip---- don't forget to clean your microwave! If people bring a dish, they may need to heat something up real quick and you don't want them to find your microwave dirty! 🤦
I like to try having as much done ahead of time, so as not to be rushing around finishing up when guests have arrived . Once guests arrive I like to be there interacting with them. Also prefer washing dishes / cleaning up, after everyone has left.
Thank you for sharing! One pot meals work really well for me when people are coming over. One of the reasons I prefer the cooler weather, so I can do all the soups and chilis my heart desires! I would also recommend always inquiring about food allergies. They seem to be more and more common these days.
♡Yes good idea... I have turned down invites because I felt silly having to tell people I am deathly allergic to all red meat, pork, gelatin, and all dairy products. 😧 It's from a tick bite I got this past spring. My throat and mouth swells up. I carry epi pens with me. I can't even cook the red meats and pork, or I start reacting from just smelling the fumes. It's called Alpha-gal syndrome. It's a carbohydrate that only mammals produce. We can eat red meats and things with it in it but once it gets in our blood stream we become allergic. So I appreciate you thinking of that!! I have such good dear friends and they have invited us over, but I don't want to be a bother so I have just said no. Makes me so sad 😞
Thanks for all the great tips! Our culture is pretty similar to yours in lots of ways, so yes, we use folding chairs also. I loved all your ideas and I agree that hosting is something that comes with practice!! 😊
Nice information. When I was younger I wanted everything perfect when we had guest over. I have learned over the years to not let things get to me. I am more prepared and laid back. We have 8 folding chairs and 6 dining chairs we use when we have big get togethers. Of course they are used with family especially. I am the oldest of 6 so when we have a get together it is big! Lol.
Love this video! So so helpful! We also do folding chairs with large company. I come from a family of 11 kids so I think we had to make sure we had seating for guests as well.😆
My mom makes a huge batch of donuts in the winter. She sends out invitations to the whole neighborhood for a drop in during a slow winter Saturday afternoon.
What I like is just doing what we are already doing to host. My friend and I get together once every other week to sew. All we have to do is put some tea water on and maybe a batch of cookies and just sew. The more often you do hospitality, the less you have to worry about preparing for them because people get more comfortable
Agreed about the food element. Every time Jesus met with someone and wanted to get to know them better, he met them where they were at + with a meal. It allows people to relax, and when they’re fed they’re content lol no hangry guests! 😂🎉
I do have a big sister and you and her are sooooo a like when it comes to your hosting and homemaking. She was a preschool teacher so maybe that’s one reason you are so similair. My husbands family loves when the youngest host in their new homes and it’s so intimidating but they are so loving and forgiving about it so it’s a great way to be forced into hosting:)
Yes I need this video!! Hosting is scary for me- I think I worry to much about everything. Is my house clean enough? Is the food good? Did I make enough? Is everyone having fun?😬
MEGAN! I’m a few hours late but I’m starting. Wow nice topic to kick on. Hosting is a place of so much work, love and expectations. I used the tips u gave in a previous video for our first big hosting at home. And helped immensely! Thanks dear! Getting into the video now!! Love ❤️
Thank you for being you and sharing your skills. You are very engaging, fun, and energetic! I'm always up for a Megan Fox video!!!love to you and family!!🤗🤗🤗🤗🌴🌴🌴🌴🌴
I would love to be an awesome host, but for some reason I struggle with a heart for hosting. Im an introvert, so Im not good at explaining where everything is and to help yourself, restrooms are down the hall, etc. My first event hosting after being married, I felt so inadequate. Your tips are helpful! Ive learned too to watch what other people do when hosting stuff at their houses, so I feel better prepared now. Hopefully I'll gradually get to be an expert host! Also, what are your thoughts on gifts for the host?
Looove all of these hosting tips! Thank you for sharing! 🙌🏼 It has definitely helped with my thought process for hosting our friends Thanksgiving feast and Christmas breakfast in our first year being married, with a newborn! 🧡🌲
@@MeganFoxUnlocked I love that your goal is to help the new homemakers-where I live it’s not always easy to find people who offer to help the newbies-they give a lot of grace to newbies, but expect them to figure it out by themselves. But for ideas-where I struggle especially with bigger crowds is focusing on getting it all ready and making sure everything smoothly, I often find it hard to talk more than small talk when the guests are actually there. Maybe it’s just practice needed, or more prep, but any tips would be great 😊
I would be all about a Homemaking with Littles series!! How to keep your house looking calm and sane when you're so busy with toddlers that there's so little time!
