The Ultimate Dinner Party Guest Checklist: 15 Habits of the Most Gracious Guests
Release Date: 06/27/2025
The SavvyCast
In this episode, I sit down with my husband, Zane, for a candid conversation about what employers are truly looking for and what separates good employees from excellent ones. As an experienced investment banker and entrepreneur, Zane brings years of hands-on experience hiring and evaluating talent, and he’s passionate about passing these insights on to the next generation. While this career advice is especially valuable for young adults, it’s also incredibly relevant for anyone in midlife who’s guiding kids/grandkids or reflecting on their own career path. Whether you’re...
info_outlineThe SavvyCast
My daughter Ellie Hiller joins me to share the story behind her new book, , and the faith journey that inspired it. Once convinced she needed to convert Catholics, Ellie never imagined she would become a Catholic convert herself. In this candid conversation, she talks about how her husband’s conversion impacted their marriage, the doubts and questions that shaped her path, and why she intentionally wrote this book for those who aren’t Catholic. QUESTIONS ANSWERED ABOUT ELLIE'S FAITH JOURNEY: What ultimately led Ellie to convert to Catholicism? Does Ellie believe...
info_outlineThe SavvyCast
As we step into the new year, I’m sharing the simple routines and rhythms my husband Zane and I are intentionally pursuing together. From morning habits that help us follow through on workouts to evening bedtime rhythms, we’re focusing on creating steady routines that support our health and home. We’re also being more intentional about family time with our kids and grandkids, and more thoughtful about what we say yes and no to in this season of life. I hope these rhythms and routines encourage you to find what works best for you, your spouse, and your family, helping you live with...
info_outlineThe SavvyCast
As we head into a new year, it’s so easy to keep moving without ever slowing down to reflect. In today’s episode, my husband Zane joins me to share a powerful reflection exercise his firm has practiced for years: a solo retreat. We talk about the intentionality behind stepping away, eliminating distractions, and creating space to thoughtfully evaluate your faith, marriage, family, finances, health, and work. Whether you’re craving clarity, peace, or direction for the year ahead, this conversation will give you practical tools and meaningful questions to help you move forward with...
info_outlineThe SavvyCast
In this episode of The SavvyCast, I’m sharing my complete Christmas Prep Checklist with everything you need to think through before the holiday rush hits. From easy-to-forget gifts to grooming appointments, guest room essentials, and even practical tasks that often slip our minds, this guide will help you feel calm, organized, and truly prepared. If you want a smoother, stress-free Christmas season, this episode breaks it all down in a simple, doable way! LINKS: SHOP: Shop everything mentioned in this video here: 100pcs Clear Plastic Cellophane Goodie...
info_outlineThe SavvyCast
In this episode of The SavvyCast, I’m joined by my dear friend and fellow midlife influencer for a candid, girl-talk Q&A. I asked my Instagram community to submit their burning questions, and today we’re diving into all of them—from marriage and midlife transitions to plastic surgery, hormones, adult children, and more. This is truly a fun, honest, and real-life conversation between two midlife women who have lived a lot, learned a lot, and love sharing what’s worked (and what hasn’t). EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: Deanna’s journey through two past marriages and how she...
info_outlineThe SavvyCast
In this episode, I’m sharing a behind-the-scenes look at my living room makeover—from designing custom sofas with Birmingham Wholesale Furniture to finding the perfect durable rug to complete the space. I walk through why I chose custom over ready-made, what details mattered most, and how I’m giving my old sofas new life through reupholstery. If you’re choosing new furniture or hoping to elevate what you already own, this episode is packed with practical, real-life design tips! LINKS & RESOURCES (Use code FAMILYSAVVY10 for 10% off!) My Designer at Birmingham Wholesale:...
info_outlineThe SavvyCast
When my goldendoodle Tucker threw up on my brand new living room rug within 24 hours of installing it, I learned firsthand what works and what doesn’t when it comes to removing pet stains. In this episode, I share the exact steps I took to clean it up quickly and effectively, plus a few common mistakes to avoid. You’ll hear my favorite products for stain removal—like , , , and —and how each one performs on different messes. Whether you’re dealing with pet puke, coffee spills, or muddy footprints, this episode will help you rescue your rug and keep it looking (and smelling)...
info_outlineThe SavvyCast
If you love hosting but don’t want the stress of complicated appetizers, this episode is for you! I’m sharing my go-to easy party dips–from savory favorites (like Taziki’s Whipped Feta Dip, Chuy’s Jalapeño Dip, and Houston’s Spinach Artichoke Dip) to cozy baked dips (like Buffalo Hot Wing Dip and Blackberry Baked Brie). And for something sweet, you’ll love my quick dessert dips like 2-Ingredient Caramel Sauce and Caramel Apple Dip. These party dips are simple, delicious, and perfect for your next gathering, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or holiday get-together....
info_outlineThe SavvyCast
The key to stress-free holiday hosting is preparing ahead of time! In this episode, I’m walking you through a simple checklist of things you can do right now to get your home looking (and feeling) fresh, clean, and guest-ready. From cleaning your washer and dryer to freshening up your front door and polishing the holiday china, these easy steps will help you enjoy the season without the last-minute scramble. A little prep now means a lot more peace (and a lot less stress) later! HOLIDAY HOSTING CHECKLIST: Laundry Area Drain and clean your washer filter Run a cleaning cycle on your...
info_outlineNo one wants to be that guest that overstays, oversteps, or isn’t mindful. That’s why knowing how to be a thoughtful, gracious dinner party guest is more than just good manners. It’s a timeless social skill that sets you apart and sets a strong example for your kids and grandkids.
Whether you’re headed to a casual get-together or a formal supper club, these simple but powerful dinner party guest tips will make a lasting impression and leave your host feeling appreciated!
TIPS TO BEING THE BEST DINNER PARTY GUEST EVERY HOST WILL LOVE:
-
RSVP promptly. Don’t leave your host guessing!
-
Always ask what you can bring (and actually bring it!)
-
Choose a hostess gift everyone will love. Skip the wine, and gift something everyone will use and enjoy.
-
Bring your dish ready to serve.
-
Steer clear of ingredients like pork or seafood. Bring something that is universally loved by everyone!
-
Make enough food for every guest (and think about dietary preferences).
-
Arrive on time (not early!)
-
Be mindful of your shoes.
-
Know where to sit and when to offer help—with clean hands!
-
Offer assistance, but don’t hover in the kitchen.
-
Don’t overload your plate. Be sure to leave plenty for others.
-
Give sincere compliments and include others in conversation
-
Don’t overstay your welcome.
-
Never assume children are invited unless it's clearly stated.
-
Follow up with a warm thank-you text the next day
RESOURCES & LINKS:
-
Use this link to get 15% off your first order from Kosterina!
ENJOYED THIS EPISODE? YOU MAY ALSO LIKE…
Marie Marino on Cooking Meal for Loved Ones in Need
How to Create a Practical + Beautiful Party Setup with Lucy Grymes
RATE & REVIEW:
If you enjoyed this episode, would you take a moment to leave a 5-star rating and a short review on your favorite podcast platform? Your feedback helps The SavvyCast grow and continue serving women with content that empowers us all to be our savviest selves!
WHERE TO LISTEN:
The SavvyCast is available on all podcasting platforms and YouTube. Find all listening options here.