Holiday cheer is at an all time high. With that being said, if you are entertaining guest this season, let’s find a way to entertain without as much stress. The art and gift of hospitality isn’t for everyone so let’s talk about a key factors you might want to be mindful.
Gift of Hospitality
If you have the gift of hospitality, you will notice that you have excitement and cheer when hosting. Be sure to be to your guests what you would want for yourself. Make sure that their basic needs are met. If its for the holidays do some extra touches like make a welcome basket. Add items that are generic like toothpaste, toothbrush, sensitive skin wash, etc. This says I want you here and welcome your presence. If you aren’t with the gift of hospitality be clear on that too. I have had to tell family that although I could host them for a dinner or luncheon that I couldn’t host them for a weekend. Be honest Going through with hosting plans and it’s not in you will come off mean to your guests. It’s best to not overdo what’s not in you to give.
Don’t Plan Every Minute
Have an ideal of what you want to accomplish but also add in some down time. Also allow your guest to find things that they want to do as well. When guests come I tend to type of activities and suggestions for them and include it in the welcome package. Your guests can pick and choose the activities that best suit their lifestyle. Adding restful moments won’t allow them to visit without feeling that they had your presence instead of focusing on being on the go. Everyone deserves some down time.
Have Fun with your Guests
Sometimes the holiday stress and hosting is a lot of work. So make sure to have fun. You don’t want to look back and remember the stress alone. Also find ways to outsource. If you can hire a cleaning company to come in do so. That extra help can have give you time preparing in other ways. If you can cater a meal or maybe pick up catering do that. Several companies and chains have packages that when you break down grocery shopping makes more sense and the food is already made. Find ways to save money when hosting. Its costly hosting families. So maybe do things like a cook off where the guest can cook items along with the host can participate.
Help with Guests
No matter if its one person or several families, find ways to entertain in a way that makes your guest welcomed. Also be sure that you don’t over plan. Down time is a gift too. Outsource when you can you don’t have to do it all. There’s nothing wrong with asking and receiving help. Don’t find yourself saying “I got it!” Allow others to take some of the burden of doing it all and you don’t have to. Be able to allow space and time in between guest too. I know of families who are having several over and having them overlap reconsider that option.
Key Points with Guests
Have some fun this holiday season. If you are hosting overnight guests remember the key points we talked about today. Don’t over do it. Have fun. Be considerate to your guests but also remember it’s your space as well. If you are simply hosting a dinner consider help. Have it catered. Get help with making meals, or having potluck. Also be mindful that you don’t have to make everyone happy. Treat all of your guests in the same love that you want to be received.
I hope this holiday is everything and more you could want for you any any guests that you are entertaining. Continue to have a great holiday.
