Good friends have invited you for a summer weekend at the beach, the lake or the country. You've been friends forever! It will be just like old times: a chance to relax, catch up, share funny stories, eat and drink, listen to music, kick back around a fire pit or on the deck. Ahhh....
But let's be honest, being a house guest isn't always a breeze. The intimate surroundings can sometimes be uncomfortable. Perhaps your spouses don't know each other well -- or other, unfamiliar guests are joining. You may not have a clue what your host/hostess has planned. How do you pack? What should you bring as a gift? Is there a way to ensure a good time?
Having enjoyed some truly memorable weekends as a guest--and endured some truly awkward ones--I've come up with a few guidelines.
Packing Smart:
Start with a color scheme. That way everything works together and you don't have to pack as much. It can consist of just two colors, or a few more. I have chosen turquoise, coral, beige and white, as an example.
Assume the weekend will be pretty casual, unless your host says otherwise. Obviously, if their home is near the water or has a pool, you will want to pack a swimsuit, cover-up, brimmed hat and sunglasses. A couple of nice T-shirts, tank tops and a chambray or Oxford-cloth button-down are always good ideas. Add at least one pair of jeans and another cool, comfortable pair of pants or shorts. For a barbecue, clam bake or casual cocktail, a pretty print maxi dress or flowey skirt usually does the trick. Don't forget a lightweight sweater in case the evening turns cool.
As for accessories, pack a beach bag (canvas or woven) or backpack and a clutch big enough to hold your wallet, phone and glasses. Take a pretty pair of flat sandals and/or a wedge sandal/espadrille, and a pair of comfortable flats (I personally love Tom's classic slip-ons because you can wear them to the beach, to ride a bike or to walk on grass). Jewelry choices are up to you. I usually bring a dangly pair of Mexican silver earrings and a woven silver bracelet, which tend to look good with most casual clothing items.
Remember that sleepwear counts. I usually pack cotton menswear-style pajamas. You certainly don't want to be walking around in any skimpy nightgowns or sleep-tees on someone else's turf. A light-weight robe is also a good idea; it's not acceptable to come in from the outdoor shower or the bath wrapped in just a towel, no matter how close you are with your hosts.
Bringing the Right Hostess Gift:
Don't tote anything large, like a croquet set or a giant platter--or too decorative, such as a tablecloth or wind chimes. You don't want your friends to stress about storage or about having to display your gift on your next visit.
Smaller, functional gifts, such as coasters, bath products, beach towels, a good bottle of wine, gourmet food items and scented candles, all make nice gifts. Cut flowers can be tricky since the hostess may have already chosen her favorites and yours may not work with her decor, but a potted plant such as a hydrangea is usually a safe bet, especially if your friend is a gardener.
Creating Good Vibes:
A playlist of music from your past shared time together is always fun. A photo album ordered from Shutterfly with old picks of you from back in the day guarantees a lively conversation (as long as there are no incriminating ones!). A personalized gift, such as a cute tote bag or cocktail napkins, with your friend's name or initials shows you care enough about your visit to plan ahead. Thoughtful gestures go a long way.
Help strategize. If your friends are athletic, ask them if there are any specific plans for tennis, yoga, kayaking, hiking, etc. before you go, and pack accordingly. If you don't want to engage in their favorite sport, you may want to mention this upfront, politely, by saying something along the lines of "I know how much you enjoy _______. Would it be okay if we just stay at the house and read the paper? Or take a little trip into town?"
Finally, etiquette counts, big time! Be sure to offer to help set the table or clear dishes, to ask if you can take out the garbage or do a run to the recycling/dump, to make the beds in the morning and to strip them before you leave. Follow up with a thank-you note--hand-written is best, but send a heartfelt email at the very least. And remember to reciprocate! Even if you don't have a weekend home, you should extend an invitation for cocktails, dinner or brunch in the next few weeks.
A weekend away gives us one of the best sources possible for fantastic friendship memories. These tips, from packing to playing to thanking, can help things go smoothly. The precious bonding moments? Up to you!
Shop Apprécier to make packing easy, and your host/hostess happy.