hostesses

Hostesses are hospitality professionals who welcome guests, manage arrivals, and help seat patrons in venues such as restaurants, hotels, and event spaces. While the term traditionally refers to women, the role is performed by people of various genders depending on the setting. The hostess acts as the first point of contact for guests and helps set the tone of the experience.

Core duties include greeting visitors, confirming reservations, guiding parties to appropriate tables, presenting menus, answering questions about services, and coordinating with servers and kitchen staff to maintain a smooth service flow. Hostesses may also take coats, provide directions, manage special accommodations, and assist with event or function coordination, including seating plans and accessible arrangements.

Work environments vary: in dining establishments, the hostess is commonly stationed at the entrance or host stand; in hotels, they may work at reception desks or lobby desks; at large events, they may manage guest lists, registrations, and seating charts. In some cultures, there are nightlife variants known as hostess services, which operate differently and raise separate considerations regarding safety and consent.

Skills and training commonly emphasize customer service, communication, patience, and a professional appearance. Employers value punctuality, problem solving, and the ability to multitask under pressure. Many hostesses receive on‑the‑job training or participate in hospitality programs, with emphasis on etiquette, safety, and coordination with other departments.