MODULE 4: TYPES OF HOSTESSES
There are different types of hostesses, each designed to meet the unique demands of various hospitality
environments and guest expectations. While all roles share the core goal of providing a warm, seamless
experience, the setting defines their specific responsibilities, tone of service, and level of formality
required.
Restaurant Hostess
The restaurant hostess welcomes and seats diners, manages reservations and waitlists, and ensures a
smooth and positive service experience. As the first point of contact, they provide customer service and
coordinate with servers to streamline seating and flow.
Key responsibilities:
- Greet guests warmly upon arrival to create a welcoming environment
- Manage reservations: take, confirm, and communicate them to kitchen and service staff
- Escort guests to their tables and ensure efficient seating flow
- Maintain an updated waitlist and provide accurate wait times
- Serve as a liaison between guests, servers, and the kitchen
- Be familiar with the menu, including daily specials, ingredients, and preparation methods
- Keep the waiting area tidy, clean, and pleasant at all times
Event Hostess
An event hostess ensures a smooth and enjoyable guest experience by greeting attendees, providing
information, and offering support throughout the event. They are the first point of contact and help guests
feel welcome and well-organized.
Key responsibilities:
- Welcome guests warmly and ensure they feel comfortable and part of the event
- Provide information: schedules, location guidance, and answer any questions
- Escort guests to designated areas (seating, bars, interest points) and ensure smooth flow
- Manage guest lists and check-ins for the event
- Assist during the event: distribute snacks or promotional materials, help with post-event cleanup
- Coordinate with vendors and staff to ensure smooth execution
- Address guest concerns or issues and find quick solutions
- Maintain a friendly, helpful, and positive attitude throughout the event
Pool and Beach Hostess
A pool or beach hostess is responsible for creating a positive experience in outdoor leisure areas. This
includes welcoming guests, assisting with seating, offering amenities like towels, and maintaining
cleanliness and comfort. They may also manage reservations and guest requests.
Key responsibilities:
- Welcome guests to the pool or beach area
- Help guests find and select seating like lounge chairs or cabanas
- Distribute and manage amenities like towels, umbrellas, and sunscreen
- Handle reservations and related inquiries for the area
- Answer questions and assist guests throughout their visit
- Maintain cleanliness and order in the pool or beach zone
- Promote additional services or premium amenities as needed
- Report inappropriate behavior (e.g., intoxication, safety concerns) to the supervisor or manager
Yacht Hostess (Stewardess)
A yacht hostess, also known as a stewardess or steward, provides hospitality and service to guests on
board. Duties include maintaining the yacht’s interior, preparing and serving meals, keeping areas clean,
and anticipating guest needs.
Key responsibilities:
- Clean guest cabins, common areas, and bathrooms
- Prepare and serve meals, snacks, and drinks according to guest preferences
- Anticipate guest needs and provide concierge-style service
- Handle laundry for both guests and crew
- Assist with tasks like table setting, flower arrangements, party setup, and luggage management
- Ensure the yacht is fully stocked with necessary supplies
- Facilitate communication between guests, crew, and the captain
In-Home Event Hostess
A hostess for in-home events is responsible for greeting guests, managing flow, and ensuring a seamless,
enjoyable experience. The focus is on creating a welcoming atmosphere and providing excellent guest
service in a residential setting.
Key responsibilities:
- Serve as the first point of contact, ensuring a warm welcome
- Guide guests to appropriate areas and help maintain smooth circulation
- Provide information and directions as needed
- Assist guests with special needs (e.g., seating preferences, dietary restrictions)
- Keep high-traffic areas organized and clean (e.g., entrances, bathrooms)
- Support event setup, such as table settings, menu distribution, and food/beverage coordination
- Create a pleasant atmosphere through a friendly and attentive attitude
- Collaborate closely with the proprietor to ensure everything runs smoothly and guest needs are met