Got Yourself a "Socially Inappropriate" Houseguest? Here's How to Handle It
Margaret Josephs is having none of Jennifer Aydin's manners in Oklahoma.
As The Real Housewives of New Jersey ladies continue to have fun in Oklahoma, Margaret Josephs reached her breaking point with Jennifer Aydin's manners. After Jennifer blurted out that she hates the country music that Margaret's friend Polly (their host) was playing, Margaret informed her that it's "socially inappropriate" to be invited into someone’s home and then bash their hosting abilities. Jennifer shot back with, "I don’t like the music. I’m entitled to my opinion," but later apologized.
Should you say something in the moment when you have a rude guest?
Yes, says etiquette expert Diane Gottsman. And do it right away.
"The best approach to dealing with a disrespectful house guest is to communicate your boundaries clearly. Don’t delay," Gottsman told Personal Space.
She gave some examples:
Say your guest is leaving wet towels around. Try, “I would appreciate it if you would pick up your wet towels from the bathroom floor and hang them back up on the towel bar to dry out after your shower.”
Are they sniffing around your liquor bar? Say, "The good wine is off-limits. Help yourself to anything on this side of the wine cellar."
Feeding your pet table scraps? How about, "Please don’t feed our pets table food. They’re on a special diet.”
Gottsman said that if a guest has an unreasonable request, or one you aren't willing to offer, "Let them know upfront without an excuse."
Can I use your car? Nope. Say, "I’m sorry, I can’t let you borrow my car. It’s a busy time of year and I need to run my own errands. Perhaps you could use a rideshare company or I’m happy to drive you to the rental car agency.”
Snooping around your closet? "Sorry, I don’t share my clothes.”
If your guests invite people over without your permission, say you won't stand for it. This should work: “I have no problem with you staying with us for a few days but I’m not comfortable with people I don’t know. Perhaps you can find another place to socialize. There [are] plenty of great bars in the area. Thanks for understanding.”
Hopefully they won't be back! Happy holidays!