Thank you so much for this video. I’m the oldest sister in my family so I love this because I didn’t have a sister older than me other than one who was put up for adoption before I was born, so I never got to meet her!
I'm in the 50s age group and I've had a tea party with my neighbors women friends. Only 2 so, I would have some different flavors of teas and I asked my friends to bring their favorite desserts they like to eat. I would serve my favorite dessert too. And if there homemade desserts maybe u can share recipes with your neighbors.
We do folding chairs. I have a rather large family, otherwise not everyone whould bei able to sit. In the beginning my mother automatically brought her folding chairs and often times she will bring an extra jug of coffee or extra teaspoons since these things seem to run low often at birthday parties in our family 😄
Hi Megan, you are such an inspiration. The idea of hosting even a few people completely intimates me, oh yea and so does baking with yeast. I’ll be watching this series and taking notes.
Good job on today's topic, Megan!! ♡Would love a interview type video with your mom about hosting, if she would do it... or anyone you look up to, for that matter! My own Mom was so so good at hosting (pastor's wife)! I learned a ton from her, and even though I am still learning now from experience, it did help my confidence level so much to already know as much as I did.
I can relate to you. :) I’ve had wonderful examples (my MIL is a pastor’s wife and EXCELLENT homemaker and my mom hosts all the time. We grew up often hosting missionaries or preachers who were visiting our church), but I still want to learn more and get better at it!
I loved watched this video. I hope someday we have a big enough house to host large gatherings. I love hosting people, but between my husband's work schedule and a really small house, it doesn't make me feel like I can host regularly. You certainly sound like a well seasoned hostess
Hi Lindsay, It’s very rewarding to host. I don’t think people Pay attention to how big or small is your house. It’s more the idea of them feeling welcomed. I live in an RV now, it’s so close to the military base. I have hosted several military youth and they love coming even if it’s so tiny here. They even have brought more friends. I have been greatly blessed to host people. I hope you could soon receive the blessing of being a hostess.❤🤗🥰
Looking forward to the rest of the series. Beautiful dress you’re wearing! I host family for Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Eve. We are able to use our church fellowship hall next door for the large crowds. As far as hosting others in our home, some friends don’t live close by and others are church members. My husband is the Pastor and I don’t want someone feeling slighted if I don’t get around to inviting everyone. Love all your videos. Take care and God bless y’all. 😀❤️
I also was a pastor's wife. We picked Thursday nights as our "company dinner" night. We had a list of all the church families and we worked our way through the membership one week at a time. It was good for us, and hopefully a blessing to our guests, as well.
Dear Megan, since you are such a great coffee lover as I am, here a proposal for great coffee, that is affordable but also a great sensory experience every morning: 1. Buy yourself a middle priced coffee grinder (about 25$), 2. get a Bialetti espresso maker Moka express (about 45$/6 cups), 3. if possible freshly roasted coffee beans from a local roaster but if not you can order some online and get them way more cheaper and tastier than premade, processed and very much overpriced coffee from any kind of pods. And if you want to take it to an other level: 4. buy some paper filters for the aeropress which fit the 6 cup standard Bialetti (600 filter papers around 10$). It is a small investment in the beginning and I admit in the beginning it might take some experimenting on which sort of coffee, which roast etc. suits one taste more and how much coffee powder for which cup/glas, but after figuring that out, every cup is going to be a blessing and this even on a manageable budget. No fancy coffee machine needed or super expensive cups. I have found my favorite coffee beans which I drink for years, but when traveling and passing a local coffee roaster from a different city I‘ll buy some new beans to keep it excited. I‘ve learned a lot about coffee and about brewing it by following a fellow RUclipsr James Hoffman which I can recommend to anyone who wants to learn more about coffee making. Cheers! ☕️
I absolutely love your videos. Thanks for giving me some inspiration all the time. But I have to admit I was laughing a bit... we host almost every weekend. Between 3 and 30 people as we have a big Catholic family... and you always need to have too much as our tradition is to prepare too much in case a poor man is walking in to eat. 21 days to prepare sound funny to me. I just prepare for 3 days before Christmas when our tradition is to serve 12 meals for one dinner ... times about 20 close family members 😂
Ahhh... and to answer your question... we have about 30 chairs in living room, kitchen and office room and about 20 more which we store in a gardenhouse
So informative. It’s across up between goi gvto his sisters down the street or cater or cook at home. Bought pumpkin beautiful dollar store plates and bowls so beautiful. ❤😊
I started crying when you offered to be a big sister to us. First, I don’t have a big sister AND my mother had alot of issues and didn’t have the capability to teach me many wholesome things. I really needed to hear this today. Sometimes I just need to feel like someone is in my corner. Thank you so much.
