Dear Eric, My parents have a beautiful beach house by the ocean. I am a middle-aged woman and single mother of two who does not have to pay child support. I would like to invite families to enjoy the beach with us, but do not want the added expense of being a hostess.
Even though I have a great career and a great job, I use the summer months to save for the high oil bills in the winter and the kids’ sports throughout the year.
Even providing hot dogs and hamburgers every weekend is too expensive for me. I need help writing an invitation that politely asks people to bring their own food/drinks without seeming stingy. I’m happy to provide the ice cream! Can you help?
– All alone on the beach
Dear Beach: I think politeness and directness are closely related, so they may not be as easy to manage as you would like. But here are two options:
“We would love to serve and feed everyone, but with so many guests it’s not possible. So please bring what you and your children would like to eat and drink. Don’t worry, we have enough space in the fridge and freezer. And I’ll provide the ice cream!”
Or go the Airbnb-style logistical route. List what amenities people can expect (bedding perhaps, toilet paper, etc.) and create a “don’t forget” list that includes things like sunscreen, favorite board games, and food and drink for the weekend.
Don’t worry: you don’t sound stingy. You’re giving them a whole house. You should pay for your meals.
Read more Question to Eric And other advice columns.
Send questions to R. Eric Thomas at [email protected] or PO Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110. Follow him on Instagram and sign up for his weekly newsletter at rricthomas.com.
