Hospitality Pt.3: "One of the family" style

The "One of the Family" style of hospitality is informal and laid back. This style is usually associated with family dinners,  backyard BBQ's, picnics, reunions and buffet style meals. It's truly the art of making one feel at home. For some families this is the only style they know and if you are invited to their home for dinner there are a few things you should know.

• Don't expect to get waited on. If you sense the family style is present, get up and help yourself.
• Ask if you can bring a dish to pass or just bring one.
• A hostess gift may not be expected and may even make the hostess feel uncomfortable excepting.
• Try to jump in and help the hostess with any preparation for the meal.
• Always help with clean up.
• Always show your appreciation with a big "thank you"!

The objective of this style is the feeling that you are one of the family. The worst thing you can do is to expect to be treated like a "guest".....yeah, been there, done that..... Believe me, you don't want to make my mistakes!  The key is to expect nothing from others, give freely to all, and you will never be disappointed!:-)