Same here 🥹
I felt the same way that you want to be "that big sister" for me 🥺 that really impacted me! I appreciate those words
My aunt and uncle had a home that was so welcoming and warm. One of her tips was to always leave something undone. (Books on the coffee table, a few dishes in the sink, some shoes by the door, etc. Everything was clean, just not perfect) It takes your home from the "perfect" level to the lived in and comfortable level. It puts guests at ease and not on edge.
No matter what, your guests are the whole point so visit and enjoy them!
Something I'd add is a few topics to avoid like gossip or complaining about your spouse- those topics make guests feel very uncomfortable. Oh and try to keep a calm, comfortable demeanor while hosting so your guests feel welcome and not high-maintenance if you're running around all stressed and distracted.
Good suggestions!! ♡
Good! And don't wear anything too fussy. You don't want to have to worry about your appearance!
Yes, I love that you suggest to avoid gossip and spouse complaints!! This is so key! A group of people can take a turn for the worst very quickly with these topics!!
And also fussing around people and huffing and puffing about getting things ready DOES make the guests very uncomfortable! You are spot on!!!
Yes!!! This is so good!
@@MeganFoxUnlocked Do you wear make-up and earrings? I'm just curious and I ask respectfully to learn about your faith etc and better understand others.
These are great tips! As a military spouse I've always been shy/lack of confidence in hosting (16yrs in😓) This video encouraged me. also, as a christian its NOT "showing off your home"..Its hospitable and Christ-like hosting gathering in your home💜
Fellow milspouse too 🙋🏻♀️
Almost 6 years in and I've only invited people over a handful of times.. It's something I really want to work on!
My goal for 2022 was to host someone every month. Not necessarily at our home each time, but planning something with someone. I have found that Simple, no fuss food is the way to go so I can feel relaxed and pay more attention to my guests instead of stressing about food being perfect
Loved this video & Love your perspective on hosting! I’m 49 and have hosted often over the years, but am always looking to improve so I can stress less and enJOY guests. Thank you for being so practical but fun. You share great, doable ideas and always encourage the right spirit. How blessed are your family and friends, to have someone so intentional in their lives!
Megan, I'm watching you talk, with your beautiful fireplace in the background. I'm SO GLAD you didn't paint it white, like EVERYBODY ELSE. I love the natural colors and coziness of it. Once you paint brick, there's no going back.
I love your heart for hospitality. It is SUCH a blessing to open your home to others. My folks always had guests over, so I grew up loving company. My husband soon caught on to the blessings derived from having guests over. Fast forward 25 years, my new son-in-law also soon caught on to my daughter's passion for hosting.
And, you're right...having guests over frequently gives the extra motivation often needed to complete extra housekeeping and house renovations.
I love your channel. I oftentimes forget that we are not so far apart in age. I am a 23 year old Christian, and I struggle with seeing my peers (that are actually your age) party all weekend and talk about it all week at work. I just have to say it is extremely refreshing to see another woman be successful in valuing the same things I do and model those values in an "older sister" way (I don't have an older sister). It makes me feel much less isolated. So thank you. Blessings from Virginia.
