Hostessing I learned from Monica Geller

With Canadian Thanksgiving around the corner—and as I’ve been rewatching Friends lately—I thought I’d share a little sneak peek from my  fall devotional. This entry is inspired by Monica Geller.

Because yes, she loved control and spotless counters—but more than that, Monica was the heartbeat of her circle. The friend who kept the door open, the coffee brewing, and always found room for one more at the table.

In a season all about gratitude, gathering, and feeding the people we love… I couldn’t resist giving her a chapter.

Here’s a glimpse from Day 11 — Monica Geller: The Warm & Devoted Hostess
(For all of us who say “come over, I’ll make coffee” and truly mean it 🤎)
Day 11 — Monica Geller: The Warm & Devoted Hostess

“I’m the hostess, not those guys! I’m always the hostess! But even when I was little… the girls brought their dolls to my tea party.” — Monica Geller, Friends

Monica Geller is often remembered for her quirks—her need for order, her love of cleaning—but what I really see when I watch Friends is a woman who was the heartbeat of her circle. Her apartment wasn’t just a set, it was the gathering place. Coffee was always brewed in the morning, food was always ready, and her door was always open.

She loved things a certain way, but that didn’t stop her from inviting everyone in. She was the kind of friend who would feed you, listen to you, and make you feel like you belonged—mess and all. That’s what made her so endearing.

And when you think about fall and Thanksgiving—Monica is the queen. Every year, she singlehandedly cooked the entire feast for her friends, pouring her love into every dish. She even went so far as to make an extra meal just for Chandler, who hated Thanksgiving and everything that came with it. That’s devotion, that’s warmth, and that’s love in action.

Monica reminds us that hospitality doesn’t have to mean grandeur. Sometimes it’s as simple as brewing coffee in the morning, keeping your door open, and creating a place where people know they’ll always be welcomed.

Scripture

“Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.” — 1 Peter 4:9

Prayer

Lord, thank You for the gift of friendship and the beauty of sharing life together. Help me to keep my heart and home open, to welcome others with warmth and generosity, and to find joy in creating spaces where people feel loved and at ease. Amen.

A Cozy Fall Moment

Take a cue from Monica and brew a fresh pot of coffee or tea, then invite a friend to drop by—even if it’s just for an hour. Don’t overthink it. Light a candle, put out a plate of cookies, and enjoy the cozy gift of connection.