What's In My Hosting Drawer (a.k.a. My Secret Sauce)
Everyone talks about their junk drawer, but let me introduce you to the hosting drawer—my secret little arsenal of last-minute magic. This unassuming drawer (or bin, or basket, or overflowing corner of a cabinet) is how I go from "I forgot they were coming over" to "Wow, did you plan this?" in five minutes flat.
My hosting drawer is sacred. It’s a mix of functional, festive, and "you really thought of everything" that makes a night feel special without making you sweat.
Whether you're hosting a spontaneous wine night or a full-blown dinner party, this drawer has saved me more times than I can count. And trust me—I take this very seriously.
So, what's in the drawer?
1. Candle stash (with a lighter that actually works)
You can never have too many candles. I keep:
A couple of unscented taper candles for the table
Scented votives for the bathroom and entryway
A tried-and-true lighter because let’s be honest, most of ours are dead
They instantly create a cozy vibe and hide a multitude of sins (like that pile of laundry you shoved in the other room).
2. Cloth napkins (in a neutral that looks fancy but hides stains)
They instantly dress up a table, even if you’re just serving pizza. Bonus: you look like you have your life together. I also like to throw one under a snack board or a wine bottle—adds instant charm.
3. Mini snack bowls and ramekins
Tiny bowls = big hosting energy. Popcorn? Marcona almonds? Fancy olives? These make it all look intentional and curated, not like you just dumped a bag into a bowl (even if you totally did). I always keep an eye out for unique, adorable ones — the kind you just have to bring home. Over time, they add a little eclectic charm to the table that feels warm, personal, and totally modern martha.
4. Conversation cards (or a deck of cards if we’re being real)
I keep a cheeky set of conversation starters or table games handy in case the vibe needs a little nudge. They're perfect for loosening up a group or giving that one awkward guest something to latch onto.
→ How to Play Mafia – a low-effort, high-drama game that gets everyone invested.
→ The {THE AND} Card Games – thoughtful and juicy prompts without the cringe.
→ My Go-To List of Cozy & Fun Conversation Starters – bookmark this one, trust me.
5. Emergency chocolate (always)
Because someone will ask if you have something sweet—and I like to be the person who says, "Oh I have just the thing." A few dark chocolate squares or even a fancy chocolate bar? You're a hero.
6. Cute cocktail napkins
No, you don’t need them. But the ones that say something cheeky or seasonal? That’s the vibe. I grab them whenever I see a cute pack—Target, HomeGoods, even the grocery store.
7. A backup wine key and bottle opener
Because the one in your kitchen drawer is never there when you need it. Keep a backup stashed here and thank yourself later.
8. A small Bluetooth speaker
Music matters. Keep one charged and tucked away so you can set the vibe instantly. No one wants to sit in silence while you plate the cheese.
9. Guest wipes or a stain stick
For the red wine spill. Or the toddler. Or your friend who’s basically both. I also keep a mini lint roller in there—because cat hair.
10. A couple of blank cards
In case you want to send a thank-you, add a sweet note to a hostess gift, or turn your take-home treat into a little moment. Thoughtful = unforgettable.
Final Thoughts:
I like to restock it every few months and rotate in seasonal touches—hello, autumn-scented candles and tiny pumpkin toothpicks. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about being prepared—in a low-effort, high-reward kind of way.
Whether you’re hosting a full dinner party or just friends stopping by after work, having your hosting drawer ready to go means less stress and more yes, I totally have my life together. (Even if I’m still in sweatpants.)
So—what’s in your hosting drawer? 👀 Leave a comment or DM me your must-haves—I’m always looking for a new fave to stash! @hostmode.on