Last year many of you were brave and invited friends new and old into your homes for our very first (in)RL. {Have you registered yet? It’s free, you know.}
Today we’ve asked a few ladies to share some of their favorite things about hosting (in)RL gatherings in their homes and tips for you as you plan for another day of (in) real life meetups on April 27th.
At first I was really uncomfortable thinking that strangers would come to my house. I also wasn’t quite sure how many would show up, so planning stressed me out a bit. I needn’t have worried. I asked each girl to bring something to share (food), and we ate like queens! The mix of people was really cohesive, and I so appreciated everyone dropping their masks at the door and being deep and real. We had an amazing share and prayer time during our gathering. I’m excited about this year!
~ Mary DeMuth
Hosting an (in)RL party in my home last year was a total step of faith. I’d just recently moved to NC and was pretty sure no one would show up! Slowly, I saw one person, then two, then three, and a few more sign up. And then I started comparing … the other groups had way more sign-ups than I had. And then the negative self-talk ensued. Anyone feel me?
But you know what? It turns out, I had a beautiful group of ladies – small and intimate – perfect for being able to open up and form a community. Those two hours we spent together were sacred. No walls or boundaries. Thinking of it brings a smile to my face all over again. If you are even toying with the idea of hosting an event in your home, step out in faith and do it! God will honor you and put just the right group – and amount – of ladies in your chairs … and in your heart!
~ Tracie Stier-Johnson
My favorite part was connecting with others online, and for those friends who came along that afternoon, even though they didn’t really know what they were coming along, too! I enjoyed using Pinterest for some simple decor ideas, and although that part was fun, the most important thing is to meet with other women IN REAL LIFE. So if you’re hesitant about hosting an event because you aren’t crafty, or don’t have a pretty enough home, please don’t let this put you off.
It was also fun after our event was over, to continue to connect online with others around the world, as the (in)RL community gathered momentum.
~ JanMary
Ask someone to co-host! Co-hosting with my friend Megan made a meaningful event that much better. Planning together minimized my stress, and made the gathering a lot more fun! Also, invite your attendees to help. I knew I needed help to pull off this event. Rather than feel like I had to bear the expense of providing all the food – let alone preparing it all AND cleaning my house! – I asked everyone to bring their favorite savory appetizer or dessert.
Last but not least, go with the flow. The amazing minds at (in)courage will bring together amazing content for the (in)RL event, full of inspiration and encouragement. But guess what – last year Megan and I never got to the taped segments! We spent so much time getting to know one another, our party went two hours PAST THE TIME IT WAS SUPPOSED TO END and we were still just talking! On one hand I felt like a failure, but on the other? I realized THAT was our version of (in)RL, and it’s what our group needed.
~ Robin Dance
Don’t fret about making the house perfectly clean. No one’s going to do a white glove test, *and* it’s hard to relax in a home that’s museum clean. If people feel genuinely welcomed in my home, they are more inclined to relax, to drop their shoulders and their guard. I love the real conversations that are birthed from this atmosphere because beyond-the-weather conversations are the first baby steps towards real friendship.
Also, something that worked great was having my daughter and her friend help by serving, passing out gifts, etc. At 9 and 10, they were old enough to be really helpful but still young enough to believe helping is FUN.
~ Kristen Strong
For more tips for hosting an (in)RL gathering, check out these amazing ideas last year’s hosts used. And have you seen the fun, free downloadable checklists and printables for hosts over on our host page here?
Also, stay tuned for the Host Special Kits, which will be available for purchase Monday, March 25 through Friday, April 5. Details about what’s included in the kits will be coming soon, but I can tell you today that they’ll include this gorgeous Redeemed scarf.
GIVEAWAY: We’re giving away 5 Redeemed scarves this week. To enter, simply leave a comment with a tip for hosting an event at home.
BONUS ENTRY: If you’re hosting an (in)RL meetup this year, just tell us in the comments what state (or country) you’ll be hosting in and you’ll get a second entry. {Yup, even if you’re only signing up to host after reading this.} Fun, yes?
Want to see all the (in)courage (in)RL Meetups happening worldwide on Saturday April 27th. Click Here »
Want to know more about how the (in)RL Meetups work? Click Here »
Not registered yet for (in)RL? Click Here »
Photo credits: Tracie Stier-Johnson, JanMary, Kristen Strong
Leave a Comment
Kristin Smith says
My tip is to not stress having the perfect home etc., no one will be paying to whether or not your shelves are dusted or not! Just remember this is about spending time in fellowship together!
