So, I consciously avoid taking over every holiday and every opportunity to celebrate. Tonight, I am attending a party at some friends' house. Here are a few tips that I plan on following myself.
- Show up on-time. That "grand entrance" business doesn't fly anymore. Try to show up within 30 minutes of the posted start time. If you can't, let the host know. If everyone pulls a late entrance, the host will be left wondering if anyone will show up!
- Offer to bring something or to help out. But don't push it! Some people prefer to work alone in the kitchen. They have a plan, and they want to stick to it.
- If the host says they don't need anything, bring a little gift. A bottle of wine, a plant, a nice scented candle. If you bake, some homemade bread or cookies. It doesn't have to be fancy. It just has to say "thank you."
- While you don't want to push your help, you do want to be sensitive to the stress your host might encounter. Be sensitive. If you notice they are looking a bit beat down, jump in and gather up glasses. Ask again if they're sure there's nothing you can do. Even if they say no, the offer will ease their stress.
- Treat their home as you would your own; provided you are a good housekeeper!
- Do not overstay your welcome. Unless you are very good friends with the host, you should not be the last person to leave!
- Before you leave, ask quietly if you can help tidy up. Again, don't push. Let them decline if they so choose, but make sure they know you're glad to help.
No comments:
Post a Comment