Step Your Host/ess Game Up

Just like the definition of a true gentleman or lady is timeless, so too is the definition of a good host/ess. With Pride coming up, you might have out-of-town friends hittin’ you up to see if they can crash at your place for a few days. Before you give an enthusiastic (or possibly reluctant and uneasy) “yes” and dust off the air mattress, know that your hosting techniques could make it your friend’s first and last time staying with you. Gather ’round, churrins, it’s time to hip yourself to the host game.

Setting a Good Foundation

Before launching into our lesson, know that every tip herein is intended to remove any discomfort your guest/friend might feel while staying with you. Even if you’ve known this individual for years, we all have our routines and ways of doing things in the comfort of our homes, and it can sometimes be a bit jarring not to go through those same motions. Being a gracious host is about making sure everyone can relax and creating a clear orientation so that you and your visitor are both on the same page of the guestbook. Now, onward!

Wash Up and Cook Up

Once you welcome your guest into your humble abode (you did straighten up a bit, right?), ask if s/he would like to wash up or eat first. Depending on how long the trip was, your visitor may want to “wash the road off” or fuel up on grub. Both options take care of immediate needs and allow them to start …

Settling In

Show your guest where s/he will be staying and give her or him time to get settled or wash up. Some people like to have a few moments to decompress after traveling and others are ready to be social. Let your guest decide which is preferred.

Create a Plan Together

The next step in being a good host or hostess is setting the course for the visit. Here is where you and your guest decide what you’ll do during the days ahead as well as how long your guest will be staying. This isn’t to seem as if you’re ready for your guest to get the hell out before even unpacking, but to add a bit of structure to the visit. You might be a bit uncomfortable bringing this topic up, but it’s better than thinking your guest is staying three days when s/he planned on enjoying your hospitality for five.

Be Aware of Allergies

If you have pets, be sure to let your visitor know well ahead of time in case alternate arrangements need to be made. Even if your guest doesn’t have allergies, it’s still good to wash the sheets and towel s/he will be using and vacuum your place.

Make Them Feel at Home

If you’ll be in and out while your guest is visiting, provide them with a spare house key and a few recommendations for nearby coffeehouses, transportation options, shopping, and eating. If you won’t arrive at your place until after your guest, give directions to your home and have everything set up so s/he can wash up, eat, and be entertained until you arrive.

Above all else, shower your guests with some good ol’ Southern hospitality. Let them leave feeling as if they should pay you for such fantastic accommodations. Just be sure you don’t send a bill with your email or text.