Kristin Smith says
I am hosting in Marshall MN!!
Amanda says
That’s awesome, Kristin!! I’m a MN girl too, and hosting in the twin cities. 🙂 My brother went to college in Marshall!
Stephanie says
Relax! The stress of getting everything ready for things months,weeks, days or even hours can really stick around if you let it. Yes, as a host you want everything to be ‘perfect’ and for everyone to have a good time but what about you? you’re a guest too! Are you making sure it’s still fun for you?
melissa says
plan ahead; make a to-do list; but also know that your plans may not always go as you expect them to…go with the flow at the party/event and just enjoy!
Jessica says
Purpose to make each guest feel special and wanted. A clean house and yummy food will leave a guest unimpressed and empty if you don’t let them know how happy you are to have them in your home.
Dee says
We usually ask a question or two to everyone to go around and answer. The first one is about themselves and the second one is often silly or from an time period where everyone ends up talking to each other in order to fiqure out the answer. it can be such a warm ice breaker to find out someone else who might know commercial trivia or even a sports question! (even when there are no husbands around!)
Dee says
Co hosting in Sarasota FL. Can’t wait!
Wendy says
This is my first year to sign up. Not sure if I’ll host – but might look into getting some friends together and doing it somewhere – we’ll see!!
~W~
Anna Radchenko @ Here Am I says
Although this tip was already mentioned, it was one that helped me greatly once I started listening to it! Don’t worry about your house being “clean enough” – clean your house as you normally would, but don’t worry about it being “perfect” — truth is, people who are visiting are there to spend time with YOU, and they rarely notice how clean a house is (when you’re visiting someone else and they say something about the cleanliness of their house, don’t you always think and say “oh, no worries” — that’s also how people feel when they’re visiting you!) 🙂
Anna Radchenko @ Here Am I says
I’m hosting for those in the Providence, Rhode Island area!!! 🙂 click on my name “Anna Radchenko @ Here Am I” to be brought to our Providence page!!
shepard says
I’m hosting the Greenville, NC meet up this year again…super excited!
Julie says
My tip (and advice to myself) will be to not worry about how many people sign up to come. I know God is in control of that! He knows who needs to be here that day!! I was so blessed by last years content that I want to share it with all of my girlfriends but I know that isn’t possible in a 2 hour setting on a April day! Letting go of the hostess perfection mindset also will be key to success!
I’m hosting in Arkansas!
Julie says
My tip will be to not worry about how many people sign up to come. I know God is in control of that! He knows who needs to be here that day!!
I’m hosting in Arkansas!
Beth Werner Lee says
Hosting tip: gather things ahead, leave the cabinet doors open to where the glasses are, let people help themselves to drinks, silverware. Put out all the essentials and then focus on people once they arrive,
We just hosted a chocolate fondue party (borrowed our neighbors’ fountain too) and it was delicious! Strawberries were on sale so I bought 8 pounds! It turned out to be such fun because when people came I wasn’t in charge of everything but dipped and talked and enjoyed.
Beth Werner Lee says
I’m hosting this year because I missed it last year.
shepard says
My advice would just be to make it comfortable, not perfect! And that includes the hostess too. Last year I had a really tough time because only my mom, MIL, and SIL showed up, and I had really worked to have the house clean, and enough food for like 25 people. But it was fine! The videos were great and we ended up having a good time. This year I’ll have a one month old in tow as well, so I know things won’t be pristine or “perfect” – but I am so excited to try again and already have a few women who have agreed to come! 🙂 You’re a much better hostess when you’re relaxed and enjoying yourself – so relax and enjoy yourself!
debbie pete says
Know that no one is coming just to checkout your house and how clean it is. It doesn’t have to be perfect just welcoming
Holly says
I am learning that it is okay to ask others to bring some of the goodies…that allows them to feel a part of the gathering from the beginning, and helps the host feel like they don’t have to do everything on their own!
Anita says
My tips for being a hostess is to just be yourself and make your guests feel comforable – they didn’;t come to inspect the house – so don’t stress over cleaning it.
