The day before Thanksgiving is said to be the busiest travel day of the year. People traveling all over the country to spend Thanksgiving day with loved ones. Some of us will be hosting friends or family tomorrow and many will be guests on this holiday, however, houseguest etiquette is something everyone should understand, ensuring a pleasant visit for both host and guest!
Those of you who are opening up your home, hosting this holiday, put many hours, even days into preparing for your guests arrival. Your hard work doesn’t go unnoticed. If you are housing a guest your preparation is even more extensive. This is why I would like to share some tips for those who are a houseguest during the holiday season.
Bring a “hostess” gift
I never enter a person’s home empty handed. If I am attending a dinner, bring a dessert or if I’m going to watch the game, I’ll make a fan friendly appetizer. The bottom line is bring some sort of gift, it doesn’t have to be extravagant, but it is a symbol of your gratitude. Present your host with the gift in a timely order, after you are settled and have greeted each other. Some of my favorite hostess gifts to give include: a bottle of wine, a book, an attractively wrapped kitchen gadget or serving dish and of course, your culinary specialty, with a copy of the recipe.
*check out gifts.com for wonderful hostess gifts! http://www.gifts.com/personality/host-hostess/1MU
Make yourself useful
Your host has spent hours, maybe even days, preparing for the festivities. Offer to help him or her around the kitchen and assist in household tasks. Do not expect your host to wait on you, clean up after yourself.
Keep your space tidy
Be respectful of your host and maintain a neat an orderly space. You are not at a hotel, it is your responsibility to tidy up after yourself. The same is true of the bath area.
Be grateful
Simply stated, be thankful for the generosity of your friend or family member. Make sure you thank your host while you are in attendance and upon your departure, reciprocate the offer. Send out a thank you note once you are back home. A written thank you is an elegant, thoughtful way to display your gratitude.
I hope you've found these tips helpful. Have a safe and Happy Thanksgiving... and as always live beautifully.
