Macon Magazine

64 maconmagazine.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2022 CHRIS CANADY Downtown C hris Canady's hosting strategy has been a long time in the making. From hosting his first gathering in high school (complete with pizza and Wii dancing) to his more recent soirees (like having the M&R team over for a hot chocolate buffet), Canady has picked up several best practices that have helped his hosting level up. "For me, presentation is everything," Canady said. "I take great care in laying out the food, styling the counter, and placing things. Details set the vibe, the mood; they tell the visitor what type of experience they can expect to have. Oftentimes, details will inspire a visitor, too! I have had guests leave with an idea for their next gathering." To Canady, hosting is more than an event. It is an experience. "I aim to give an experience that guests did not expect to have," he said. "I am always finding ways to stay on my toes and surprise people who come to my gatherings. Whether that's a dish or a handmade cocktail, I want people to feel the intentionality I put into hosting." TOGETHER AGAIN HEARTFELT GATHERINGS WITH LOCAL HOSTS BY RACHELLE WILSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAVE BJORKMAN, JESSICA WHITLEY, AND MIKE YOUNG he South is distinguished in part by its hospitality. A welcoming home, often complete with a tall glass of sweet tea, is signature for mamas throughout the Bible Belt. But the common act of hosting friends, family, colleagues, or neighbors for dinner has undoubtedly been elevated to an art in the passing years, an art that has come to define an industry, dominating blogs, books, stores, and more. Some seem born to play host or hostess, never breaking a sweat, even when the wine glass breaks. They always know how to navigate a night of varying tastes. Watching them at work seems at once the result of a lifetime of practice while also an effortless talent. No matter what, a night with one of these master hosts is a night that ends sweetly and with a tad of hosting envy. For many of us, the inherent pressures of hosting only seem more insurmountable after over two years out of practice. The thought of inviting people in again can be daunting. But when we pause to consider the purpose for hosting — to share our blessings, lives, and favorite recipes with those we love — we can refocus our intention. Sharing your table does not have to be something grand; it can be simple and attainable. Allow the tips and tricks of these practiced (and practical) hosts help to take the pressure off. T

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