Katy says
My tip is to keep it simple. Its okay to not have sooo much food or decoration 🙂
Lisa says
Chocolate, a successful even ALWAYS has chocolate. 🙂
Rebecca says
Keep it simple- simple is best!
Jessica says
Agree with all posts suggesting not to fret! My “practical” advice is to sweep the front porch, make sure the bathroom is clean (boys anyone?) & has fresh hand towels available. Most importantly, be yourself. It’s so much easier for us to relate to a “real” person vs. one who supposedly has it all together.
Michelle Murphy says
Simplicity is the key – the main point is that there are people who are coming that have real needs and are looking for real relationships – an imperfect house or limited food choice is not what they are looking at. If they are offered genuine fellowship and can really connect to others – the night has been successful!
Dori Cook says
My tip is to relax and make everyone feel comfortable. Let them know that your house is their house. Don’t start cleaning up dishes as soon as the meal is over. Enjoy time with your friends. You can clean that kitchen after everyone is gone!
Laura P says
I am hosting an event in GA.
Laura P says
We are actually turning the event I am hosting into our annual Ladies Retreat and having a sleepover at my house. So supper and breakfast both have sign up lists for people to bring food. If you are hosting an event where you know everyone then as them to bring their favorite dish. That will help you with the food expense. And a bonus is that their dishes will go home with them and you won’t spend hours washing dishes afterwards.
wonder says
Have a warm heart and open your home.
Gretta says
Keep it simple, relaxed and create an inviting atmosphere by making your house look “lived in”…not perfect!
bamagv at aol dot com
Teresa D. says
Prayer, pray for those you have not met that will be entering your home, pray for those that enter that you already know, pray for the beautiful fellowship. Invite God in first!
Heather Hetchler says
Pray for the event before time. Have coffee and chocolate on hand. Relax and enjoy. God will take care of it!
Looking forward to it.
Heather
Jennifer G says
My tip is to have lots of little places to sit with things that are easy to look at and talk about, coffee table books, pictures, bowls of candy…little “nooks” everywhere. That way people can tuck into a spot and get comfy for a few minutes here and there…and chat up someone they don’t know.
Missy says
This is a fantastic idea. I hadn’t even considered setting up little areas for ladies to have side conversations. Thank you!
Jennifer G says
I’m hosting in Henderson, KY 🙂
Mindy @ New Equus - A New Creation says
Make sure to leave enough time to allow for fellowship and discussions after the videos! 🙂
Elizabeth @ DogFurandDandelions says
Focus on the people, more than the food or furniture. That’s why you’re hosting anyway, right? And be yourself. Don’t try to be perfect or channel someone else’s style.
Libby says
Be yourself (telling myself this one!) and have fun getting to know each other. It’s what we’ve been waiting for!
Libby says
I am hosting in Lincoln, Nebraska!
Del Marie Riley says
I’m not stressing about it. Im letting God handle who is coming or not coming. I bought DaySpring memo pads to give out to my guests. I’m going to include a nice pen and a few other goodies in homemade little welcome bags. I don’t even have a dining room table at the current time but I’m not going to let that keep me from having a good time. We will make due. I’ll serve simple finger food, bake some yummy sweets, and do my best not to go overboard with it all. I’m going to make some big floor pillows just in case we run out of seating. My prayer, is that I will. I just want it to be a comfortable, put your feet on the couch, curl up in a cozy blanket, kind of day. If they want to wear sweats or pjs all the better. Our focus is on The Lord and each other from the inside out. Not on what we are wearing or how much bling we have on. I’m so excited. Can’t wait.
Del Marie Riley says
I am hosting in Parachute/Battlement Mesa, Colorado.
Sheeba m says
I am hosting in nj…I just pick up a park or a popular coffee place so I donot bother with perfection in the day….lots hope this year is more cues full than the last
LaDonna says
I am hosting in Steelville, MO.
Val says
A fun activity to do is to in a small group like these is to make a PRAYER TREE together. Just cut a small branch off a tree from your yard or a park and put it in a vase filled with pebbles. Have each lady write a prayer that she will be committing to Jesus over the course of the group time (from the first day to the last) on a hang tag with her name on it. The ladies can go around and share what their prayer is and then hang it on the tree. The tree will be on display at each meeting as a reminder to each member of what to pray for each other about over the coming weeks. At the last meeting, each gal can share how the Lord has answered her prayer and what she has learned about it.
