Treat dad to a delicious Father’s Day brunch (image via Celebrate Magazine)
Father’s Day is fast approaching, and the summer temps create a variety of possibilities in honoring your dad. For new dads, treating him to a quiet morning of uninterrupted sleep, followed by an outdoor brunch will help set the tone for a relaxing day. If the kids are grown up and out of the house, a destination celebration at the beach, or a local lake where the grand kids can run off some energy and eat loads of sticky treats with no clean up…you get the idea!
Here are a few Father’s Day Etiquette recommendations for celebrating dad in style…
Pay attention. Dads can be challenging to shop for, but if you make a point to be observant of what he talks about, or shows interest in, you’ll be a step ahead of the game. One of my girlfriend’s loves to put together a new tennis bag for her dad with a fresh set of Dunlap tennis balls, a few pairs of no-show athletic socks, and his favorite Lacoste tennis shirt. She knows he’ll feel great on the court and will appreciate the special effort she put into the gift. Short on inspiration? Visit Pinterest and find out what other people are suggesting. You will have a slew of options to choose from. Start with a few ideas from my own Father’s Day Pinterest board.
Include father-figure(s) in your life. Inclusion is essential as you pull together a festive party where your dad, husband, father-in-law, and step-dad will be invited. Most families look forward to enjoying a celebratory meal together in the company of loved ones. Reach out to your mother-in-law, siblings and significant others as you divide and conquer an easy, but delicious menu. My suggestions on navigating family dynamics surrounding the day can be found in my Father’s Day FAQs.
Add extra meaning to the occasion. I shared seven Father’s Day thoughts in this blog post, and truly believe getting children involved in the making of cards and festivities of the day will make dad’s experience even brighter. No matter the budget, he will treasure a handmade gift from the heart.
Roll with it. Nothing can dampen the mood faster than grouchy guests, short tempers and an impatient party planner – you! If there are children involved, there will no doubt be a few meltdowns. Plan for it – games, a soft place to rest, and extra change of clothes. If the burgers get charred, get ready to order pizza. If you’re still upset with your sister for hurting your feelings on Mother’s Day, bury the hatchet, at least temporarily. Make every effort to keep the day running smooth, regardless of a few hiccups and one or two bumps in the road.