Being a gracious guest, whether as a party guest or weekend visitor, always goes back to the cornerstone of etiquette: making your host feel appreciated and respected. Yes, you of course want to have lovely table manners and bring a hostess gift, however the most important part of etiquette centers on the simple notion of kindness and making those around you feel comfortable. With a little planning ahead to give you the confidence that you need, you too can shine as your best self the next time you receive an invitation. Here are some simple ways to be the gracious guest who will always be invited back!

• Always bring a hostess gift. I know you all have heard the time-honored adage, “Never Show Up Empty Handed” and it’s so very true! A hostess gift shows gratitude to your host and will be much appreciated. It takes significant effort to host even the simplest of gatherings, and a gift is such a lovely way to say thank you. When shopping for a hostess gift, choose something thoughtful that you know will delight the recipient. Remember also that the gift needs to align with the occasion. For instance, while you might bring a fragrant candle or bouquet of fresh flowers to your friend’s house for dinner, you will want to choose something more substantial if you are staying at someone’s home for a longer visit. Such as a picture frame, wonderful coffee table book, or pretty decorative object.
• Arrive on time. If you are attending a party, you need to arrive at the start of the party or within 15 minutes of the start. If you will be staying at someone’s home for the weekend or for an extended amount of time, be sure to confirm with the host what time is best to arrive (and a departure date/time) so it is convenient for their schedule.
• Don’t over-stay your welcome! For house guests, three days is enough. For a dinner party, after the dishes have been done, it’s time to leave and let your hosts enjoy some quiet time!
• Confirm dietary needs or food allergies in advance. For those with food allergies, be sure to notify your host of your allergies so they can prepare a meal that you can enjoy as well.
• Offer to help. Many hands make light work, and in the setting of an intimate gathering or overnight stay at a close friend or relative’s home, always offer to help your host. That might be with cooking or serving a meal, washing the dishes, or even clearing the table. If they decline your offer, then respect their wishes.
• Be grateful. Saying thank you, complimenting the meal, noticing the effort they put into the event – all these gestures are thoughtful and gracious and will go a long way with your host.
• Be engaging. Ask your host thoughtful questions, brush up on current events, and have some interesting topics to discuss so you can sing for your supper as they say! You want to be an engaging and delightful guest who will add to the conversation.
• Be tidy. If you are staying the weekend or for an extended stay with someone, leave the space as you found it. For instance, make the bed every day, hang up your towels, and keep your personal belongings neatly organized.
• Write a thank you note. Thank you notes are the perfect way to show your appreciation to your host after an event, dinner party or visit. Here is everything you need to know to write a fabulous thank you note.