Hannah says
My hosting tip would be to just relax and make your guests feel welcome. I never remember what their house looked like after getting together with friends, just how they made me feel.
Hannah says
I’m hosting in Brownsburg, IN 🙂
Lori says
YAY!! That’s where I grew up and my parents still live there! 🙂
Lori says
That’s where I grew up and my parents still live there!! Go dogs! 🙂
Lori says
That’s where I grew up and my parents still live there!! Go dogs!
Lori says
That’s where I grew up and my parents still live there!
Tessa Smith says
I love candles, and making the house smell good, seems to make me feel a little more relaxed too. 🙂
Leah A. says
Try not to stress! No one is perfect, and no one has a perfect house!
Cathy B*****y says
Love that so many of the ladies suggest, “just relax!”.. think we all need to hear that. I know I do. It is amazing the spiritual warfare that comes against something so glorious and uplifting! I do not know what will happen, as I am not well, fighting life threatening disease, along with a myriad of the financial problems a self-supporting person encounters with such details, but I KNOW our God is faithful… if He has called us to do this, whether 1 person comes or 20 or more, He will meet us there! I am so excited to watch and wait and pray for the Lord to put this Beach House gathering together, and still waiting on Him to choose the place as my apt is too small. IN the meantime, I signed up early to Host, totally by faith, and have created a pinterest board , which I hope blesses some of you. Thanks for an amazing giveaway today. This scarf has been on my wishlist for some time! my pinterest link is : http://pinterest.com/palmbreezelife/in-rl-host-meetup-ideas/
if anyone wants to check it out!
Cathy B pbprojecthope at yahoo dotcom
and if you live in the Palm Beach County, FL area or just want to travel to an awesome part of the country, please sign up soon for my meetup!
Tiya says
Have as much done the night before as possible including setting the table.
danielle m. says
Pray over the food, seriously 🙂
KHohns says
My tip is to “ask for help”! Never be too shame to ask for others to chip in or help out with the decorations and/or spread. Most times, they are glad to. Not only will it make hosting a lot less stressful, but it will also give you (the host) the opportunity to actually enjoy the event.
KHohns says
I’m hosting in Round Rock, Texas!!! Woot-woot!
Cathy B*****y says
I am hosting in the Palm Beach, FL area ~ & praying for many to come! Anyone in Palm Beach County or beyond is welcome! If you know someone needing encouragement in those areas, please let them know!
http://www.meetup.com/incouragemeetups/PALM-BEACH-FL/
Cathy B pbprojecthope at yahoo dotcom
Olivia says
My tip is that simple and comfortable goes a long way. Simple can still be beautiful!
Julie Sunne says
My tip is to relax and be yourself. Don’t pretend you are someone your not. If you aren’t a decorator, don’t sweat it–simple is awesome. If you don’t fix gourmet food (or food of any sort), stop at the nearest grocery and grab a few prepackaged treats. The point is to connect–laughing and praying together–not to impress anyone.
Julie Sunne says
Hosting near Dundee, Iowa.
Olivia says
I’m hosting in Southern AZ!
Missy says
I’m hosting in Bedford, NH (although, as of now, it’s listed in Manchester, NH). And, I can. not. wait!
Bree says
Simplicity is best!
Courtney L. says
My tip for hosting is simple: Keep it SIMPLE. A few pretty decorations, easy finger foods, and a big smile are all you need for a fun, relaxed event.
Dana Sparrow says
My tip is to create a relaxing, calming environment as many are looking for not only a get-together, but a get away! Serenity in the home setting can form an unforgettable impact!
Amanda says
My best tip is to focus on your guests, rather than worrying about their impression of you. Think about what will make them comfortable and welcomed, not about what will make you look good. 🙂 I’ve struggled with hosting-anxiety for years, and this mindset switch has helped me so much!
Courtney L. says
Also-I’m hosting in Converse, La!
Lisa says
To ensure the success of this event (my first time hosting!), I’m going to encourage a few ladies I already know to sign up to come to the gathering at my house, and will encourage them to invite one of their friends or acquaintances to come with them as well. I hope this will make for a good mix of new friends and old, and provide a great base of connection for anyone completely new wanting to participate just by signing up through the Meet Up site.
