These mistakes are hosting no-nos.
Good Southern hosts have their checklist of things to accomplish before the first guest arrives.
They prepare the food, vacuum the floors, and wipe off the counters.
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Youll be hard-pressed to find them unprepared.
If anything, theyre overprepared.
As hosts, we need a reverse to-do list, if you will.
Credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Produced: Page Mullins
With the help of national etiquette expert Diane Gottsman weve answered the call.
Heres your ultimate list of things to avoid before welcoming guests.
Diane Gottsman is an etiquette expert fromThe Protocol School of Texas.
Credit:Hector Manuel Sanchez, Styling: Carolyn Chen
We all get distracted.
Then we start to tear a drawer apart.
Cleaning The Floors Too Late
Save timefor all cleaning, but especially the floors.
The last thing you want is a guest slipping on a freshly mopped or waxed floor.
Save it for almost last but not too close to when guests will arrive.
They will appreciate having a spot to set down their cocktails.
You don’t want your appetizers or sides to grow stale or congeal.
(Gottsmans golden tool for keeping hot food warm for the whole party is aslow cooker.)
The rule applies to drinks too.
No one likes warm beer or starting the party with a bucket of melted ice.
Being Unprepared For Gifts
You dont want to have to search for a vase, says Gottsman.
This is vital in situations where the allergy is particularly severe.
Not Stocking Bathrooms
Don’t set your guests up for failure.
Leaving an almost empty roll of toilet paper with no replacement in sight is certain to cause issues.
ensure your bathrooms are stocked with at least one obvious backup roll.
The same goes for umbrellas.
There has to be a designated place that you have prepared in advance, Gottsman says firmly.
If guests arent allowed to touch it, it probably shouldnt be out.
Everything has to be usable, says Gottsman.
Turning The Heat Too High
Have your temperature controls set to something reasonable long before guests arrive.
Waiting To Set The Mood With Lighting
Create ambience with your lighting long before guests arrive.
