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Etiquette and Company

How does one behave when company comes to call? As with most life situations, there are some basic things that the courteous host can do to make his guests feel at home.

1. Clean up
Tidying your house will help make your guests' visit more pleasant. Even if the house isn't spotless, making sure there isn't food all over the kitchen floor and that excess clutter is cleared out is a good idea. It will help your guests feel more comfortable and you won't feel like you have to apologize for the mess.

2. Prepare food ahead of time
If your company is coming during mealtime, prepare as much as you can before they arrive. This will leave you free to socialize and actually enjoy your company instead of sitting them down and then rushing around to get dinner ready. If there isn't a lot you can do beforehand, if your guests offer to help and you really do need an extra hand, it's ok to accept the offer.

Even if your guests are not coming for a meal, it is polite to have some small snacks available like crackers and cheese, or cookies.

3. Welcoming your guests
When your company arrives, invite them in and offer to take their coats if they are wearing them. If you have children you can assign this as their job and they can remove the coats to another room or closet. Then you can invite your guests to come in and sit down; you might provide some appetizers before the meal and offer them something to drink. If you aren't sure about whether or not you will have enough to talk about, you can always plan ahead to have a few games out to play before or after dinner if the conversation lags.

4. The meal
Always serve your guests first! If you are serving buffet style, let the
company go first. Pass dishes to the right and offer it to the person next to you before taking some yourself. Keep an eye on everyone's food and drink levels and offer to replenish them if you notice they are getting low on something. And of course, remember not to put your elbows on the table and don't reach over people for a dish you want. Ask them to please pass it to you.

5. Don't rush
Truly polite hosts and hostesses will not try to hurry their guests out
the door. After the meal, invite them to come back to the living room or sitting area and stay awhile. You can serve dessert at the table or in the sitting area. If you have it, offer coffee or tea with dessert. Always serve the dessert on new plates; if serving at the table, clear away the dinner dishes before bringing out the dessert. Again, this would be a good time to play a game or two if nobody feels like chatting. If it is really getting late and your guests still show no signs of intending to leave, you can make a delicate remark like, "Wow, I can't believe it's already ten o'clock!"

6. Saying goodbye
Make sure your guests have everything and are not forgetting any of their belongings, including coats. Thank them for coming and spending the evening (afternoon, morning, etc.) with you. If it is dark out, turn on your outdoor lights so they can see their way to their car. It is polite to walk out with your guests but not always necessary if it is very cold, snowy, etc. In those cases, stand at your door to wave goodbye and wait till they drive away to shut the door.

Happy hosting!