Inviting friends or relatives to a celebration can be simple and pleasant if all the details are thought out in advance. From proper planning to guest comfort — it is important to consider the nuances that will help make the meeting comfortable for all participants.
Expert: Olga Svezhakova, Etiquette Specialist
It seems the easiest thing to do is invite friends over for a small banquet: buy provisions, tidy up, play pleasant music or an old movie. For informal gatherings with long-time friends, colleagues, or classmates, there are usually no difficulties. One can do without table setting and unnecessary courtesies.
However, when it comes to an important event — a housewarming, anniversary, engagement — and older relatives or acquaintances are invited, it is important to consider the nuances of etiquette.
Notify in Advance
Guests should be invited at least a week before the scheduled date. This will give them time to decide on their participation and allow the hosts to prepare, counting on an exact number of attendees.
Everything for Guests' Comfort
It is necessary to provide a place for the clothing and shoes of all attendees. In the bathroom, it is best to place hygiene items and hand towels.
Modern etiquette rules do not suggest asking guests to change their shoes. If a change of shoes is required, it is better to ask guests to bring them in advance, and in case of absence — to provide the necessary accessories carefully.
Program and Entertainment
It is important to think through the entertainment part: what topics of conversation will interest the guests, what games to suggest, what music to dance to. Guests participate in the proposed program and support the atmosphere.
Time to Leave
Every event comes to an end sooner or later. If guests start to gather their things, others understand that it is time to leave. In case the meeting has dragged on, one can gently conclude it, for example, by referring to neighbors or offering assistance with calling a taxi.
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