Polite Ways to Ask Guests to Bring Something to a Party
Persuading your guests to bring something to a party can be an art, especially when you're trying to ensure the event is enjoyed by all. Here are some effective and considerate methods to ask your guests to bring an item to the party, accompanied by helpful examples.
1. Personalized Requests:
It's often beneficial to target someone already known for something spectacular. A well-crafted personalized request can go a long way.
Example: You know that recipe for your baked beans, I just can’t make them as good. Would you mind making a batch for me? We'd love to serve them to our guests. Aunt Eddie, I love your baked beans. Could you please bring them to the picnic? Tell me what you need from the market and I’ll gladly buy it ahead of time for you. You know Auntie Siddle, you could uh, you could teach me how to make those beans, pass the bean torch… Uncle Frank, you know how you're always complaining about Darryl’s bland pasta salad. How about you pick up about a gallon of that stuff you love from the market on your way. I’ll make sure there’s an extra turkey leg just for you.
For a group setting:
Example:
We'd love to host everyone for the Superbowl this year, but things are a little tight. So, if everyone could just bring something to pass around, it would be very helpful. Carol, we'd love some of that crazy hot salsa of yours. We'll provide the chips.
2. Indirect Requests:
Indicating that the item is needed can be subtle yet effective. This is particularly useful when dealing with friends and relatives of invited guests.
Example:
If it's a friend or relative of an invited guest, you might say: "Bring your sister!" or "Bring your friend Minerva!" While it would be more polite to ask the sisters or Minerva directly, in an informal situation, this approach can work well.
3. Detailed Instructions:
Providing clear details about the item and the event makes it easier for guests to understand what is needed.
Example:
If it's specifically food or drink, you can organize a potluck event. Say, "Bring a dish to pass or your favorite beverage to share with the rest." This clearly indicates the types of contributions you're looking for.
4. Specific Item Requests:
If you want a specific item to be brought, such as a board game, a costume, or a music player, asking directly can be effective.
Example:
Could you bring that board game we played last Christmas—the one with the meeples? Would you be willing to dress up like Dracula and welcome the guests as they arrive? Do you still have that old Ed Wood box collection?
5. Polite Phrasing:
A polite request frames the item as a favor and gives the guest the option to decline if they are unable to. It makes the request more considerate and gives the person a chance to respond at their own convenience.
Example 1:
Could you consider bringing your —— for the party? It would be greatly appreciated.
Example 2:
Would you mind bringing —— to the —— next month? It would make our day so much better.
Key Takeaway:
The key to making a successful request is to clearly articulate what you need while allowing the person to decide if they can accommodate the request. A friendly, appreciative tone goes a long way in getting people to help out. Whether you're asking for a dish, a game, or something else, the goal is to make sure the party is enjoyable for everyone involved.