Amanda says
Also, I’m thrilled to be hosting in the Twin Cities, MN this year with my friend Anna! We have a big group, but we’re planning to break into small table-groups for discussion in between videos. 🙂
Lisa says
I am hosting a gathering in Richmond, Maine!
Kerry@plentyplace says
(in)RL is coming to my house in Virginia! 😉
I try to make seating as comfortable & conducive to conversation as possible. Extra cushions & a big circle enhance the gift of gab.
Christy Willard says
I’m hosting in Plymouth Meeting, PA!
My hosting tip is too not over think it. The things you worry over, the details you may have overlooked, will not be the thing your guests remember.
Tonya says
The best suggestion that I have for hosting is to keep it simple, especially the food. The times that I have made some elaborate recipe only brought more stress because of timing the food with the start of the event. When I’ve provided food that I could make ahead of time or have in the crockpot, I have had much less to worry about and enjoyed myself more.
Brittnie (A Joy Renewed) says
My first year to sign up! I am excited about this opportunity. It’s about the real life fellowship, not about how clean your home is or all the what if’s that might stress a host out.
Tonya says
I’m hosting this year in Tennessee!
Anna D. says
I do, not have the gift of hospitality but i’m going to say…ask for help, don’t be afraid. Looooooove the scarf!
Stevie says
I’m hosting in Pennsylvania! <3
Lesley says
Let people help. When they offer to bring drinks, ice, a side dish. Say that would be great! Don’t try to do it all. You’ll be less stressed and enjoy the event much more when your not having to do it all.
DianeN says
Don’t do it all yourself. As women, we don’t like showing up empty-handed, so share the load. Ask everyone to bring something (name tags, a game idea, snacks, drinks, etc). It’s a win-win. You’re not feeling the pressure of having to do everything and the attendee’s feel like they’ve contributed.
DianeN says
My best friend, a cousin and I are co-hosting in Cedar Rapids, IOWA
Crystal says
I love to have tea parties in my home. It is just such a special time. I make my own scones and Devonshire cream. I have a large selection of teas and I bring out all the teapots and cups and saucers and special plates. Everyone else brings a treat to share, mini sandwiches, soup, etc. It is a relaxed time that is missing for so many of us. I used to worry about my house being perfect and “what would people think” since my furniture is getting pretty ratty from twin boys’ and just living life. I decided that if that was all that the women saw then they were missing the best part: friendship and freedom to be real. So far they keep coming back!
Jenni Saake "InfertilityMom" says
Fun! So excited a hostess signed up for us here in Reno, NV! I’m beyond excited!!! I can’t host this year, but God has provided. 🙂
Danielle says
I’m hosting this year in South Carolina, and am really looking forward to it! One tip I have for hosting is don’t make the prep and environment (or lack thereof) more important than the relationships and connections.
Kristen says
I am hosting in Pittsfield,MA and looking forward to it!! Loved this last year and the Beach house gifts were great! Hope to see some new faces this year! Keep it simple and relaxed. Most important is to enoy the company!!
Joy says
Great coffee and authentic conversations make any real life gathering just perfect.
Joy says
I’m hosting an in(RL) meetup in Florida 🙂
~Karrilee~ says
I love hosting… yet there are many ‘reasons’ or ‘excuses’ that can get in my way. (I rent, there is not much parking, my house is not perfect, I don’t have a ton of seating…) but I have purposed this year to not let any of those things get in my way for creating atmosphere that breeds community!
So – clean up a bit… sure! Maybe tell the neighbors you are hosting a gathering for a few hours so they are aware ahead of time. Gather some extra chairs, and be the first to grab a seat on the floor. Light some candles or a scentsy burner to fill the house with warmth… have some beverage options to offer and ask for help in providing treats if you are wanting to serve something to snack on.
Remember – you are inviting women in to your home – but it is your heart that they are coming to see. So spend some time preparing your heart… and relax… the more we meet up – the more we realize, we are not alone!
~Karrilee~ says
{I am hosting in Yakima, Washington}
Anita Gambrell says
The best get togethers always works well if everyone brings a finger food! I am a first time host of this(in) RL. I am excited & a little nervous.
