When hosting an event or gathering, you may find yourself wanting to vary your language when describing the act of having guests. There are a multitude of synonyms and phrases to express this concept, each with their own unique nuance. A few options could include "entertained visitors," "played host," "welcomed company," "invited acquaintances," or "received guests." Depending on the context and tone you're looking to convey, any of these options could serve as a suitable replacement for the common phrase "had guests." Experimenting with language can be a fun way to add variety and creativity to your communication.