Host Prep

hōst/

noun

1.

a person who receives or entertains other people as guests.

May I be bold and make the following suggestions?

1. If you have guests coming in to town create an inviting space for them. If it's on the couch in the middle of all the chaos find a special spot for their suitcase and provide extra blankets and a plush pillow. Not the booger infested, flat-as-a-pancake one off your child's bed. If you are able to provide a bedroom for your guests make sure there is a nightstand and lamp. Magazines are a nice touch too. And for all guests provide clean (preferably white) towels and a fresh bar of soap. No guest wants to use a slimey bar of old soap. Especially with a hair on it. EW! Want to take it a step further? Tie it up with a ribbon and a tag that says "Welcome". A little bit of thought goes a long way.

2. Plan something. The festivities are over now what? Sitting around is boring and causes tension. Make an agenda. Go to the movies, buy tickets the theater, visit something local, go on a walk, have a family fashion show. Do something and have it laid out! Keeping everyone busy is a good thing.

3. Ask for help. Don't do it all on your own. If someone offers help for goodness sake put your super hero cape away and take it.

4. My favorite way to host a dinner? Buffet style! Your pretty table can stay pretty and guests can go back for seconds or thirds (or fourths) without having to ask. If you want your guests to feel comfortable this is the way to go.

5. Lastly, but most importantly.....if you are the guest, take a hostess gift. Even if the hostess is your Aunt Nelly and you've been going there for years. Everyone likes to feel appreciated. Even Aunt Nelly. Keep it simple, inexpensive, and thoughtful. You can never go wrong with a bouquet of fresh flowers, a new kitchen tool, or a Target gift card. Even a thoughtful handwritten card hidden in a special spot to be found later by the host is a fun surprise.

May we all open our hearts and our homes this Thanksgiving!
It's Monday.  Make it a GREAT one!