Ugh yes! Its so hard to hear others talk about and sometimes really disturbing
You keep being you Abigail! You are doing amazing 👏
Remember God's way is not the world's way, so things will be tougher but so worth it to honor God ✨️ 💛
I'm so impressed! I didn't realize how important a relationship with Jesus truly is until I was 30
Abigail, you are definitely not so far apart in age. LOL! Looks like you need to host a get together with people of like values!
Hey Abigail, I feel the same way sometimes. I'm 22, and a lot of my peers are out partying all the time as well. I really do appreciate watching Megan, because like you said she is like an 'older sister' in a lot of ways, and shares many values with me. I'm from Virginia to btw! Blessings :)
Megan you have such a sweet, comforting, and practical spirit.
You also attract the best commenters! I love your content and the people who comment on it so much that it's all around encouraging, inspiring and Relaxing to my heart!
Wonderful video, Megan! We just had friends over from church last night for brownies, apple crisp, and coffee/tea. Very relaxed and cozy evening in. I always worry that my home is not “perfect” but I need to focus on being welcoming and making my guests feel at home!
I love this video! I love to host and have taught myself how to do so. Making drinks readily available was my first thing I focused on. And treats for if someone stopped over with kids. Having something I could offer them. Having cookie dough readily available in the fridge that can be popped into the oven. Having crackers and cheese that can easily be brought out. I've been dreaming of hosting a couple friends for a pasta making party. Making ravioli and then a meal with them. I think it would be so much fun! There is a lot to hosting but it can be so much fun when you don't sweat the small stuff and just welcome people into your home. I'm always told my home is very welcoming but that's been intentional.
Oh! Also I'm also a coffee lover and did order the coffee you shared about. That another thing I learned to have available including decaf.
Yes I have folding chairs to pull out if we need extra chairs.
I love your festive socks when you're scrubbing in the bathroom in your intro. So cute!
If you have prescription medications in your purse that is hanging on a coat rack or unsecured medicine cabinets, take action to be mindful of small children. Put guests ' purses away in a secure area for this reason, too. A toddler in my town took blood pressure medication from someone's purse a few years ago, suddenly felt sleepy and passed away during a family party. I always remember that when I host now.
no no no no no!!!! This is horrible! Thanks for the heads up!!
Yes 😔 may daughter has gotten ahold of benadryl twice. We were lucky and God kept her with us... It has made me so aware now.
@@kindnessmatters4068 oh wow! That's so scary. I'm glad she's fine. When my elderly in-laws visit, they stay with us for weeks and bring a locking suitcase for their prescriptions after my middle child climbed to find them at the top of a cupboard. It's so much better to be safe than forever sorry.
very helpful, thank you
Thanks for sharing!! This is helpful for everyone . I will definitely try to remember this. So sorry for the family tho.
I love that my friends (and now me!) Are now sending official evites or making a party flyer on canva and texting the photo to everyone to invite them to every type of get together. It’s so cute, makes me feel appreciated because they put so much thought into the invite, and it’s usually for something like a pumpkin carving party or waffle bar, or sledding
Megan, your face is glowing today! It's such a blessing to watch your videos.
I thought the same thing!! She really looks stunning in this video and is literally glowing!
I really love hosting and have done a lot since my husband and I got married. The one thing I learned from my friend this last weekend is not to do too much. She welcomed us over and didn't over do it and we still danced for 3 hours. We paid no attention to decorations or any of the things I spend way too much time moving around. I also read Having a Mary Heart in a Martha world, highly recommend.
Thank you! I host a lot but sometimes I get overwhelmed. It was fun to listen to your tips and experiences! Good reminders. 😊
Love your dress! So pretty 🤩
I've never thought about hosting as opening your home to people! That's a while new perspective to me! Thank you!
Love your dress !
Very informative info you've
provided in this video. Thank You!
Your dresses are always so pretty, your iced coffees always look so delicious and so does your food. You are goals!!!
We would like to Thank You for coming into our home each week.
You, your family bring a positive spirit to us.
