{Photo of Redcraft via designer Steven Gambrel}
As the summer winds down and we juggle schedules trying to fit in one more precious weekend away don't forget and leave your house guest manners behind. 1. Host/Hostess Gift: Unless you come every weekend bring a small gift for your hosts. Candles and scents are my favorite. 2. Make Your Bed: You're not in a hotel to remember to make your bed before you leave your room for the day. 3. Be Decisive: If your hosts ask what you 'd like to eat for lunch don't just say whatever, narrowing it down to your tastes is a real help to someone hosting multiple people over the weekend. 4. Make a Meal: Especially if it's a low-key weekend with not a lot scheduled, offer to make a meal one evening. Barefoot Contessa has some of my favorite quick summer meals. 5. Don't Complain: If your host asks you if you slept well just say yes! Don't remark on a lumpy sofa or drafty room. 6. Don't Overstay: Even if your gracious hosts say stay as long as you'd like just stay for a couple of nights at most, especially if it's a first visit. 7. Say Thank You: Don't forget to follow up with a thank you note in the mail or I like to bring a couple of sets of my personal stationery and leave a note behind on the dresser or desk of the guest room.
