Why do we stress when we have people over to our homes? For me, it is definitely PRIDE and you know what they say about pride. Having guests over can strike fear in the most experienced of hostesses. Let me teach you what I have learned over the past 30 years, here are my tried and true 7 “Stress Less” Hospitality Tips.
My hospitality record is not perfect and it shouldn’t be. I have had a few fails (like the time I served raw steak and then served raw chicken a few months later) and some success too. When approaching hospitality let’s keep this in mind…progress not perfection. I truly believe that people feel more comfortable when the house is not completely clean, it looks like people actually live in the home. The food does not need to be gourmet or even perfectly cooked for your friends, neighbors, and family to feel welcomed.
7 “Stress Less” Hospitality Tips
FOCUS
Understand that hospitality is not about you. This frees you up to focus on others and not worry so much about appearances. Love your neighbor as yourself.
LISTS
Start making a menu and then a grocery list. Make a family chore list. Divide and conquer is my motto and it cuts back on the overwhelm. Make as many lists as you feel you need to keep you organized and stress less.
MAKE AHEAD
Simplify your life by making your food ahead of time and freezing it. This is such a lifesaver and will bring you peace knowing that you are prepared even for people who just “drop by” unexpectedly. My favorite cookbook to use for guests is The Ultimate Southern Living Cookbook. (My copy is stained and has pages falling out.) I’ve never had a bad recipe from any Southern Living Cookbook!
WELCOME
Greet people at the door with a smile and actually say “welcome”.
THINK
Are you hosting a dinner or overnight guests? Who are these people? What are their likes, diets, interests, schedules, needs, dislikes? How can you make them feel at home? As a person with dietary issues (Celiac Disease) when someone takes the time to ask me about my dietary needs I feel loved and accepted. OK, I also feel guilty about putting people out and causing them more trouble and work but I’m working on that.
ASK FOR HELP
Hosting a family holiday this year? Instead of killing yourself, why not ask family and friends to help with the food? Have a potluck or assign dishes for people to make and bring. Get your kids involved. It may not be perfect but they can be such a blessing in helping you prepare for the company.
BE REALISTIC
Simple is always better than over-the-top. Slow down and enjoy the process of preparing. Smile and get excited. Pray for the people who you will be showing hospitality too. Ask the kids to help or send them outside to play if that is easier for you. Please be gentle with yourself!
Sign Me Up!
YOUR TURN…
What is your “stress-less” hospitality tip?
Blessings,
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