Two Old Folks,
Steve and Brenda
Winchester Virginia
Excellent stuff! Thanks for the encouragement. I love to host, but don’t get to do it a ton because I’m currently single. I used to host more and I just love having my house full of family and friends and seeing everyone enjoying the food and fellowship. :) A couple mental notes I made as I listened are 1) The first time I hosted my in-laws, they brought a pizza for dinner from a place we all love, and all I had to worry about was cleaning the house. (Which let me tell you, I wanted it spotless because my MIL is a meticulous housekeeper. 😆) Second thing was that I love to make a list with my menu! That was my mom’s way of not forgetting little things and also to make sure everything was prepared. She will even write down times of when certain things need to go in the oven to be done in time… I love to prepare more, the older I get!
My husband and I can seat about 8-10 people (including us) with our existing sofas and table chairs, but we have folding chairs ready to use, too, if we need more!
This was a great video! I am newly married and have been getting into hosting. It is nice having some extra tips, ideas, and reassurance.
Very good points. I also like to tell people where the bathroom is when they come so they can feel at home and not have to ASK!
Thank you for this video. I've just never gotten comfortable hosting and I would so like to be that person. I think I need to dial back on expectations and simply do it!
I will also add that talking to more experienced relatives about how to plan - especially the cooking - can be immensely helpfull. If you are willing to take advice they can often help you structure the process or give advice on a menu that's feasible (a.k.a. don't attempt to make a complicated starter, main course AND dessert. Pick one and keep the rest super simple).
I adore that dress that you are wearing! So beautiful!!
I've been married over 25 years and there were some good tips in here for me! We are always in the midst of renovations and I haven't invited people over at times because I'm embarrassed at how my house looks, but I am trying to do better with that and know people are here to see us and will have grace, as you said, about holes in our walls or unfinished floors! Thanks for such a comprehensive video, I think a lot of young homemakers can get a lot out of your tips and tricks! Have a fabulous weekend! 🍂🧡🍁
I love to have people in our home but I husband is a shy person. When I do host I have so much fun! Thank you for your help/tips!
We have been using the same wooden folding chairs for the past 45 years. They were antiques when we got them as castoffs from a church and they are still going strong. We even used them at a very fancy, but rustic family wedding at an art gallery. My friend sent out a video today of Thanksgiving 1992. We were all so young!
I absolutely hate hate hate having company! I don’t like people in my fridge, putting cups on my wood table without a coaster, and kids working up my dogs and them running around everywhere. I wish I felt differently but it gives me the most massive anxiety because I am a bit of a control freak. I do it for my husband but if I could choose, we’d rarely have company. I am hosting thanksgiving this year and I am watching this in hopes of making this process a bit easier for me.
I love the idea of covering the basics! As someone who had a mother that wasn't capable of doing things like hosting or most house hold tasks she couldn't teach me anything about it. So I have had a long journey to learn these skills the hard way.... Now that I have young kids i really want to improve my homemaking skills.
Thank you for sharing. I'm an older person and love hearing suggestions from a younger energetic person. So many of your suggestions would have helped me feel less stressed when I was young. LISTEN UP ALL YOU YOUNG FOLKS, MEGAN'S IDEAS ARE GREAT! Once again, thank you Megan for sharing. God bless you and your family. 💖💖
This is such a helpful video for people of all ages! Love how you break it down to its most basic components. Love that you get into the specifics of how you break the preparation down from 21 days before to the day of the event. We always make sure there is a chair for everyone even if it is mismatching, folding, has to be brought by our closest relative or friend, etc. Everyone needs a comfortable (enough) place to sit. Babies can sit on laps or blankets on the floor. The only exception would be an "everyone is going to stay standing so they mingle" party. Then no one gets a chair except the elderly or disabled.
I loved this! Years ago I listened to a podcast and she recommended saying “I’m going to be making X, you can bring anything you’d like or nothing at all!” I’ve found that a much better replacement to “can you bring a salad?” Etc. It gives permission for someone in a busy season or on an off day to grab a packaged food, or come empty handed (I don’t think anyone has ever done that. But I love that approach! My favorite simple hosting is just serving watermelon! It is the perfect summer play date invitation, inexpensive and delicious, serves many!
Can I ask what podcast it was?!
@@macprincess2 Jessica dalquist extraordinary moms podcast and several seasons back she had one on inviting people over/ hosting.
