The summertime is always great to get together with family! There is no doubt that I love seeing my boys running around with their cousins and playing with their uncles. I find that having family over is always EXTRA tiring for the hostess. WHY? Well, because I think that as a hostess you are “non stop”! You are cooking, accommodating everyone and you just want things to run smoothly. When I visit the homes of others, I NEVER want the hostess to feel tired and I always want to lend a helping hand. A few things I do to help out and assist the hostess, call me old fashioned but I think these are some things we need to be conscious of when visiting others:
Arrive and leave at a reasonable time
I always like to make sure about the time of arrival. Many people like to sleep in or they want to have things prepared before you arrive. I never want to impose on their time. I also like to leave at a reasonable time because I know having company can be tiring. I always look for clues if the hostess is tired or I pay attention to the time.
Bring something or ask if anything is needed
I think it’s important to add “less stress” on the hostess so why not help with the meal planning. Of course you can order out but I really feel like it’s more intimate if you can cook together or contribute through a potluck. If the hostess says nothing is needed I will bring dessert or a special dish that I find everyone loves. One less thing for the hostess to do right?
Lend a helping hand
As I stated before, I always want to lend a helping hand. That would mean assisting in setting things up, picking up after the gathering is done and even washing dishes if need be. Although there is a hostess it doesn’t mean that they have to do everything. They should be able to host but enjoy themselves as well. I don’t ask if they need help I just pitch in. Things get done faster, and as a hostess it feels good that someone wants to actually help out.
Never forget to say thank you and follow up with an invite
I NEVER forget to say “thank you”. I must say it a million times and I always follow up with an invite to a visit to our home. I truly believe when someone invites you to their home, the next time around you invite them. It’s great to be able to do the same for them.
Let’s share: Are we on the same page about helping the hostess?
Great advice! So many people are not taught good manners these days.
Misha,
Thanks so much for reading.
I am always analyzing so I just think –gosh, why not try to help someone out 😉
Of course, when others visit me I never want them to feel like they have to help–lol
Thanks for reading and commenting 😉 I appreciate it
I totally agree, especially about bringing something to share. I like the image of a fruit bowl, because that is one of the easiest things to just throw together and bring. I also keep a few boxes of brownie mix on hand so I can quickly come up with a “homemade” dessert! You’re welcome over at my house any time! 🙂
Nikki