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GOOD HOUSEKEEPING: TIPS ON HOW TO BE AN OLD SCHOOL HOSTESS

February 11, 2023

1 mins read

Feminist Housewife

I recently came across this 1953 Good Housekeeping Article called “New Years Resolutions of a Good Hostess”. I really got a kick out of some these retro tips. My-oh-my, how the times have changed! Here are a few of my favorites:

1953 Edition of Good Housekeeping

“New Years Resolution of a Good Hostess”

1.I'll look my prettiest when the doorbell rings by stopping to change an hour before guest arrive and doing last minute chores in a perky apron; suitable for greeting the earliest guests if necessary.

2.I'll designate a place for my guests to put their wraps, even if its on the bed in my bedroom. (In rainy weather I will cover the bed with a clear plastic table cloth.)

3.I'll use imagination in my place settings and be daring when mixing china and place mats.

4.I'll consider serving coffee in the living room.

5.I wont apologize for the food I serve or the way my house looks.

6.I'll never ever stuff my guests or ask them more than once if they'd like seconds.

7.I'll consider the dishwashing situation and decide whether:

a) to use paper plates- (there are wonderful plastic coated ones) and/or place mats;

b) to have someone come in and help me;

c) to rinse and stack between courses and then wash the next morning;

d) to do a quick but complete wash between courses;

e) to have my guests help after dinner; or

f) to have the ladies join me in the kitchen for a second
cup of coffee while I wash dishes and let them drain (or complete the drying and
putting away process)

8.I'll have plenty of ashtrays and plenty of coasters on hand, I'll even have a cloth in a handy drawer in the living room in case a guest spills something. (once the spillage is wiped up, we'll both forget it)

9.I will remember that others smoke even if I do not and make sure to have extra cigarettes on hand.

10.When I do the inviting, I'll let my guests know how long the party is intended to last. Once they start for the door, I'll let them continue leaving.


11.I'll have a wonderful time at my own party.

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