What are 5 ways to be a gracious host?

Question

When it comes to having guests over for dinner, what are some ways I can make it a very positive experience? What is the proper etiquette? What would make you feel welcomed in my home?

LX V I loved your suggestion about putting pets away. I never thought of that one! Good call.

Answer 1

Greet them at the door with the charm turned on (Hi, so glad you could make it. Let me hang your coat up here. Can I get you a drink?)
Make sure your guests mingle - especially if they don't know each other. ("Oh Jack, have you met Suzy? Suzy works down at the zoo, she has the funniest stories about gorillas.")
Appetizers and drinks give people something to do while they mingle.
Finish most of the cooking ahead of time so you only have to pop into the kitchen to stir the sauce or pull the pies out of the oven. (Be prepared for some people to follow you. People love to mingle and help in the kitchen. Make sure the table is set ahead of time)
If you have boisterous or nervous pets, it might be a good night for them to visit their grandparents or have an overnight at the kennel (or at least den them up in the laundry room)

And I know this is number six but remember above all you are out to have a good time, not a picture perfect evening. Keep a sense of grace and good humor for when the unexpected happens (toilets back up, oven gets swtiched over to self-clean and burns the roast, whatever. Just stay on your toes and be ready to improvise)

Answer 2

So many wonderful suggestions so far! I'll just add to the list:

* Be sure to point out where the bathroom is. If possible, have an unscented candle in a pretty holder lit - it makes it easier to see the bathroom and tells guests that they are indeed in the right place.

* Have a box of facial tissues handy. I have allergies, and I find it so embarassing if I have to ask for a tissue and my host has to go looking around for a box.

* Unless you know your guests well, avoid room scents, inscense, scented oils/candles, etc. Allergy and asthmas triggers can be very subtle.

* Some soft background music (and no, it doesn't have to be jazz or classical) is nice b/c it doesn't make people feel like they HAVE to fill the silence.

Bottom line, be comfortable, natural, and have fun. The best way to make an atmosphere where guests can enjoy themselves is if you yourself are able to relax and spend time with them.

Answer 3

Rule #1 and most importantly: Be prepared. This will allow you to relax thus allowing your guests to settle in for the event you have planned.

Rule #2: Be flexible. Don't try to force your vision of the event on others. Allow guests a say in things.

Rule #3: Do what you are good at in terms of food, beverage and aesthetics.

Rule #4: Have fun! Your guests will be sure to join in, unless they arrived determined to have a horrible time.

Rule #5: Please do not use a social event as an opportunity to impress. Rather, endeavor to make your guests feel they are the ones with the mojo.

Answer 4

these apply to a visit from the queen but most apply to every day entertaining ...

If you were one of the 54 people chosen to greet Queen Elizabeth II when she visits Richmond on May 3, be advised that she isn’t to be treated like a long lost buddy from college — Her Majesty expects a certain level of decorum. So, polish up on your etiquette with these tips from Katherine Barrett Baker, director of The Sabot School of Etiquette:

1: Do not touch the Queen; only shake her hand if she offers her hand first.
2: Don’t talk with your hands — this includes the “thumbs up” gesture, which evidently is considered obscene in many European countries.
3: Don’t speak to the Queen unless she speaks to you first.
4: Address the Queen as “Your Majesty.”
5: Abide by the provided dress code — no jeans or tennis shoes.
6: Don’t stare at the Queen.
7: Keep your hands out of your pockets.

Answer 5

1. your home should be clean and comfortable when guests arrive.

2. Greet them at the door (both spouses)

3. If they have children settle the kids into an area with something to do, or introduce them to your children.

4. Offer them something to drink within a few minutes of arrival.

5. Give them a run down of when you will have dinner and what you are serving.


NOTE: I have begun asking people if they have any dietary restrictions when I invite them over that way I can prepare a meal that suits them.

Answer 6

call your quests in advance to make sure there are no allergies or food problems with what you are serving..so this way if there are you can make a substitue...

try to have as much done as possible or enlist a friend to help in the kitchen so when your guests arrive you are able to welcoe them and chat not running into the kitchen...

make sure you introduce everyoine who comes to others they may not know

suggest after dinner activities like a game but do not insist on it..some people just like to chat...

keep conversation light and be sure to include all who are there in the topic..this way noone will feel left out..

point out the restroom and a place to put coats and shoes right way so they are not forced to ask where the bathroom is..


hope this helps out.

Answer 7

Do not confiscate their guns at the door; that always puts people off.

Don't mention that their spurs are scratching up the floor; people can be sensitive about their footwear.

Just ignore it when they down that expensive wine in one gulp; we don't all have good table manners but like to think we do.