When I think of etiquette, I generally think of honoring the traditions of those whose home you’re in and good table manners. But there are so many more things to learn about etiquette. Like the etiquette of a hostess. From what should go in an invitation to what to do to make your guests feel comfortable.
Start With The Invitation
I don’t know about you, but I like an invitation that not only gives the basic information of date, time and venue. But I like a comprehensive invite with details like what will be served and what to wear. Your guests should know what to expect so they can know whether to eat before or when they get there. You could say, Serving hors d’oeuvres, or Buffet style dinner. Attire: dressy casual or semi-formal. If there is a valet service specify that. Valet: $10. A section designated at the bottom of the invite is where this can go.
Greeting
Someone should be at the door greeting your guests. And guess what? It doesn’t always have to be you. You may have a girlfriend who loves greeting people with smiles, and big hugs. Ask that friend to be your designated greeter. Then you make sure to greet them after they’ve come in. Tell them where to hang their coat or where to put their shoes. Let them know where the bathroom is. And where to put their dish if it is a potluck.
Hospitality
When people say, “My home is your home?” What does that really mean? We definitely want people to feel comfortable and welcome in our home. And we all have different definitions of what that looks like. Some hostess homes are very open. You have access to most of the rooms. You can put your coat in the master bedroom, use any bathroom and chat in any living space. And sometimes you will get a tour of the home. Some hostesses designate a few rooms for entertaining. The family room and or living room, the patio, and a powder room. And all other rooms are closed off. However you do it, it is fine. We just want to make sure that our guests are enjoying themselves in the space that they’re in.
Make It Comfortable And Be Flexible
One thing guests sometimes remember even more than the beautiful decor and the fun is how comfortable they felt. Try not to set your air condition or heater too hot or too cold. Then be willing to adjust it as needed. If your sofa is filled with pillows from end to end, consider moving all of them. Or just keeping one on each end. If your party is outside, consider if it gets too hot, cold, or starts raining. If flies, bees or ants are a constant nuisance, have a back up plan to move the party inside. At a picnic or event at a park, you can keep food covered until it is served and while people are eating. Then, uncover only when being used.
You may love the outdoors. But you may have some guests that are very uncomfortable. So to try and strike a balance, consider these accommodations:
- Have some activities inside and some outside
- Have an outdoor fan or heater
- Purchase a citronella candle to ward off mosquitoes
- Make sure to have any wasp nests removed especially in the area your guests will be.
- Have the entertainment in a covered or shaded area
- Have plenty of cool drinks so your guests can stay cool and hydrated.
End With Thank You
Your guests have looked forward to your party since they received your invitation. They may have gotten their hair or nails done. Or, even bought a new outfit for it. Perhaps they brought you a gift if it’s a birthday party. You just to make sure they know they’re appreciated, definitely thank everyone for coming. But it’s usually good to have some sort of favor or parting gift.
HOSTESS CHALLENGE: What backup plan will you have for your guests in inclimate weather?
