Unreasonable Hospitality: Going Above and Beyond for Your Guests Simply Because You're Glad They Came

In a world where hosting can sometimes feel like a chore, why not take your hospitality to a level that feels almost unreasonable? My husband recently read "Unreasonable Hospitality" (the book) by Will Guidara, and when talking about it together, I realized that the most memorable restaurants, places, and events I go back to and remember most often hold this idea to be true.

Offering your guests an experience that exceeds their wildest dreams will leave a lasting impression, but it's about more than that. It's about bringing heaven to earth, even if only for a moment, because it's what we are made for. To outdo one another in love, and in turn, the ordinary will become the extraordinary.

Below are a few practical tips that you can implement at your next gathering:

Before your guests arrive, do a little research—find out their favorite foods, drinks, and even music. Imagine your guest's delight when they walk in to find a playlist filled with their favorite songs or a signature cocktail waiting just for them. This level of personalization transforms your gathering from a generic event into a bespoke ~experience~.

Tip: Create a quick survey or casually ask in conversation what they love, then surprise them with these little details.

Ambiance is everything. Think about the atmosphere you want to create and let that guide your decor. For a dinner party, consider using thematic table settings, mood lighting, and even scent to create an immersive environment. For a weekend getaway, ensure every space feels like a luxurious retreat—plush linens, fresh flowers, and cozy nooks for relaxation.

Tip: Use layered lighting—candles, string lights, and dimmed overheads—to create a warm and inviting glow.

A well-thought-out menu can be the highlight of the event. Don’t just serve dinner—create a culinary experience. Offer a multi-course meal with small, exquisite dishes that play on flavors and presentation.

Tip: Include a mix of comfort food with a twist and adventurous dishes to keep your guests both satisfied and on their toes.

Surprises can make an event unforgettable. This could be anything from an unexpected dessert course to a personalized gift waiting in their room.

Tip: A small, personalized token of appreciation, like a handwritten note or a custom place-setting, can go a long way in making your guests feel special.

Anticipation is key to unreasonable hospitality. Think of what your guests might need before they even realize it. Have extra chargers, cozy blankets, and a selection of late-night snacks on hand. If wine is on the table, as soon as their glass is nearing empty, refill it.

Tip: Host with someone else to make sure that everyone's needs are accounted for. If you miss someone's refill, the other person's got them covered.

While the setting and food are important, true hospitality is about community. Facilitate meaningful interactions among your guests, whether it’s through a shared activity, a themed conversation starter, or simply offering them space to relax and bond.

Tip: Incorporate interactive elements, like a DIY cocktail station, group game, or conversation prompts to encourage connection.

The way you close out your event can leave a lasting impression. For a dinner party, consider a grand dessert finale or a farewell reading prompt, Bible verse, or sharing something each person is grateful for. For a weekend getaway, send your guests off with a beautifully packed breakfast for the road or a curated playlist to remember the experience.

Tip: A parting gesture like a handwritten note or a small gift bag can make guests feel appreciated long after they’ve left.

By embracing these elements of unreasonable hospitality, you’ll not only host an event but create a memory that your guests will talk about for years to come. Remember, the key to extraordinary hospitality is in the details—when you make each moment feel special, your guests will leave feeling truly cherished and loved.