5 Ways to Be an Awesome, Awesome Host

1. Invite clearly:

Include necessary information for your guests in the invitation such as the date, the time, the place, the occasion, the host(s) and when and how to respond: “YES” or “NO.”

You may want to add any necessary information such as what to wear or what to bring, especially for a pot-luck.

2. Plan as if your life is on the line:

Creating your guest list;  A great group of people will make any party a success. Get everything ready—your meal prepped, the table set, your party space tidy, and refreshments ready about 1 to 2 hours before your guests arrive. This way you’ll feel calm and relaxed before the beginning of the party.

3. Be welcoming; Be attentive; Smile!

PLEASE greet your guests in a warm manner so they feel welcomed throughout the party. Look after each guest as much as you can. If you notice a guest with an empty glass or if there’s one person standing alone, take action and fix the situation.

 

4. Be the leader; It’s your party!

It’s your job to be the star of the party. You need to let your guests know when it’s time for dinner, dessert, or game time. Circulate among your guests, introduce newcomers, and stay with a each group long enough to get a conversation going.

5. Say “Thank You”:

Thank people for coming as you bid them good-bye. And don’t forget to thank anyone who brought you a gift.

 6 Ways to Be an Awesome Guest

1. Are you going/ coming: YES or NO?

If you delay your reply, you could hinder the host’s party and make it seem that the host is not important.

It’s nice to thank your host for the invitation and let him know if you can be there or not.

2. Be on time (Seriously…):

Punctuality means different things to people. Guests should arrive at or shortly after (fifteen minutes or less) the time stated on the invitation. Do NOT arrive early. If you will be seriously late, CALL your host.

3. Participate & Have Fun

When your host says that it’s time for dinner, go straight to the table. If you’re asked to participate in a party game, accept graciously no matter how you really feel.

4. Offer to help when you can:

If you’re with the host in the kitchen as he prepares the food, be specific when you offer to help.

5. Don’t be that guy (or girl):

Attacking finger foods as if you haven’t eaten in a week will not only attract the wrong kind of attention, it will also leave less food for other guests. Don’t make the host chop your fingers!

6. Thank your host twice:

Always thank your hosts enthusiastically when you say your good-byes.  A written note is always appreciated, even after casual parties.