Inside-Out Hospitality

This is a guest blog post by Audrey Sibenu. Enjoy!

In Part 1, we laid the foundation: thoughtful planning and calm preparation.
In Part 2, we explored the hidden touches—fragrance, order, and guest comfort.

Now, in Part 3, we delve a little deeper into practical and fun topics! Let’s talk about those first impressions: the tastes, sounds, and sights that quietly set the tone before the meal even begins.

Tip 4: Offer a Thoughtful and Timely Appetizer

Appetizers are lifesavers! Because let’s be honest—no one can focus on your warm welcome if their stomach is staging a protest. The French fancily call them amuse-bouche, and the Brits might say hors d’œuvres (if they’re feeling bougie). But around here, we just call them what they are: tiny bites that say, “Hey, relax—you’re in good hands.”

I always remember Esau, who gave away his entire birthright just because he was hungry (Genesis 25:29–34). And Jonathan? His eyes brightened after tasting just a bit of honey after battle (1 Samuel 14:27). Hunger has a way of clouding good judgment—and opening up the heart.

Your guests may be arriving after a long workday, school run, travel, or even a period of fasting. Don’t let them crash into a table full of conversation with an empty, growling stomach! Give them something light and welcoming. You do not want them making Esau-like decisions (especially in strategic meetings), so they can skip quickly to item 11. What they need is a brightening boost of energy!

Whether guests are waiting for the main meal or just need a conversation snack, appetizers add class—and calm.

Appetizer Ideas by Effort Level

🟠 Budget-Friendly & Easy:

• Puff-puff
• Popcorn
• Accra banana or koki
• Chips
• Chin-chin
• Mini doughnuts

🟡 Medium-Level Prep:

• Soya
• Meat or fish pies
• Samosas
• Fish rolls

🔴 Effort, but Worth It:

• Canapés
• Charcuterie boards
• Dips and chips

🟢 Healthy & Refreshing:

• Soups (like pepper soup)
• Simple salads

Here is an Easy Salad Recipe:

• Base: Lettuce (washed & dried)
• Toppings: Cucumber, avocado, carrot, tomatoes, onions
• Protein: Boiled eggs, grilled chicken, or cheese
• Dressing:
  3 tbsp mayo + 2 tbsp vinegar + 6 tbsp oil + pinch of salt + pinch of white pepper
  Blend. Adjust to taste.

Want to Wow Them? Serve Guacamole with Tortilla Chips

Take your guests on a little trip to Mexico 🇲🇽—visa-free!

• Chips: Store-bought tortilla chips work just fine
• Guacamole:
  • Mash ripe avocados
  • Mix in chopped tomato, onion, garlic
  • Add lime juice and salt to taste

Tip 5: Set the Mood with Music

Let soft, beautiful music fill the background. It eases tension, breaks awkward silence, and makes people feel emotionally safe. The sound should be subtle but powerful—just enough to warm the atmosphere without drowning conversation. More on the power of sound in hospitality here.

Tip 6: Look Good, Feel Free

The icing on the cake! You are part of the welcome. Your appearance communicates even before you speak. You don’t need a red carpet outfit, but you do need to be clean, confident, and comfortable. Your calm presence makes guests feel at ease.

✨ Pro Tip: Get yourself ready before the final cooking or set-up tasks, not after. Trust me—it’s hard to welcome warmly when you’re sweaty, stressed, and still hunting for earrings.

Choose something you can move in freely and smile in easily—without the constant need to adjust. This is why I said in Part 1 that managing your time is key. It’s not when the guests arrive that you should be struggling to shower.

Try This for the Next Visit

This week, pick one tip and do it intentionally:

• Serve an easy appetizer
• Turn on soft music during family dinner
• Choose your hosting outfit early

Which of these tips are you most excited to try? Let me know in the comments!

Did you like the post? Share it with a friend who’s learning to host from the inside out.

Conclusion: Hospitality Is Who We’re Becoming

You’ve now completed The Art of Prepared Hospitality—from the first thought to the final guest smile. Here’s a quick recap:

• Part 1: Plan ahead, simplify your menu, and use a planner
• Part 2: Clean and calm the space, use scent intentionally, prepare your heart
• Part 3: Serve a thoughtful appetizer, set the atmosphere with music, present yourself with care

Hospitality is not just what we do—it’s who we’re becoming: people who make others feel seen, safe, and spiritually refreshed.

Final Reflection

What was your biggest takeaway from this series?
I’d love to hear in the comments!