Some of life’s most meaningful conversations happen around a table, and that is where Louise Volschenk has found much of her own joy.
The media personality and author has turned her love of food, family, and bringing people together into a new book, The Art of Hosting, a personal look at what it really means to welcome people into your home.

Volschenk’s love of hosting was not sparked by one particular moment. It grew naturally as she got older and began creating her own gatherings. She found joy in planning meals, setting the scene, and turning an ordinary get-together into something memorable. “Hosting wasn’t simply something I enjoyed doing; it had become one of the ways I express love.”

That idea is central to the book. While beautiful tables, good food, and thoughtful décor all have their place, Volschenk believes the true measure of a good host is how guests feel. “Do they feel welcomed, relaxed, included, and cared for?”

Read more: Lonehill author instils confidence in children through affirmation

She believes people should leave a gathering feeling loved and carrying a good memory with them, but that does not mean everything has to be perfect. Behind the scenes, Volschenk admits she is sometimes rushing around trying to get everything done before guests arrive. As a businesswoman and mother, she has had moments where she is answering work messages, finishing the food, and lighting candles just minutes before the doorbell rings. “I may look calm when I open the door, but there is a very good chance I was running around moments earlier.”

That honesty is reflected throughout The Art of Hosting, which does not present entertaining as something reserved for people with enormous homes, expensive crockery, or professional cooking skills. Instead, Volschenk encourages people to start with what they have and focus on making their guests feel comfortable.

The book also tells a much more personal story. Volschenk opens up about her relationship with food and how, particularly during periods when she struggled with her weight, she came to view food as something negative. Rediscovering her love of cooking led her to experiment in the kitchen and, ultimately, inspired the book.

Also read: 16-year-old author launches her second book

Writing the book also brought out a more vulnerable side of Volschenk. Rather than simply putting recipes on paper, she wanted to share the stories and emotions behind them. People who know her through the spotlight may therefore discover a different Louise, one who has experienced grief, found healing through cooking, and has had her fair share of kitchen disasters.

She describes the book as containing beauty, but also honesty, humour, and heart. Her advice to anyone nervous about hosting is to start small. “Invite a few people you are comfortable with, prepare an uncomplicated meal, and use what you already have. You do not need matching crockery, an enormous home, or restaurant-quality food.”

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates!