With a few common sense tips, and a little forethought, you'll be the most sought after holiday guest
A great holiday guest is mindful of their host's time, energy, and space. They always ask “what can I bring?”and help clean up without being asked. Also, NEVER bring an extra guest without asking.
Go with the flow! Be open to different family traditions, and take the opportunity to step out of your comfort zone; you never know what new joy you may find.
A wonderful holiday guest shows genuine gratitude for the hospitality they're receiving. Be the literal embodiment of “merry & bright!” (or at least put on a clean shirt.)
They ask about household preferences, (take ya dang shoes off!), respect the host's space and belongings, (don’t snoop), and other household protocols, (use the poo-pourri, for the sake of us all.)
Good guests contribute to a warm, pleasant atmosphere. They engage in conversations and bring a spirit of joy and connection to the gathering. However, if you know your host you know that look of, “I have some hot goss to tell you,” or, “I need to vent right now!” A good guest is a good listener, and reads your bestie’s body language.
These behaviors are guaranteed to get you un-invited next year. So, avoid them at all costs.
Not all “time to go” signs are as apparent as the mid-west *double knee slap and “welp”* Guests who arrive uninvited, are oblivious to social cues about when it's time to leave, or show no initiative to help are the ultimate “uncle Eddies.”
Bad guests are loud, messy, and disrespectful of the household's routine, this INCLUDES children. They might leave their belongings everywhere, make excessive noise, ignore family rules, or create unnecessary chaos.
Some guests treat their hosts like a free hotel and restaurant service. They expect to be catered to, complain about meals or accommodations, (if you don’t like the food, LIE!); make unreasonable requests, and show little appreciation for the effort being made on their behalf.
Showing up with extra people or bringing pets without permission is a real Grinch move. Also, leave your drama at home unless you want to be haunted by Jacob Marley.
Parties are meant to be fun but getting too deep in the egg nog and talking about your personal views on everything wrong in the world, you’ll wake up to more than a lump of coal in your stocking. (lookin’ at you 30 text messages calling you a Scrooge)
Remember, the most important aspect of a host gift is the sentiment behind it. Consider the host's personal taste and style, add a handwritten note, and—beautiful packaging elevates any gift.
A carefully selected assortment of high-quality foods shows both thoughtfulness and sophistication; go a few steps above typical grocery store fare to show your care.
Wine. Spirit. Proxy. Or home-made simple syrup, a classic host gift that never goes out of style. If your host has kids, there’s nothing more magical than the gift of blowing bubbles; not all bottles need to be for grownups.
Practical yet beautiful items that enhance home entertaining.
Donating in your host’s name. Think of a local charity organization dear to your host’s heart. Or an international organizations active in a place your host has traveled. We support the American Cancer Society, Hiefer International, and World Literacy Fund.
A living gift that brightens the home and serves as a lasting reminder of your appreciation.