Anita Gambrell says
And I am hosting from Georgia in the good ole USA
Lacey says
I would give the advice of don’t get too stressed about your dirt and clutter. We all have it, people understand. Just do the best you can and enjoy the fellowship.
Melissa says
This is my first year and I am hosting in Winder, GA! So excited!!
Liisa R says
kiss… keep it simple, silly! i’m hosting for the first time and i don’t think this needs to be a huge deal, as it is mostly about connecting. 🙂 looking forward to it!
Lisa White says
I need to stop negatively comparing my home to others, see the character it has and play that up. I’m hosting first-time from an ancient farm house in central Illinois.
Jennifer says
Don’t stress about spotlessness. Especially if you have kids. Do diligence to clean but don’t stress if it is not spotless.
Amanda says
Candles and music add instant atmosphere and are a fun way to (in)courage the party mood!:)
I will be hosting the Petaluma, CA group for my first time and I look forward to this wonderful experience… thank you ladies!
Cindy B. says
Warm heart and warm home and yes hosting in Henderson, Nevada!!!
Karen says
My tip is to just be yourself and don’t stress out about trying to be something you are not in front of women in real life. Everyone has their own issues. Just hug on everyone and smile!!
Karen says
I am hosting in Iowa!
Tara says
Focus on community, not perfection. Be Mary not Martha!
Alexis says
My tip to hosting is to plan ahead of time but not to stress if my total mental picture isn’t exact and to remember it’s about the relationships being built.
I will be hosting in Ohio, first time and looking forward to seeing what God is doing!
Anna says
My husband is great at reminding me that a relaxed host makes for an easygoing time for everybody! This is a great way to remember that hospitality isn’t about perfection, but about relationships!
Becky says
This will be my first time to attend. Considering hosting. Balancing the Mary or Martha tendencies would keep it in perspective. Simplicity would allow for enjoyment. Saying that prior is easy. Once it starts to get closer, I tend to fret. My husband & I work well together. Due to health limits, he is truly my help mate. If it’s possible to communicate with others prior, I will ask for help. Learning a new craft or skill would be fun.
Stephanie Hanes says
When I plan parties or get togethers at our home I always try to plan ahead and keep it simply, not leaving it all to the last minute.
Becky Daye says
I am excited to host for the second year in a row- but this year, we will be at our church instead of in my home, because it is possible that my baby girl will be joining the world around that time!!! But that would be one of my tips for hosting- be flexible! This year I will be working with friends, so if I can’t be there it will still happen and I know that God will get the glory! He always does when His girls come together!
Sonya B says
I would say to invite a mix of people you know and people you dont know. Step out of your comfort zone, trust me it will be a blessing to you as well as your new friends.
Sonya B says
This is the second time I am hosting in North Carolina.
Amy @ Coffee With the Mrs. says
My tip is to Relax and Enjoy! I stressed too much about what my home looked like and what I personally had to offer these women who would come into my home for the first time last year. That is, I stressed until my God reminded me that I’m doing all of this for HIM and He’s pretty pleased with me…and the home he gave me to host in.
So…Prepare, yes but don’t stress. Make yourself available for God’s work.
Amy @ Coffee With the Mrs. says
I’m hosting this year in Mount Clemens, MI
Meghan says
My tip is sharing a couple of our favorite refreshments to serve for small parties:
1. Apple and pear slices with yogurt dip; mix one cup of plain yogurt with 2 tbsp. of maple syrup and serve it with apple and pear slices.
2. You can float nearly any sliced/washed fruit in a pitcher of ice water, it gives it a bit of flavor and looks fancy!
Jessica Mumford says
I would love this adorable scarf!
My tip for hosting is to prepare snacks/drinks ahead of time so you can relax before the crew arrives. Light a candle and pray!
Beth R. says
My tip is to stay away from strong scents. Use unscented candles if you must, as some of your guests might have allergies or suffer from migraines that get triggered from strong smells. On the same note, if you are attending, leave your perfumes at home. Your fellow attendees will thank you. 🙂
Jeanine says
My tip is to keep things simple-be organized and have your menu planned ahead of time. Most of all-keep in mind it isn’t a contest to outdo anyone. You’re doing this for the Lord!
Jeanine says
I’m hosting in my home in Ladysmith, Wisconsin!!
