Hello Darlings, There’s only one thing more precious than our time and that’s who we spend it with. With Friday evening dinners and Sunday morning brunches, comes a moment when being a great guest is as important as being an exceptional host. While we all have our family traditions and every family has its quirks, we’ve all faced those awkward moments when biting your tongue is the best option. Being a good guest is knowing how to put your best qualities on display. From knowing when to back away from the wrong conversation to what kind of flowers to bring; all acts not just kind gestures but also signs of respect. It's a matter of being a good guest!

As Emily Post famously said, “Manners are a sensitive awareness of the feelings of others. If you have that awareness, you have good manners, no matter what fork you use.” So what does it take to make a good guest, here’s what Emily Post said. It's fairly simple but a gentle reminder during the times when technology rules our social life.

Arrive on time – anytime between 5 and 15 minutes after the start time is okay. Never show up early.

Turn off your cell phone – if you need to use your phone, leave the room.

Be complimentary - be gracious and sincere in giving compliments to the host and guests. No gushing.

All things in moderation – do not overindulge whether it’s the appetizers or the wine.

Keep clear of kitchen – unless invite to join, respect the same and stay away from the kitchen.

Leave with the group – never be the last to stay or first to leave.

Be thankful – never forget to thank your host.

I AM WEARING: BCBGMAXAZRIA Kitra Dress // Stuart Weitzman Highland Boots // 3.1 Phillip Lim Pashli Satchel — *I AM WEARING:* *BCBGMAXAZRIA* *Kitra Dress //* *Stuart Weitzman* *Highland Boots //* *3.1 Phillip Lim* *Pashli Satchel*

Coming from a background where family gatherings turn into six hour affairs with a numerous courses, being a good guest and a host is instilled from a very young age. As a little girl my grandma or my mom always had me helping set a table because being a great hostess is a direct reflection of the household. As for attending dinners it is always customary to bring wine for the host, flowers for the hostess and treats for kids. Until this day, whenever we have guests over I get chocolates :) It is within these formalities that traditions are born that can make an ordinary dinner into a special occasion.

While my family celebrates Orthodox Easter in May, I always spend the long weekend with family and friends. We either gather for a family dinner or I make plans with my girls for some much needed down time. This Sunday, my friends and I got together for a brunch where we had the pleasure of dressing up and enjoying a few mimosas and laughs. Within a mix of so many cultures it is great to form traditions on your own as well. For the occasion I was too excited to wear my new BCBGMAXAZRIA Kitra dress which I received as a gift and my favorite pair of Stuart Weitzman highland boots. While it would have been much more fun if the weather was slightly more spring like, nonetheless it was lots fun to get dolled up for an afternoon of ladies time.

With Love...

Marta Tryshak