My son-in-law surprised me with this bouquet of pretty pink flowers, which was delivered the day after he left Fox Hall for a business trip. This arrangement has moved from room to room for our entire family to enjoy. I even used them as the centerpiece for my daughter's 40th birthday party! The gift that keeps on giving, right?
After years of hosting at Fox Hall, my husband and I have had some of the most delightful houseguests. Their manners have touched my heart and remain brilliant examples for me to share with you!
Consider giving flowers as an all around wonderful hostess gift. Either send flowers in advance, during the arrival or, as my son-in-law does, the day after his departure. Even for your family members it’s a thoughtful gesture. If you have never been to the house before, a bouquet of white flowers complements any interior.
Let your hosts know if you have any allergies or special dietary needs or dislikes. Nothing is more stressful for a hostess than to find out a guest, while a meal is being served, has special dietary needs like vegetarianism, lactose intolerance, or gluten allergies. Simply call the hostess in advance of arriving and say something as simple as, "Please do not go out of your way at all, but I just want you to know I am gluten-free so I will bring my own bread or I can eat around whatever you are preparing!”
Take your makeup off before using the host’s towels or sleeping on their linens. At the end of your stay, make your bed in the morning and offer to strip and place the sheets in the pillowcases. This looks tidier when placed inside a pillowcase rather than just piled on the bed. Fold up your used towels and robes and place them on the bed or in the bathroom.
Offering to help in the kitchen while the hostess is cooking is also appreciated. If she says no, however, be respectful and go rejoin the other guests for cocktail hour or whatever is taking place. This applies to cleaning up after the meal as well.
Another nice gesture is to offer to cook a meal or take the hosts out to dinner. Also try setting the table for breakfast or filling the coffee maker for the next day, as morning comes all too quickly when you’re having a ball!
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Millennial Tip
Once you are aware of your guests dietary restrictions or food dislikes, be sure to keep a record of them in your “contact” notes or your address book for easy reference the next time they come to visit!
By popular request, below is one of Lori Jayne's custom makeup towels which have become a must-have in Palm Beach. Everybody I know adores them, so I thought I'd share it with you as well!