Fall 2025 Unscripted Magazine - Flipbook - Page 16
The art & heart
OF HOSTING
F
or more than 50 years, Marcia Wharton has
helped make the art of entertaining feel
approachable, joyful, and unforgettable.
As the founder of Marcia Wharton Associates, she’s
guided thousands—from executives to everyday hosts—
toward gatherings filled with confidence, presence,
and polish. Through lively seminars, etiquette
coaching, keynote talks, and even a televised holiday
﹢ Stay Distinctively You: Your authentic style,
background, and traditions are the heart of your
hospitality and what makes your gatherings truly
memorable. Hosting is an extension of who you are—
so honor your roots and personal flair, and don’t be
afraid to break away from convention. These unique
touches are what leave a lasting impression.
﹢ Be Creative: Think beyond your own space—
entertaining series with WITF, Marcia has turned her
hosting in community venues or restaurants can
passion for hospitality into a lifelong calling.
make setup and cleanup easier while giving your
For Marcia, entertaining family and friends is about
guests a new, inviting environment to enjoy.
nurturing the soul and building genuine connections.
For those who may not see themselves as natural
She champions the power of one-on-one relationships
hosts, Marcia offers encouragement to look inward.
and the beauty of enriching friendships at every age.
You’re already equipped with your own talents and
During a recent Pathways Institute for Lifelong
style; there’s no single “right” way to welcome others.
Learning® course, “Creative and Easy Entertaining for
When teaching the art of hospitality, Marcia often
the Rest of your Life,” Marcia shared practical tips to
shares this timeless wisdom from philosopher
keep entertaining joyful and effortless, no matter the
Epictetus to inspire a deeper understanding of
stage of life:
what it means to host:
﹢ Keep it Easy: Use what you already have and
“At feasts, remember that you are entertaining two
choose recipes that bring you joy and confidence.
guests, body and soul. What you give to the body,
Remember, some of the deepest connections happen
you presently lose; what you give to the soul, you
simply over a cup of coffee—entertaining doesn’t
keep forever.”
have to be complicated to be meaningful.
True hospitality nourishes more than the appetite—
it feeds the spirit and fosters lasting connections.
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