So what are your plans? Are you enjoying time with family? Staying close to home? Visiting friends? Here are some tips on how to be a considerate, helpful house guest:
1. RSVP - Respond to the invitation. A prompt RSVP lets the host know whether or not you will be there and allows for adequate planning in terms of food, and activities, as well as possible sleeping arrangements and guest
compatibility.
I attended an event last weekend where the actual attendees exceeded the number anticipated, resulting in a lack of seating for everyone. While most people thought it was not a big deal -- just bring out more chairs from inside the building -- it did cause unneeded stress to the hosts and delayed the program itself. There is no excuse, other than thoughtlessness and lack of consideration.
2. Bring a small gift for the host. A bottle of wine, a treat you know the host enjoys, a candle -- something to say "thank you for the invitation" and as recognition for the time, effort and energy that has been put forth in creating an enjoyable event.
3. Ask what you can do to help. Set the table? Serve drinks? Greet people at the door? There may be 101 ways in which you can be of assistance.
4. If you see an obvious need, pitch in and take care of it. Is the garbage full? Empty it. Does the dog need a walk? Grab the leash (and a bag.) Is Grandpa sitting by himself? Go over and have a chat.
5. If you are asked to do something, do it! It may be something as simple as keeping a door closed (so as not to overwork an air conditioner), stay out of the kitchen or go relax and enjoy the sunset. It may not be about you so much as your host's peace of mind and needing a few minutes of quiet.
6. Follow-up with a thank you note to let your host(s) know how much you enjoyed your visit and their hospitality. It needs to be sincere and doesn't have to be more than a few sentences; email is okay, but a handwritten note really stands out.
Your hosts will appreciate your consideration.
