It’s not too soon to start your plans for family gatherings for the holiday season. Whether you will be the host or the house guest it is important to have great manners especially when you are family so that you will have fabulous memories and lots of fun!
Be a gracious guest…The Marian Way
Be sure to RSVP. The time to RSVP is as soon as you receive the invitation. Don’t overstay your welcome. Make your visit short and sweet; no more than 3 nights.
Keep your personal belongings to a minimum. You don’t need to bring your entire closet or home with you.
Clean up after yourself by keeping your area neat and tidy. Make the bed, wipe down the bathroom, hang wet towels.
Help or pitch in during mealtime by offering to set the table, clear the table, or load the dishwasher.
If traveling with children or pets be sure to clean up after them.
Be respectful and courteous by following the house rules regarding removing shoes in the house, eating in designated rooms other that the kitchen, and being mindful of when it’s time for lights out.
Offer to share in the food costs or send a gift card to their local grocer with a thank you note.
Be a gracious host…The Marian Way
Let your guests know when you would like them to arrive as well as how long they can stay.
Give your guests an idea of planned activities so they can plan what clothing to bring.
Ask your guests what their favorite foods are and if they have special dietary needs and restrictions. Stock your kitchen and bar with your guests’ favorites.
Prepare the guest room by removing clutter and make the bed with fresh comfortable linens and pillows. Provide extra blankets, dresser, and closet space for their clothes.
Clean and sanitize the bathroom so that it is immaculate and stocked with clean towels, toilet paper, and essential toiletries such as soap, shower gel, toothpaste, shampoo, and conditioner.
Provide the Wi-Fi code and TV channels.
Let your guests know when mealtime is especially breakfast. Set-up the coffee area so that the first up can brew their coffee.
Marian Taylor is the creator of The Marian Way. Her mission is to support people in living a simple, and beautiful lifestyle. Send questions or comments to: Marian@TheMarianWay.com