Karen Looby says
I’m taking the leap to host this year, in Cambridge, Ontario. This is also my first time participating. My tip is what my mother always says: just make sure your washroom is clean! 🙂
After that, just do your best and don’t apologize for not being perfect- it’s a relief for others to be with real people. After all, this is (in)RL!
Tammie says
i’m hosting in montana.
my hint: just do it. 🙂
Tammie says
I’ll also confess that I’m so scared that I’m trying not to think about it too much.
nicole says
cook items ahead and just reheat- give yourself less stress- think finger food that is easy to get ready at the last minute and more importantly, easy to clean up!
Frances says
My tip would be to browse the Nester’s blog because her party decoration ideas are mostly simple, realistic & affordable!
Frances says
and I’m hosting in Omaha, NE!!
Jessica N says
I’d say co-hosting w/a good friend. Divides up the prep work & I’d be more comfortable that way.
julie+ says
I am hosting for the first time! Plan just being available and sharing the incredible connections!
Rhonda says
I’m excited to lead a group for the first time in N-E-B-R-A-S-K-A! =]
Cindy in PA says
My tip? To let everyone bring some food to share. Don’t try and do everything yourself.
Cindy in PA says
I’m hosting in Doylestown, PA! Hooray!
Rhonda says
I’m excited to lead a group for the first time!
Deb Stevens says
Oh my, I don’t know how many times I wish that I has just PRAYED before anything I started!! Big or small, trivial or urgent, beautiful or boring, confusing or clear; I am learning that whatever end of the spectrum our life seems to gravitate towards every minute of the day (it seems), talking with God about it ALWAYS seems to make everything okay. Not perfect, but just enough to handle with peace and contentment.
Deb Stevens says
OH AND I’M HOSTING IN GLENDALE, AZ!!! 😀
Shauna Congelliere says
Yeah Deb! I’m your Peoria neighbor!! 🙂
Deb Stevens says
Hi Shauna!! 😀 Pleasure to meet you! are you hosting this year???
Krista says
If you have to be worried, be worried about being friendly rather than the state of your house!
Kate C says
I was inspired with a host idea during the sermon at church last Sunday – the pastor talked about holy ground and how when we truly feel God’s presence we are standing on holy ground. He reminded us of the burning bush and how Moses was told to remove his shoes because he was standing on holy ground. My plan is to read some scripture passages about this and then have everyone remove their shoes (I’ll let them know in advance, I know going without shoes makes some people very uncomfortable so socks will be OK).
Kate C says
I am hosting in Port Angeles, WA.
Amanda says
I am hosting in Ringgold GA!
Adrienne says
This will be my first time, but I really want it to be relaxing for my friends and just be able to be themselves and feel at home. It’s all in Gods hands and of course pray over the gathering that all the ladies be blessed and are so (in)couraged.
Blessings,
Adrienne
Adrienne says
I will be hosting in Henderson, NV!!! Woohoo!!!
Blessings,
Adrienne
Laura Towle says
Co-host!
Stephanie says
I am hosting in Malakoff, Texas & inviting friends from nearby Athens. Stepping out in faith as our house is in process of updating and remodeling. Have to remind myself that it is about using the gift of hospitality that makes people feel at home. If I don’t open my home due to embarrassment or fear of judgement, who does that benefit? No one!
Carey Dunlop says
Tip for hosting… Relax. It all comes together. Also don’t be afraid to ask for help. You’ll enjoy your event so much more if you feel like you don’t have to be responsible for every last detail. 🙂
Carey Dunlop says
Hosting an in(RL) meetup in Bartlesville, OK! So far its just me but I’m excited to see God move and bring more!
Shauna Congelliere says
Everyone wears an invisible sign around their neck that reads “Make Me Feel Important”. Know in advance that some women have not felt important in a long time and it took big courage to ring your doorbell! Shower with grace, love freely, and give her Jesus!
Shauna Congelliere says
I’m hosting in{RL} in Peoria, AZ. 🙂
lyra says
Must haves: your peeps, an imperfect home filled with love, a rug to wipe our worries at the door, paper and pens to journal what captivates us, and of course, coffee!
What is already there: the Holy Spirit, the webcast, and God’s blessing! I can’t wait to have a group here in my little living room and mismatched furniture… nothing is perfect except Him who loves 🙂
Kelly Lake says
Just being real and comfortable and keeping things simple work the best!
