41 Comments
User's avatar
Vicki Long's avatar

Offer a hug and a beverage. Stay to chat since everything is low key and prepped.

Expand full comment
Jerilyn Whitsitt's avatar

A DIY element - all the stuff is out and ready for you to pour your drink, load the skewer with marshmallows, etc. You're here and I'm pumped, make yourself at home!

Expand full comment
Amanda Quain's avatar

Love this!! Big fan of making sure to introduce people right away when folks are gathering, and offering a quick shared interest between them - sometimes you have to get the new friendships started yourself!

Expand full comment
Karen Boone's avatar

Will miss these weekly posts, but wishing you all the best for the Texas Bakehouse!

Besides fresh flowers and a candle burning, an open bar cart with seasonal or favorite drink recipes that people can choose from to make on their own!

Expand full comment
Nikki Scalia's avatar

Sad to see the end of sunday posts but so excited to see what’s next!

I like to welcome people with literal open arms, a welcome drink, and always a snack or two as we gather in the kitchen- because that’s where we always end up!

Expand full comment
Lorrie's avatar

We live in a small cottage in the Sonoma Valley, and wine is a part of every gathering. At our house when you come in the door, my great grandmother's china cabinet is right there, filled with an assortment of vintage glassware. Friends know to grab a glass on their way in, and glasses are filled right away! (And farewell to LIBS; I've been reading the whole 10 years, but will look forward to your next creation!)

Expand full comment
Julie G's avatar

I will miss your Sunday letter! Thank you for years of lovely recommendations, inspiration and care

Expand full comment
Lindsay's avatar

Having games out to spontaneously play

Expand full comment
Kelly Radford's avatar

A smile, a hug and drink offer (special cocktail? Hot? Cold? Alcohol or no alcohol?

Expand full comment
Jo's avatar

Putting out snacks and desserts!

Expand full comment
Ceilie's avatar

I like to greet them with a warm hug and then stop whatever I am doing and chat for a bit. They came out of their way to be with our family for the night, so they need an immediate, "Thank you for coming and how are you?"

Expand full comment
Debra's avatar

It was one of my favorite Sunday morning moments to myself to open your email, and read what is happening with everyone, recipes were delicious and photos great, highlighted articles, fun and interesting. I noticed I have really been missing them, and I can’t wait to see Joy the Baker, Texas style, 2.0-you go girl. And thank you for bringing us along with you on all your happy trails.

Expand full comment
Kasey Johnson's avatar

I love giving them a big hug and making sure I say names throughout the night if it’s a group that may not know each other

Expand full comment
Courtney's avatar

I give them a job, just a little job, to do! And ask them if they want to take their shoes off or keep them on. To each their own 😄

Expand full comment
Kristin's avatar

I always like to offer a beverage first thing no matter the occasion -- I'm always ready to whip up a cocktail, or put on water for an assortment of teas.

Expand full comment
Cyndie's avatar

A warm hug as they enter the house, I want them to know how welcome they are in our home. Joy, I will miss you on Sundays.

Expand full comment