The May two-four weekend is here, which means it’s time to grab a case of cold ones, load up the SUV and head out to that little (or not-so-little) oasis on the lake. Unless, of course, you’re one of the many Canadians who doesn’t own a summer home. If you’re not keen on sweltering alone in the city, it’s time to turn on the charm. Here are some tips on how to score the coveted cottage invite.
Be around and available
It’s hard to land an invite if you don’t put in much face time with potential hosts. It’s a good idea to hang around your cottage-owning amigos on a regular basis. “Getting a May 24 invite pretty much sets the bar for the entire summer,” says Dan Levy, TV personality and cottage-country vet. But don’t jabber on about your jam-packed schedule. Being overly booked implies you have better things to do, and your prospective hosts will look elsewhere.
But don’t be desperate
“Cottagers can smell desperation,” Mr. Levy says, so while it’s okay to express enthusiasm, it’s also important to assess the situation. If everyone is getting the “come on up” except you, it’s time to re-evaluate your friendship. (And maybe your breath.)
Make the May 24 investment
Because it’s the first weekend of cottage season, there’s likely a lot of work to be done. Obviously you’d rather spend your time cruising on the Whaler, but think of opening chores as a way to bank brownie points. “All that heavy lifting can be a lot of work, so help is really appreciated,” Cottage Life editor Penny Caldwell says. In other words, if you help install that dock on the bay, chances are you’ll be sittin’ on it all summer long.
Having a car doesn’t hurt – especially this summer
While cottage owners generally have their own wheels, recent gas prices are sure to make that trip more annoying than ever. Offering to drive is always a nice gesture, and if your hosts take you up on it, at least you get to play DJ.
Woo with food
If you want to make an impression, avoid convenience store standbys. “You want to do better than chips and salsa,” says Mr. Levy, who suggests baked goods from gourmet shops. (Yes, it costs a more, but you’ll get a good return on the investment.) You may also want to bring ingredients to cook a meal, just be sure to let your hosts know in advance. “Find out how much fridge space there is,” Ms. Caldwell says. “If it’s limited, don’t bring the giant watermelon or the dozen ears of corn.”
Avoid an unwanted entourage
Whether it’s a pet, your new boyfriend or your kids, it’s important to find out exactly who the invite applies to. As a rule, it’s best to leave Rover in the city, at least for the first visit. “There’s a good chance your dog is going to get lost, eat something or pee inside,” Mr. Levy warns. Find out whether it’s a family affair or adults only (never assume). And as for that charmless blowhard you’ve been seeing, remember that you will be judged as a team, and his Andrew Dice Clay shtick could have a negative effect on your future guest desirability rating.
Be the guest you’d want to have
Be on the lookout for small ways in which you can contribute to the overall success of the weekend. Clean up the breakfast dishes, take the kids on an outdoor excursion to give the other adults some leisure time or offer to drive into town to replenish the supplies. Above all, be positive and make it clear you’re having a blast. “Cottages can be rustic, and it’s not for everyone,” Ms. Caldwell says. “Often hosts feel stressed about whether or not their guests are enjoying themselves.”
*And don’t do this: Up-trade your alcohol. If you brought Smirnoff, don’t spend the weekend slugging your host’s Grey Goose.
Special to The Globe and Mail
