By Marie Claire Maison Arabia | Photography by Sami Khatib Threedots Photography | Flower Arrangement by The Flower Project

Susan Amin, a seasoned entertainer with a passion for creating unforgettable gathe- rings, shares her top tips on how to be the perfect host. With years of experience plan- ning elegant events, Susan knows that great hosting lies in the details—whether it’s the ambiance, food, or personal touches that make guests feel special.

“I love to entertain, and for me, it’s all about the little details that make the experience special”, she explains.
Her approach to hosting goes beyond simply serving food; it’s about cultivating an inviting atmosphere that draws people together. “Entertaining is more than just hosting—it’s about creating an experience that reflects warmth and a sense of togetherness”, she emphasises.

Susan’s passion for thoughtful hosting starts before guests even arrive. “I usually send beautifully designed e-invites that reflect elements from the menu”, she says. She believes that carrying a cohesive theme throughout the event, from invitations to place cards, makes a significant difference. “At the table, small potted herbs, personalised coasters, or handwritten name tags add both charm and function”, she notes, highlighting the importance of making every guest feel seen and valued. Menus are also a subtle way to elevate the dining experience. Whether handwritten or printed on elegant stationery, they guide guests through the meal while showcasing the care put into each element.

For Susan, the heart of any gathering is food, and her hosting philosophy revolves around family- style dining. “I love serving my guests family-style platters or beautifully set up buffets that encourage conversation and sharing”, she explains. Her menus often tell a story, whether through local ingredients or dishes that reflect her personal tastes. And of course, she never forgets to ask her guests about dietary preferences, ensuring that everyone feels cared for.

Of course, no culinary experience is complete without an equally well-curated table setting. “Consider layering your table with various textures and heights”, Susan advises. From textured tablecloths to decorative plates, she expertly blends elegance with practicality. “I like to incorporate natural elements, like fresh flowers and seasonal fruits for vibrant centrepieces, which guests can take home afterwards”, she adds.

Susan also enhances her welcome drinks by freezing fresh herbs and fruits into ice cubes. “Try freezing berries, citrus slices, or sprigs of mint and rosemary in your ice cubes for a beautiful and functional addition to any drinks”, she suggests.

To end her soirées, Susan likes to leave guests with a refreshing finish. “A lemon and basil sorbet is always a hit”, she says, offering a light, soothing dessert that perfectly balances the flavours of the meal. This simple yet elegant finale encapsulates her thoughtful approach to entertaining, bringing a fresh and vibrant close to the evening.
But what makes her gathering

s truly unforgettable is sending guests home with thoughtful takeaways. “One of my recent favourites is mini olive oil bottles with sprigs of rosemary or small jars of homemade date jam”, she says. Collaborating with small businesses to offer unique handmade gifts, like candles or espresso cups, adds a meaningful, personal touch to the event.

Last piece of advice? Susan’s golden rule of hosting is ambiance. “Music is just as important as lighting”, she says, explaining how her playlists evolve throughout the evening, from relaxed tunes to upbeat rhythms. “The vibe should always feel easy and inviting”, she adds, emphasising that great hosting is about making guests feel comfortable and welcomed.