Hosting a party that includes guests who smoke can be tricky. Not a smoker? Don’t want people smoking in your house? How do you handle the smoking issue without sacrificing your smoke-free environment?
As the perfect host (that you are, of course!), you readily accept that some people smoke and create a special place outside for them to do so. A so-so host would invite them, but leave them to find out where they can smoke on their own, leaving them to question how welcome they truly are.
A bad host would either not invite them, or berate them and make them feel uncomfortable to the point where they simply leave an otherwise amazing party. This would obviously be a waste, and it is completely avoidable with just a little planning ahead.
As the perfect host you will take time to select a place outside and away from any doors or windows where smoke can seep into your home. The space will have an ashtray some to place their ashes in, as well as chairs.
If you just have few guests that smoke, they will likely smoke and return to the party quickly. However, if you have a large number of smokers, they will gather amongst themselves outside. As the host you will need to check on that group once in a while; it is the proper thing to do.
If you’re having a party and rainy weather is forecast, you’re going to have to find a dry place for the smokers — maybe your covered back porch, your garage or a shed. If it is cold, you may need a fire pit along with the chairs and ashtrays. Remember, it’s about making your guests feel comfortable and looked after.
You may ask yourself, “Why do I have to accommodate smokers? I don’t smoke.” True, but they are your friends, or a friend of a spouse or another friend. Therefore, it’s up to you to be the perfect host (that we all know you are), a so-so host or a bad host. Don’t let a little smoke come between you and your friends and a wonderful night. Who knows? The space you create outside might draw more guests out than just the smokers!
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