Folding chairs have always been what I’ve grown up with, no shame. Great tips Megan thank you 😊
I appreciated listening to this. The more passionate you feel about a topic, I've noticed you speak very fast.
I love love love this new series! Great idea Megan! :)
Really wanting to know where you got your beautiful dress!
Thank you for the tips!
I've been married 48 years and like having people over for hot dog roasts over the campfire I have all the fixins and usually a pot of baked beans and usually a store bought dessert like brownies so easy and fun
Our game night friends do bring your own take out and the host provides dessert and beverages. We all love doing this since we have kids.
That's a neat set up! Then you only have to worry about 2 things and not a whole meal, and you share in the cost!
Thank u sooo much for the printable!
Yay! Thank you for this video!! We'll needed!!
Tip---- don't forget to clean your microwave! If people bring a dish, they may need to heat something up real quick and you don't want them to find your microwave dirty! 🤦
Good point. That is always very revealing!
I like to try having as much done ahead of time, so as not to be rushing around finishing up when guests have arrived . Once guests arrive I like to be there interacting with them. Also prefer washing dishes / cleaning up, after everyone has left.
Really enjoyed this! Definitely looking forward to the other videos in this series! 🤍
🧡We love hosting family & friends
I love to decorate, cook & entertain.
BTW….I am the older sister
I enjoy your videos
So funny, God's been working on my heart towards hospitality. And here you go and do a video
Thank you for sharing! One pot meals work really well for me when people are coming over. One of the reasons I prefer the cooler weather, so I can do all the soups and chilis my heart desires! I would also recommend always inquiring about food allergies. They seem to be more and more common these days.
♡Yes good idea... I have turned down invites because I felt silly having to tell people I am deathly allergic to all red meat, pork, gelatin, and all dairy products. 😧
It's from a tick bite I got this past spring. My throat and mouth swells up. I carry epi pens with me. I can't even cook the red meats and pork, or I start reacting from just smelling the fumes. It's called Alpha-gal syndrome. It's a carbohydrate that only mammals produce. We can eat red meats and things with it in it but once it gets in our blood stream we become allergic.
So I appreciate you thinking of that!! I have such good dear friends and they have invited us over, but I don't want to be a bother so I have just said no. Makes me so sad 😞
Thanks for all the great tips! Our culture is pretty similar to yours in lots of ways, so yes, we use folding chairs also. I loved all your ideas and I agree that hosting is something that comes with practice!! 😊
You should do a hosting planner page like with a checklist and areas to plan what theme you're doing etc.... guest list.
Loved this video!! You are so much more mature than I when I was the same age. I learned a lot of simple ideas. Thank you!
Nice information. When I was younger I wanted everything perfect when we had guest over. I have learned over the years to not let things get to me. I am more prepared and laid back. We have 8 folding chairs and 6 dining chairs we use when we have big get togethers. Of course they are used with family especially. I am the oldest of 6 so when we have a get together it is big! Lol.
Love this video! So so helpful! We also do folding chairs with large company. I come from a family of 11 kids so I think we had to make sure we had seating for guests as well.😆
Great video! Lots of Helpful tips!
Where did you purchase the dress you’re wearing? It’s beautiful!
My mom makes a huge batch of donuts in the winter. She sends out invitations to the whole neighborhood for a drop in during a slow winter Saturday afternoon.
I'm looking forward to similar videos like this. 😊
What I like is just doing what we are already doing to host. My friend and I get together once every other week to sew. All we have to do is put some tea water on and maybe a batch of cookies and just sew. The more often you do hospitality, the less you have to worry about preparing for them because people get more comfortable
Looking forward to the rest of this series! 😊❤
Thank you for encouraging us to host more. It really is a blessing, and just takes a bit of planning to make it happen.
Lots of good options. Goes well with my love for hosting! Thank you.
Agreed about the food element. Every time Jesus met with someone and wanted to get to know them better, he met them where they were at + with a meal. It allows people to relax, and when they’re fed they’re content lol no hangry guests! 😂🎉
Good point! Should have included that too!!
Excited about this series!
