PREPAREDNESS MAKES DOING EASY
The great majority of the American housewives do their own work.
A bit of hourly help now and then is the extent of help in thousands of representative homes.
To be able to prepare a perfect meal, have the house in order, the children happy and spotless, the table attractively set, and to serve the meal oneself at the same time retaining one’s poise, occupying the hostess’ place at the table, directing the conversation and creating a feeling of true hospitality is, perhaps, the greatest test of one’s generalship.
These suggestions will help make the accomplishments a pleasure.
The “Day Before”
1. Plan menu and do all buying excepting fresh salad materials.
2. Prepare as much as possible of the company meal.
3. Put the house in order.
4. See that all silver, china, glassware and linen is in perfect condition.
The “Day Of”
1. Set the children at an interesting game early in the day where they will be free to romp. They will then want a rest at your busy time.
2. Think what a joy these guests are to be and how happy you want to make everyone.
3. Do necessary finishing touches, arranging decorations, and rest ten minutes, enjoying your anticipated pleasure before beginning the actual preparation of the meal.
4. Manage a rest period of twenty minutes before dressing for dinner, and call to mind a few amusing incidents to relate.
The ideal hostess is never tired or worried and has a fund of interesting conversation.