Know What Your People Love

   I was invited to a Friendsgiving this week and before I could even ask what to bring, the hostess said, “Can you make your meatballs?” It caught me in the best way. I thought, “Ooo… I guess this really has become my thing.” And honestly, I love that.

   Because here is what I believe: the real hosting hack isn’t about the perfect recipe or the fanciest presentation. It is knowing what your people love.

   Food is emotional. Certain dishes feel comforting, familiar, nostalgic. When someone remembers something you made and wants it again, it says more about the feeling than the food. It means it landed. It made their night a little warmer.

   And that kind of connection doesn’t come from a strategy. It comes from paying attention without even realizing you’re doing it. The way you mentally note who always reaches for seconds. Who gravitates toward cozy comfort food. Who lights up when there’s something saucy on the table. Who loves a bright citrus moment. What the kids will actually eat for once.

   These things naturally stick with you. And when you cook or bring something based on those quiet observations, it just feels right. It’s not a performance. It is simply part of caring for your people.

To bring that energy into your own gatherings, here are a few simple ways to cook with intention:

• Make the dish your friends always go back for
• Think about flavors your group naturally gravitates toward
• Remember small preferences without making a big deal about it
• Keep something kid-friendly in the mix
• Bring a wine or treat you know the host enjoys
• Add a tiny personal touch that feels warm, not forced

   To me, that is what maximalism in the kitchen is all about. Not more for the sake of more, but more heart. More joy. More of the good stuff that makes people feel at home.

   So yes, I’ll be showing up to Friendsgiving with a big pot of meatballs. Not because I’m trying to impress anyone, but because it feels like the most natural thing in the world. And that, to me, is the real joy of hosting and gathering.