I do have a big sister and you and her are sooooo a like when it comes to your hosting and homemaking. She was a preschool teacher so maybe that’s one reason you are so similair. My husbands family loves when the youngest host in their new homes and it’s so intimidating but they are so loving and forgiving about it so it’s a great way to be forced into hosting:)
haha! Nobody's forcing you! So good job!
This was GREAT! I think I'm going to LOVE this series 😍
You sound like a lovely host! I just told my husband, I want to go visit Megan! 💖
Yes I need this video!! Hosting is scary for me- I think I worry to much about everything. Is my house clean enough? Is the food good? Did I make enough? Is everyone having fun?😬
I know. It's a lot to juggle! That's why I recommend starting small!
I'm the same way! Especially since I'm shy I'm also nervous to make sure it's not awkwardly quiet 😂
MEGAN! I’m a few hours late but I’m starting. Wow nice topic to kick on. Hosting is a place of so much work, love and expectations. I used the tips u gave in a previous video for our first big hosting at home. And helped immensely! Thanks dear!
Getting into the video now!! Love ❤️
Your skin looks glowing.You should share your skin care routine😇
Thank you for being you and sharing your skills. You are very engaging, fun, and energetic! I'm always up for a Megan Fox video!!!love to you and family!!🤗🤗🤗🤗🌴🌴🌴🌴🌴
I would love to be an awesome host, but for some reason I struggle with a heart for hosting. Im an introvert, so Im not good at explaining where everything is and to help yourself, restrooms are down the hall, etc. My first event hosting after being married, I felt so inadequate. Your tips are helpful! Ive learned too to watch what other people do when hosting stuff at their houses, so I feel better prepared now. Hopefully I'll gradually get to be an expert host! Also, what are your thoughts on gifts for the host?
Ooh I'm excited to watch this one, I think it was made for me 😅 love the idea of a series!
I'm so glad!
Looove all of these hosting tips! Thank you for sharing! 🙌🏼 It has definitely helped with my thought process for hosting our friends Thanksgiving feast and Christmas breakfast in our first year being married, with a newborn! 🧡🌲
perfect timing megan! i just got my toddler down for her nap and so now I can relax and be inspired! Thank you!🙏🙏💖💖💖
Perfect!
Me too a day later :) I enjoy your videos!!
We just had our patio poured today
Love love your idea for the new series!
Awesome! Any specific topics you'd like to hear!?
@@MeganFoxUnlocked I love that your goal is to help the new homemakers-where I live it’s not always easy to find people who offer to help the newbies-they give a lot of grace to newbies, but expect them to figure it out by themselves.
But for ideas-where I struggle especially with bigger crowds is focusing on getting it all ready and making sure everything smoothly, I often find it hard to talk more than small talk when the guests are actually there. Maybe it’s just practice needed, or more prep, but any tips would be great 😊
I would be all about a Homemaking with Littles series!! How to keep your house looking calm and sane when you're so busy with toddlers that there's so little time!
Love the blue potty💙
Love that you have a kitchen radio💕
Thank you so much for this video. I’m the oldest sister in my family so I love this because I didn’t have a sister older than me other than one who was put up for adoption before I was born, so I never got to meet her!
Love this series and the tips!!
I'm in the 50s age group and I've had a tea party with my neighbors women friends. Only 2 so, I would have some different flavors of teas and I asked my friends to bring their favorite desserts they like to eat. I would serve my favorite dessert too. And if there homemade desserts maybe u can share recipes with your neighbors.
Thank you for today’s video. I Love to Host! ♥️ Would love to host more.
My goal this year is an apartment- this is so aspirational.
We do folding chairs. I have a rather large family, otherwise not everyone whould bei able to sit. In the beginning my mother automatically brought her folding chairs and often times she will bring an extra jug of coffee or extra teaspoons since these things seem to run low often at birthday parties in our family 😄
Serving spoons. That's what I always run out of!
Hi Megan, you are such an inspiration. The idea of hosting even a few people completely intimates me, oh yea and so does baking with yeast. I’ll be watching this series and taking notes.
Good job on today's topic, Megan!!
♡Would love a interview type video with your mom about hosting, if she would do it... or anyone you look up to, for that matter! My own Mom was so so good at hosting (pastor's wife)! I learned a ton from her, and even though I am still learning now from experience, it did help my confidence level so much to already know as much as I did.