Tiffany says
You can never go wrong with chocolate and God. I am looking forward to hosting and eating some chocolate =)
Melinda T says
One tip is to do what you can before the event, so you’re not running around doing things the minute before guests arrive. This works with food and for me, cleaning days before so I won’t be overwhelmed and I can just do touch-ups that day! This is my first year doing inrl, but I would recommend having paper and pens handy. Maybe even buy clipboards and give them out to those coming to the meetup!
Joyce M. says
We just had some workshops at MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) this morning and one of them was on hospitality. It was a great talk, but my 2 takeaways from that are: plan ahead which is basic but I always think I can do things last minute, and the practice tip was to put out the serving dishes where they will be placed after the food is all done and put sticky notes on them so you can see where they will fit on the table or countertop.
Joyce M. says
I’m signed up to host inRL in SF Bay Area, CA. 🙂
Amy says
Be sure to let people know where the bathroom is! 🙂
Donna Livingston says
Murfreesboro, TN
Donna Livingston says
We are going to have gift bags and a spa basket giveaway. An probably a crochet lesson!!! Lots of fun
Kristi Glass says
I’m hosting again in the Elko, NV, area. Last year’s event was very inspiring, so I’m looking forward to a great time again this year. My suggestion is to have name tags for everyone so those who don’t know each other can connect easier. Also, I’ll be asking last year’s attendees to wear their (in)RL tee shirts from that event, if they like.
Margaret Polino Nicholas says
I am hosting a meet up. I am scared , but I am going to do it. Our croup is in Gassaway ,West Virginia. It will focus on chronic illness along with fellowship. I love all the ideas you give us to work with. Please say a prayer that me and God pull this off!
Debra says
My tip is to create a comfortable, friendly meeting space. Be sure there is plenty of room for your guests to sit comfortably, yet cozy enough to interact.
I am hosting an (in)RL 2013 event in my home in Corsicana, TX.
Blessings~Debra
Jennifer Kindle says
My tip is to remember it’s about the people and the relationships….not the activities and other details!
Jennifer Kindle says
I’m hosting in Texas!
Elizabeth Anne May says
I’m hosting this year, for the first time, in Pittsburgh, PA. When I entertain, I try to do as much as possible ahead of time so I can relax when the guests arrive. I also am big on tidying up and hiding clutter, which makes my house seem clean, even if it couldn’t pass the white glove test!
maria says
One way to keep it simple and less stressful when you are hosting a little get together like this one is to ask each person coming if they are able to bring either a dessert, beverage, fruit, or any other small edibles that come to mind – like chocolate!! In any case, there is no pressure to bring anything but some will and there is much less stress on the hostess!
Daniella Peterka says
Hosting tip: candles and open windows to fresh air (if the weather is nice!) and a vase of flowers will make your home welcoming, no matter what the state of cleanliness everything else is in!
Daniella Peterka says
Bonus entry: I’m hosting this year, in Stone Mountain, GA!
Leyla says
Hosting tip: I guess that if I ever hosted I would always have extras just in case I run out of things (food, books, chairs, activities …)
Tereasa says
My tip: Leave a cobweb or two when you’re cleaning beforehand so no one feels like your house is so perfect they could never have you over to theirs! 😉
Tereasa says
I’m hosting in Indiana, PA!
Lindsey van Niekerk says
I find the more relaxed I am DURING the party, the better time people have because they pick up my cues to feel at home in my house!
Carmen says
I’m hosting this year but don’t have my guest list completely set yet. We’ll be in Wisconsin
Cathy B*****y says
I cannot find my second entry with the link to my meetup! So here it is! http://www.meetup.com/incouragemeetups/PALM-BEACH-FL/ Florida, USA
still working on location… but if you are in the area, or want to be in the area for a day ro two, please sign in! Would love to meet new sisters in the Lord.
Cathy B pbprojecthope atyahoodotcom
Shauna says
Thank you for blessing me with this beautiful scarf! It is spectacular! I’m excited to show my new {RL} friends when they visit me!!!
Shauna Congelliere says
Thank you for blessing me with this beautiful scarf! It is spectacular! I’m excited to show my new RL friends when they visit me!!!
Jennifer Lambert says
I’m hosting in Layton, UT.