How To Be The Perfect House Guest (and Get Invited Back To The Weekend Home)!

"We are in the thick of summer and while Greenwich is a wonderful place to enjoy it, you may be day dreaming of the soft sands of the Hamptons, or the cool salty air of Nantucket. If you don’t have a weekend cottage, chances are you have a friend who does, and if you are lucky enough to get an invite to a summer destination, make sure you make the most of it (and earn yourself a return visit) by being the perfect guest.

Here’s how.

Don’t come empty handed!

Your friends have opened up their private weekend enclave to you, so show your appreciation and bring a gift. Wine is generally always a bonus (and something you can enjoy too) as are flowers, but why not get a little more creative? There are so many fabulous shops in Greenwich that are full of unique gifts, so bring something special that your host couldn’t easily find on her own.

Where to shop for the Perfect Present?

on Greenwich Avenue is chock full of wonderful gifts, from picture frames and deliciously scented candles, to gorgeous throw pillows and throws, and beautiful serving trays and coffee table books. All are hand-picked by the award-winning interior designer and author of "Classic Greenwich Style," Cindy Rinfret (designer to Greenwich celebrities like Tommy Hilfiger).

If you’re looking for something a little more casual and beachy, you should head over to on Sound Beach Ave in Old Greenwich, which is filled with an eclectic mix of art that’s perfect for a summer cottage (think wood plank beach signs) and unique antique collectibles that will charm your host.

If the pressure of finding the perfect home accessory is too stressful for you, go the tried and true route with flowers. and in downtown Greenwich are both excellent resources for gorgeous arrangements. Just make sure you don't have to travel too far in warm weather or your flowers might look a little sad. It's also a nice touch to send flowers after a weekend away or a wonderful dinner party. Pair that with a thank you note and your friend will really be charmed.

If you have some time and can plan in advance, you can’t go wrong with the classic LL Bean boat bag. Bring your guest one that is monogrammed just for them and fill it with a beach towel, margarita mix and limes and cocktail shaker, as well as a couple beach reads, and you’ll be treated like gold all weekend! (on the avenue) has great glassware that will make your goodie bag pop. Splurge on a funky beach towel and then top it off with some good reads from near the bottom of the avenue. Hot books now are "Bossy Pants" by SNL alum and 30 rock creator, Tina Fey (for the lady of the house) and Keith Richard's "Life" (for the rock star-wannabe guy). Your only problem may be that you'll have a hard time letting go of this gift!

Now that you’ve made your great first impression, keep up the good behavior. Follow the cues of your hosts, if they’re early to rise don’t lounge in bed until noon. Always offer to lend a hand making dinner or cleaning up, but if the host would rather be the only cook in the kitchen, don’t be a nag, and sit back and enjoy the hospitality. This should go without saying, but keep tidy and pick up after yourself (and kids) and promptly make the bed in the morning.

As for the rest, simply enjoy you friend’s company and have a great time!