I'll ask my mom. She would have so much good advice, but you all might be scary to her!
@@MeganFoxUnlocked 😀🤍🤞
I can relate to you. :) I’ve had wonderful examples (my MIL is a pastor’s wife and EXCELLENT homemaker and my mom hosts all the time. We grew up often hosting missionaries or preachers who were visiting our church), but I still want to learn more and get better at it!
This is such a cute video 😊 this is very similar to my hosting style!
I'm exhausted just thinking about doing all of this! We work full time so maybe it's different
I loved watched this video. I hope someday we have a big enough house to host large gatherings. I love hosting people, but between my husband's work schedule and a really small house, it doesn't make me feel like I can host regularly. You certainly sound like a well seasoned hostess
Hi Lindsay,
It’s very rewarding to host.
I don’t think people Pay attention to how big or small is your house. It’s more the idea of them feeling welcomed. I live in an RV now, it’s so close to the military base. I have hosted several military youth and they love coming even if it’s so tiny here. They even have brought more friends.
I have been greatly blessed to host people.
I hope you could soon receive the blessing of being a hostess.❤🤗🥰
Video starts at 4:36
Very nice idea Megan. I always welcome advice on entertaining😊🧡🍂🍁
Good afternoon from Texas I just love your videos may God bless you and love you
This was fun!
Definitely folding chairs!!
Looking forward to the rest of the series. Beautiful dress you’re wearing! I host family for Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Eve. We are able to use our church fellowship hall next door for the large crowds. As far as hosting others in our home, some friends don’t live close by and others are church members. My husband is the Pastor and I don’t want someone feeling slighted if I don’t get around to inviting everyone. Love all your videos. Take care and God bless y’all. 😀❤️
I also was a pastor's wife. We picked Thursday nights as our "company dinner" night. We had a list of all the church families and we worked our way through the membership one week at a time. It was good for us, and hopefully a blessing to our guests, as well.
@@vickismith2469 Sounds great. I’m sure they enjoyed it. Take care and God bless. 😀
Dear Megan, since you are such a great coffee lover as I am, here a proposal for great coffee, that is affordable but also a great sensory experience every morning: 1. Buy yourself a middle priced coffee grinder (about 25$), 2. get a Bialetti espresso maker Moka express (about 45$/6 cups), 3. if possible freshly roasted coffee beans from a local roaster but if not you can order some online and get them way more cheaper and tastier than premade, processed and very much overpriced coffee from any kind of pods. And if you want to take it to an other level: 4. buy some paper filters for the aeropress which fit the 6 cup standard Bialetti (600 filter papers around 10$). It is a small investment in the beginning and I admit in the beginning it might take some experimenting on which sort of coffee, which roast etc. suits one taste more and how much coffee powder for which cup/glas, but after figuring that out, every cup is going to be a blessing and this even on a manageable budget. No fancy coffee machine needed or super expensive cups. I have found my favorite coffee beans which I drink for years, but when traveling and passing a local coffee roaster from a different city I‘ll buy some new beans to keep it excited. I‘ve learned a lot about coffee and about brewing it by following a fellow RUclipsr James Hoffman which I can recommend to anyone who wants to learn more about coffee making. Cheers! ☕️
Love love love this video
We are having a holiday open house. I’ll serve cookies and cocoa. Our goal is to meet our neighbors
I absolutely love your videos. Thanks for giving me some inspiration all the time. But I have to admit I was laughing a bit... we host almost every weekend. Between 3 and 30 people as we have a big Catholic family... and you always need to have too much as our tradition is to prepare too much in case a poor man is walking in to eat. 21 days to prepare sound funny to me. I just prepare for 3 days before Christmas when our tradition is to serve 12 meals for one dinner ... times about 20 close family members 😂
Ahhh... and to answer your question... we have about 30 chairs in living room, kitchen and office room and about 20 more which we store in a gardenhouse
The video with you and Jayna I don't see linked or in the honey im homemaker playlist
So informative. It’s across up between goi gvto his sisters down the street or cater or cook at home. Bought pumpkin beautiful dollar store plates and bowls so beautiful. ❤😊