It’s not a secret that the holidays can be a stressful time of year. Hosting houseguests for the holidays can be very stressful. Spending time with family comes at a premium these days
so keep these 5 rules in mind when hosting houseguests to make your holidays merry and bright!
Have Clear Expectations
Rule # 1: When planning with visitors, establish a “check-out” date and basic house rules.
It’s true we want guests to feel right at home but not so comfortable they never want to leave. I am a planner (almost to a fault) and work best with clear expectations. The holidays are no exception! No one likes a perpetual houseguest, except maybe the houseguest! It’s hard to have the conversation about guests leaving before they even arrive. But you’ll be glad you did instead of dropping passive-aggressive hints when you’re ready for the unsuspecting house guest to leave.
Don’t spend the holidays in house guest
purgatory. If they don’t give you a departure date, give them one instead.
Let guests know ahead of time the rules of your house. Whether it’s a no-shoes-in-the-house, don’t-let-the-dogs-on-the-furniture policy, be sure to communicate your expectations. It’s your house. Your rules. A local hotel is a place for guests who don’t respect your wishes.
Meal Planning
Rule # 2: If you’re not stressing about what to cook, guests aren’t stressing about what to eat.
I like food, especially holiday food. I fancy myself to be a great cook, but also know I tend to cook what my family likes to eat. If you know your guests well, you may know their favorite meal or dessert. But if you don’t, asking them about their preferences can make meals more enjoyable for everyone. Respecting food allergies goes without saying (I hope) but also be aware if your guests are vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose intolerant, or diabetic. Simple meals for all to enjoy is the way to go. No one is expecting a six-course dinner! And never turn down an offer for someone to make a dish that they would like to see on the dinner table.
Having a guest’s favorite coffee creamer, soda, or bottle of wine is a simple way of welcoming your guest without making a fuss. It can be quite the production to cook for a house full of people every day, all with varying palates. Give yourself a break! No reasonable guest would expect you to cook every meal. Plan a pizza night or dinner out at a restaurant. We love taking out-of-town guests to our favorite local spots for fresh seafood. Enjoy an evening out. If your guests want to pick up the tab at dinner to show appreciation for your hospitality, let them!
Thinking Ahead
Rule # 3: Be the host you always wanted as a guest.
Being a guest in someone else’s home can feel uncomfortable or burdensome. We bring in our big suitcases and toiletry bags and set up camp. Even the best packer is going to forget something, and asking the host for an “extra” of anything can be embarrassing. Having a small, decorative basket in the bathroom with a spare razor, shaving cream, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, or contact lens solution is a nice reprieve for forgetful guests.
I’m not suggesting a turn-down service with chocolates on the pillow.
But dressing the guest bed with fresh linens is a must. Have additional blankets and pillows available, just in case. Offer bottled water and a few grab-and-go snacks such as apples, nuts, or granola bars on the nightstand so guests can snack between meals without you having to prepare one. Keep it simple for them and your messy linen closets and pantry a secret for a little while longer.
And the best host will provide the WiFi password without being asked.
Between late sleepers and early risers, everyone has a different morning routine. But no matter your guests’ preference, you don’t have to change yours. Before bed, set the coffee to brew automatically at a reasonable hour. Have fresh cut-up fruit or yogurt available in the fridge and some fresh pastries or cereals on the counter. Let guests know to help themselves to breakfast so everyone (including you) can enjoy a leisurely morning and no one is relying on you to start their day.
Let Others Pitch In
Rule # 4: Any guest that is welcome in my home is also welcome to take out my trash!
No guest likes to be waited on hand and foot (unless you’re my mother-in-law). Most want to feel helpful and contribute, even in small ways. As host, don’t be afraid to receive help from an offering guest.
They can help with meal prep, dry dishes, or even (gasp!) take out the trash.
If the grandparents want to take the kids out for ice cream or to the movies, hand them the car keys and get ready to enjoy a little downtime while they’re gone. You deserve it!
No house guest wants to be a burden, and no host wants to feel like a servant.
Keep Your Routine
Rule # 5: Don’t change your plans for guests.
Whether it’s a school play or sports practice, tell them what you have going on. Offer an open invitation to join you but also make them feel comfortable to do their own thing.
When you live in an area as beautiful as ours, give your guests an idea of what there is to do and your blessing to go and do it. As host, you are not required to occupy your guests at all times.
Everyone can use a break from too much togetherness. If you need an excuse for a little alone time, take the dogs for a walk, slip into the tub for a little relaxation, or head to bed early to read a good book. It takes the pressure off you to entertain house guests day and night.
The Best Host is a Gracious Host
Whenever we have company, I like to make their time in our home feel as comfortable for them as I do for myself. No one wants to feel like a stranger in their own home.
A gracious host wants every house guest to feel welcome! Adding personal touches makes a guest feel at ease in your home, and planning ahead helps lighten your load when family arrives in town.
