Welcome to the El Gusto Hosting Handbook 2.0 — your practical guide to Special Weekend & Overnight Guests Entertaining.

The handbook covers every stage of hosting, from initial planning and spring cleaning to menu preparation, shopping, table setting, weekly task lists, and post-weekend tips. You can use it in any order, as much or as little as you like — even a few helpful ideas will make it worthwhile. Throughout, you’ll find Mrs Gusto’s tried-and-tested tips from years of hosting experience.

How to use the handbook:

Read through first to understand what’s included and decide how best to use it.

Digital-friendly option: Use the editable checklists and templates on your computer or mobile device. Highlighted sections can be completed and ticked off as you go. On mobile, click the pencil icon to access the interactive PDF version. Remember to save your changes each session.

Excel & Google Sheets Suite of Templates: A workbook of the key planning templates is also available, making it easy to collaborate and keep everything in one place. You can access it via the Google Sheets link or download the Excel version — both contain the same template and can be shared for real-time collaboration.

Printed option: Print the handbook and complete it by hand if you prefer.

Happy Entertaining!

The Hosting Handbook

Printable Pages, Templates Only

Google Sheet Template

Excel Template