More Than a Hosting Guide: Finding Community in Having People Over

When I first requested Having People Over, I thought I knew what to expect—a lighthearted, practical guide to hosting gatherings. What I found instead was something far more meaningful and layered. Yes, it’s a book about entertaining, complete with approachable recipes, thoughtful tips, and practical advice, but it’s also a celebration of connection. Chelsea Fagan beautifully explores how gathering people in our homes—no matter how simple or imperfect—can strengthen our sense of community and deepen our relationships.

One of the things I appreciated most is Fagan’s emphasis on creating an atmosphere that’s inviting without being intimidating. So often, books about hosting can unintentionally make readers feel inadequate or pressured to achieve a certain aesthetic. She takes the opposite approach. Her tone is warm, reassuring, and refreshingly honest. She reminds readers that hospitality isn’t about curated perfection—it’s about creating a space where people feel seen, welcomed, and comfortable.

I also loved the inclusion of a chapter devoted to being a good guest. It’s such a small but powerful idea—and one that often gets overlooked in books about entertaining. The author approaches it with the same grace and practicality that runs throughout the book, encouraging mindfulness and reciprocity in how we show up for others.

If you’re someone who already loves entertaining, you’ll recognize some familiar ideas here, but Fagan’s voice and perspective bring something new and modern to the table. Her reflections on why we gather, and how those moments shape our lives, feel especially timely in a world where genuine connection can sometimes feel hard to come by.

Ultimately, Having People Over is as much about the why of entertaining as it is the how. It’s a reminder that hosting doesn’t have to be elaborate to be meaningful—and that the simple act of inviting someone into your space can be a deeply human and generous gesture.

Thank you to the publisher for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. Having People Over is out now and available for purchase.