How to Be a Good Host Now and in the Future
“Go oft to the house of thy friend, for weeds choke the unused path.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson
We’re social creatures who yearn to connect and visit with one another. Go ahead and extend the invitation for outdoor gatherings and family celebrations, overnight visits or longer, albeit with consideration right now for the pandemic.
Dane shares insights about being a good host. The best hosts have also been house guests, so they understand both roles and responsibilities well.
“We love to greet our guests, but we also allow them to catch their breath and settle in,” says Dane. “Being a good host is about making sure your guests feel comfortable and at ease. Letting them know where to put their belongings and communicating beforehand or early in the visit anything of importance.”
The best hosts build opportunities for guests to be social but to also be by themselves. It’s up to the host to set the mood by being relaxed and at ease, which encourages guests to relax and unwind.
Dane and his husband, Joshua, always have a stocked bar and healthy snacks on hand for guests who drop by. For overnight visitors, the guest rooms are always prepared to accept guests. When they know a guest is arriving, they make sure to re-stock the pantry, provide fresh-cut flowers, and make sure that their pampering touches are ready.
PAMPERING TOUCHES
Simply consider how you prefer to be treated as a guest and let that be your guide. Obviously, you’re not running a hotel, but you can take a hint from the best hotels in the world. Most of us travel with some kind of smart device - a phone, smartwatch, tablet, kindle, or laptop. You needn’t be extravagant when creating a welcoming atmosphere, but little luxuries are lovely:
Fresh flowers
Luxurious linens
Water carafe with still or sparkling water
Lavender-scented candles and matches
Notecards and a designer pen
Cleverly displayed Wifi information and a charging station
Guest bathrobe and extra toiletries
Tissues and wastebasket
Magazines, newspapers, and books on poetry
A comfortable lounge chair and comfy throw blankets
Luggage rack, empty drawers, and hanging space
Great lighting with many moods
Apothecary jars with various pain relievers and tums
Personalized photos on display
A basket full of favorite healthy snacks and sweet treats
“I like to make sure there are extra fluffy towels, and at least three pillows per guest varying from firm to soft on the bed,” says Dane. “Some guests prefer to sleep with a fan for white noise and air circulation, so we provide one upon request.”
If you do not already know whether your guests have allergies or dietary restrictions, ask. What are your expectations regarding meals? Read our previous Journal post about how to be a good host during cocktail parties and holiday events.
“In the end, it’s all about making memories with one another,” says Dane. “Focus on giving attention rather than getting attention - and make sure your guests feel they’ve had a chance to really connect with you during the visit.”
Dane and colleague Andy at 2019’s Heading Home to Dinner fundraiser with a tablescape which was featured in House Beautiful. They were also the gracious hosts on the second night dinner party.
The farewell should be as pleasant and gracious as your welcome with your guests hoping for a return invitation. The best hosts are warm, authentic, and have a welcoming attitude. “Don’t overthink it -- just be yourself.”