When you cook for someone, you’re expressing your love for them. This sentiment drives María Paola Nuñez, better known as "Mandoka," a young content creator who enjoys hosting unforgettable breakfasts, lunches, and dinners for her loved ones. From her apartment in New York, Mandoka has crafted some of the most memorable moments in her life, thanks to her keen attention to detail and an exquisite menu to remember.
During the pandemic, Mandoka began using her social media platforms to share her passion for cooking. Now, with over a million followers on Instagram, she has discovered happiness through culinary arts, using it as a way to connect and explore. Initially, her content focused on simple recipes enjoyed among friends. However, her style has gradually evolved into a seamless blend of gastronomy and storytelling.
Through her creative ideas and narratives, Mandoka offers a sensory journey where cooking transcends a mundane task. Her secret lies in her ability to transform her home into a space where delicious dishes, engaging conversations, and unforgettable experiences come together. To share her wisdom, Mandoka exclusively reveals the four essential keys to being a great host.
One of the primary joys of being a host is the opportunity to enjoy pleasant moments with your guests. However, the pressure of planning details, food, and the desire for perfection can sometimes lead to stress, detracting from the enjoyment of the evening. Mandoka emphasizes that hosts must also relish the experience. She suggests, "If nerves start overwhelming you, consider enjoying a glass of wine a few minutes before your guests arrive. Listening to music can also help set the right atmosphere. Additionally, try to have most of the food ready beforehand to minimize stress and distractions."
Preparation is fundamental, beginning with the menu. According to Mandoka, selecting dishes based on the guest count and the gathering’s theme is crucial. She prefers easy-to-serve options she can prepare on the day of the event. Creating a clean and inviting space is next; she recommends incorporating fresh flowers on the table to bring a cheerful, light vibe. Lighting plays a vital role as well. "I aim for warm light to make everything feel more homely. Music is also indispensable," she adds, often curating a playlist in advance that matches the ambiance she wants to create.
Mandoka highlights that being a great host doesn’t require culinary expertise. The key is ensuring everything served feels homemade. "When welcoming my guests, I always prepare a cheese board with seasonal fruit or my foolproof recipe of chopped garlic with olive oil, tomatoes, and fresh basil," she explains. For dessert, she keeps it simple and easy to prepare. "Strawberries and cream, tiramisu, or affogato are must-haves to surprise my guests with something delightful yet easy to make."
Exploring decorative choices is one of the most enjoyable aspects of hosting. Mandoka loves to prepare the environment so guests feel comfortable and happy. She prefers to keep all serving dishes visible, adding a sense of abundance. "I’m a fan of candles. I like to light an aromatic candle at least an hour before guests arrive to ensure my home smells inviting." In spring or summer, she opts for a spray to scent every corner. Another secret to enlivening gatherings involves playing with fabrics—mixing different colors, patterns, and textures for tablecloths and napkins adds a natural and cozy touch to the setting.
By following Mandoka’s tips, anyone can elevate their hosting game and create an atmosphere where guests feel cherished and at home. Whether through careful preparation, imaginative decoration, or the heartwarming act of cooking, hosting can be an artful way to express love and connection.
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