Well Appointed Hosting: Before Guests Arrive

The hour before guests arrive sets the tone for a relaxed Labor Day gathering. With the table set and refreshments chilled ahead of time, you’ll be free to enjoy the Holiday alongside your guests.

Our editorial team’s favorite hosting tip is to prepare in stages. Set your outdoor table the night before, then chill beverages in the morning and arrange fresh hydrangeas a few hours before guests arrive. Save only the finishing touches—placing appetizers, turning on music, and lighting candles—for the last 20 minutes.

For an effortless Labor Day table, embrace the beauty of late summer. A classic blue-and-white palette feels fresh against a garden backdrop, while woven placemats, striped linens, and seasonal blooms add warmth and texture. The result is festive, polished, and perfectly suited to dining outdoors.

Keep your guests comfortable by offering a mix of sunny and shaded seating, along with plenty of cold drinks. If the gathering continues into the evening, add candles or lanterns around the table to create a soft, inviting glow as daylight fades.

Another tip we love: keep a serving tray or small clearing station nearby for empty glasses and plates. It makes outdoor entertaining easier and allows you to tidy as you go without stepping away from the gathering.

The best hosts aren’t the busiest people at the table—they’re the ones enjoying the conversation. A little thoughtful preparation makes all the difference.

Tip from Our Editorial Team ✨

Before guests arrive, do one final walk-through of your outdoor space. Wipe down the chairs, check that each place setting is complete, refresh the flowers, and fill the ice bucket last. Then pour something refreshing and enjoy a beautiful Labor Day.

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