4 superhosts tell us how to be one

Hosting guests overnight in your home often stirs up two kinds of images: chaos and stress (think Meet The Parents), or having someone feel out of place and overwhelmed (Saltburn, perhaps?) But being a host doesn’t need to involve these extremes. As Indians, we have hospitality in our DNA. We are firm believers in the concept of atithi devo bhava after all, and our culture emphasises the importance of treating guests with kindness, graciousness, and respect.

But…we don’t need to prep bedside picnic hampers or make lavender bath salts like Meghan, Duchess of Sussex. Simple gestures that spark delight go a long way in ensuring guests feel welcome and comfortable, according to four tastemakers we spoke to: Rubeena Singh, Sarah Sham, Ranji Kelekar, and Eeshan Kashyap. Here are their tips on how to be a host with a flair.

1. RUBEENA SINGH, INTERIOR DECORATOR AND OWNER, VERVE ESTATE, GOA

Rubeena Singh is a home stylist, interior decorator and owner of the heritage luxury retreat The VeRVe Estate in Goa. As someone who has spent time restoring a heritage colonial villa to welcome guests year-round, Rubeena knows what goes into creating a warm and inviting space.

The Little Things Matter the Most

For Rubeena, hosting is about making her guests feel at home. “I focus on creating a welcoming and comfortable environment. This includes ensuring the house is tidy, that the room looks fresh and clean, and our guests have space in their rooms for their luggage and clothes. I also like to be thoughtful and have soft and firm pillows and light and heavier blankets in the guest room so they can choose what is most comfortable.” In addition to this, she also takes the time to stock up on extras: snacks in the fridge for late-night cravings, and a selection of toiletries. She also keeps fresh flowers around, since they add instant cheer to any room.

She says that little things matter. “If I know a guest prefers to sleep in, providing an eye mask can make their stay so much more comfortable. Similarly, using essential oils to create a pleasant ambience in their room can be a thoughtful touch. Placing some treats alongside water in a tray is a small touch that goes a long way for guests who like to sleep late.”

The Power of a Warm Greeting

Apart from the set-up, Rubeena says how you greet your guests is equally important. “A genuine smile can instantly help guests loosen up. I also enjoy engaging in conversation while being mindful of their need for privacy. Moreover, I try my best to adjust my schedule to accommodate their requests.” And when it’s time to say goodbye, Rubeena likes to pack a few treats and a handwritten note capturing a memory of their visit.

A Cheerful, Relaxed Host Makes Everyone Feel Welcome

“I’ve noticed that when I visit people and they appear relaxed, I’m also more at ease. Letting go of the need to control every detail can really enhance the experience and help everyone relax.” Rubeena saw her grandmother do the same. “I remember as a child, our whole family would sometimes arrive unannounced. Nothing seemed to bother her, and in no time, she would cheerfully bake a fresh cake for everyone.” 

2. EESHAAN KASHYAP, EXPERIENCE DESIGNER AND FOUNDER, TABLESCAPE BY EESHAAN

Eeshan Kashyap is multidisciplinary in every sense of the word: he’s a trained chef, a culinary artist, a designer, and founder of the tableware brand Tablescape. And one thing that’s common in much of what he does, is bringing people together and playing host. A few things that stand out for him are good food, attention to detail and giving guests time and space to get comfy.

Snack Baskets are a Must

Eeshaan is a big fan of snack baskets. It’s a fun element to add to the guest room, and also practical: your guests may be jet-lagged, or they may have skipped a meal or two during their journey. Having something to nibble on always helps, especially if they’re late to turn in for the night. “I keep a large snack basket of healthy things, some not-so-healthy things, stuff that’s sweet and salty… it’s fun to gather everything from chips to chocolates.”

Small Details Make the Best Memories

A relative or friend making his favourite food, or something placed on the bedside table (like a gift, note, or letter) that is personal and unique always makes things special. “I was recently visiting a friend who kept an old photo of us on the bedside table. It was such a nice memory postcard!”

Create and Enjoy a Sense of Ease

Giving guests a lot of space and privacy is important, according to Eeshaan we should not set up timelines or rules for guests. There’s a reason why staying with a friend or family member is different from checking into a hotel: it’s the freedom of time, the unhurried pace, and the fact that we are not bound by looming checkouts and buffet closures. “Just the idea of a houseguest coming in and staying on with that sense of ease is something that really makes a difference, whether I’m holidaying or hosting someone.”

4. RANJI KELEKAR, INTERIOR STYLIST

Designer and stylist Ranji Kelekar is a true aesthete: he is an avid collector with a great eye, and has a knack for mixing, matching and layering, creating magical tablescapes and interiors that marry vintage and modern pieces. Everything he puts together is elegant and inviting, and he takes a similar approach when hosting friends at his home.