TROPICANA MAGAZINE Jan-Feb 2020 #128 The Love Issue

Open house season is well underway
and that means being as prepared
as possible if you are hosting one.
However, sometimes a few points might
be overlooked. The food and decor
might be top-notch but it would do well
to show how you have thought of your guests with some tips
from hospitality expert, YM Raja Ferin Raja Azman, making
the event more memorable for all.
With more than 21 years as a hospitality expert both at
home and abroad, Raja Ferin has extensive experience in
entertaining high-profile VIPs of various nationalities and
understands the nuances of hosting a varied profile of guests.
According to Raja Ferin, here are some basic “Do’s” you
should practice as a host:-
1. Plan your invitation accordingly for each group of guests, setting the
time accordingly for each group. This is to ensure quality time with each
of your guests while avoiding leaving some guests alone as you entertain
others.
2. Plan your menu appropriately especially if expecting guests of other
religious denominations. Separate non-halal and/or beef dishes to another
table or section and indicate this to your guests so they are confident and
will enjoy the menu prepared willingly and not by obligation.
3. You will receive many guests on this day including your relatives. Be
sure to make your friends comfortable by introducing them to your family
and start common small talk. If your guests look comfortable, this will
give you the opportunity to leave them in your family's good hands for a
moment while you greet your other guests.
Meanwhile, Raja Ferin also reminds hosts of some of the
“Don’ts”:
1. While sweeping or throwing trash on Chinese New Year day is
considered bad luck in Chinese tradition, it is, of course, also considered
rude to be doing this while your guests are around. You should be spending
time entertaining your guests instead of making sure the house is clean.
2. Avoid sensitive topics in a conversation with your guests especially on
religion or politics.
3. Understandably, the host usually will be tired from the preparation and
entertaining but there should be no cat naps during the day while your
guests are still around.
These are just a few important points for this occasion,
but it’s the little things that make or break an event. Practicing
the best hosting practices ensure it’s a fun day for both host
and guests.
83 JANUARY/FRBRUARY 2020 | TM