How do I handle hosting events for smokers if I am allergic to cigarette smoke?

  • Context: Personal 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Gina
  • Start date Start date
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The thread discusses personal experiences and strategies related to hosting events in homes where cigarette smoke may be present, particularly for those with allergies or sensitivities to smoke. Participants share their thoughts on how to approach potential hosts about smoking and the challenges they face in such situations.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, shared an experience of hosting a show in a home where the host smoked, highlighting the need for future precautions.
  • Another participant suggests asking potential hosts directly about smoking during host coaching, noting that most people would likely understand the concern for health.
  • Several users mention that it might be helpful to communicate allergies upfront and request no smoking during the event, while acknowledging the possibility of negative reactions from some hosts.
  • One participant notes that they have observed hosts altering their behavior, such as smoking outside, after being informed of the allergy.
  • Another participant expresses that while smoke bothers them, they also have allergies to pets, sharing a concern about how to handle such situations in the future.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best approach to take with potential hosts regarding smoking, with some participants advocating for direct communication while others express concerns about potential backlash or losing shows.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and strategies based on their individual sensitivities to smoke and other allergens, reflecting a variety of approaches to managing these situations.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants who are navigating similar challenges with allergies or sensitivities while hosting events may find the shared experiences and strategies relevant.

G
Gina
Messages
3
About a week ago I hosted a show that was for a friend of one of my past hosts. I did not know her at all or anything about her. I am allergic to cigarette smoke, and found out that this lady did so upon arriving at her house for the show! I need some advice on how to handle this in the future. How do I go about finding out if this person smokes, and what do I do if the potential host does? Thanks for any and all suggestions!:chef:
 
Personally, I would just ask up front. This is your health we are talking about and most people would understand, especially if you ask nicely.
 
I would imagine that most people would understand if, during your host coaching, you asked if they smoke. If so, you could explain that you're allergic and ask if it would be possible for there to be no smoking during the show. Be prepared, though, to get a snarky reply or two or even lose the occasional show. People are people, after all.
 
raebates said:
I would imagine that most people would understand if, during your host coaching, you asked if they smoke. If so, you could explain that you're allergic and ask if it would be possible for there to be no smoking during the show. Be prepared, though, to get a snarky reply or two or even lose the occasional show. People are people, after all.
Click to expand...


I agree with Rae. Perhaps you could even say during the host coaching that you are allergic to cigarette smoke and see if that will be a problem at their house. Luckily there are fewer and fewer people who smoke now, especially in houses.
 
I have a feeling she would be amenable to that ... I know a lot of smokers who take to smoking outside rather than endanger their loved ones who have asthsma.

It's the same reason I won't do an outdoor show in the month of June.
 
Gina: Congrats on doing your first post---You'll love this site & all the knowledge/help you can gain for your biz.
 
Gina,

Here is the little blurb that is on the bottom of a sheet I give to the Host with their guest list. This is in "fine" print. For the most part, I've forget all about it because it's rare that I run into a situation (as someone stated above) where people are smoking in the home. However, I do think people read it because there have been times where they seem to be altering their behavior (going outside to smoke) when I’m at the house.

P.S. I am highly allergic to cigarette smoke. I am sorry for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your attention to this matter. If you or your guests must smoke while I am in your home, please let me know so I can make other arrangements.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #8
My host didn't smoke at all during her show, but it was the permeation of the smoke that was already there that affected me. Thanks so much for the help!Gina
 
Gina said:
My host didn't smoke at all during her show, but it was the permeation of the smoke that was already there that affected me. Thanks so much for the help!

Gina
Click to expand...

And it follows you home. Even my laptop smelled like smoke. :yuck:
 
chefjeanine said:
Gina,

Here is the little blurb that is on the bottom of a sheet I give to the Host with their guest list. This is in "fine" print. For the most part, I've forget all about it because it's rare that I run into a situation (as someone stated above) where people are smoking in the home. However, I do think people read it because there have been times where they seem to be altering their behavior (going outside to smoke) when I’m at the house.

P.S. I am highly allergic to cigarette smoke. I am sorry for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your attention to this matter. If you or your guests must smoke while I am in your home, please let me know so I can make other arrangements.
Click to expand...

I think this is great. I am very allergic to cigarette smoke as well. Although, it's never been a problem at a show--so far.
 
While smoke bothers me (I have asthma), I am highly allergic to cats and can only stand in a house with a cat for around 10 minutes. I never thought this to be a problem until my last host had a cat. Luckily they had just moved into the house and the cat was afraid to come out of the bathroom still. Not sure how I will handle that next time!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I host a Pampered Chef event if I'm allergic to cigarette smoke?

If you're allergic to cigarette smoke, consider hosting your event in a smoke-free environment. You can choose locations such as community centers, parks, or even your own home if it's smoke-free. Communicate your needs to potential hosts and guests to ensure a comfortable atmosphere for everyone.

What should I do if a guest smokes during the event?

If a guest smokes during the event, politely remind them that the event is smoke-free. You can set clear expectations in your invitations or at the beginning of the event. If necessary, designate a specific area outside for smoking to minimize exposure.

Can I ask my host to ensure a smoke-free environment?

Absolutely! It's perfectly reasonable to ask your host to ensure a smoke-free environment. Discuss your allergy with them beforehand, and they can help communicate this to guests. Most people will understand and respect your health concerns.

What alternatives can I suggest for hosting events?

Suggesting alternatives such as virtual events can be a great option. This way, you can engage with guests without the risk of smoke exposure. Additionally, consider outdoor venues where smoking can be more easily controlled or avoided.

How can I promote a smoke-free event to my guests?

To promote a smoke-free event, include a note in your invitations or announcements clearly stating that the event will be smoke-free due to allergies. You can also emphasize the benefits of a smoke-free environment, such as a healthier atmosphere and a more enjoyable experience for all attendees.

You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar Pampered Chef Threads

How Do Handle a Consultant Complaint?
  • evk1972
    • General Pampered Chef Chat
Replies
5
Views
2K
raebates
How Do You Handle Customer Returns?
  • chezshelly
    • General Pampered Chef Chat
Replies
4
Views
2K
3RingChef
How Do I Handle Other Consultants Advertising at My Party?
  • Liquid Sky
    • General Pampered Chef Chat
Replies
9
Views
2K
raebates
Other Ds Rep Asking for Customer Lists?
  • evk1972
    • General Pampered Chef Chat
Replies
21
Views
2K
ChefBeckyD
Rant Other Ds Reps Asking for Your Customer Lists?
  • evk1972
    • General Pampered Chef Chat
Replies
2
Views
917
Admin Greg
No Interest in Hosting Show: How Rude!
  • ChefJWarren
    • General Pampered Chef Chat
2
Replies
38
Views
3K
legacypc46
Ack, I Have Been Asked to Do a Presentation at Spring Launch!
  • ChefCKHall
    • General Pampered Chef Chat
Replies
19
Views
2K
BlueMoon
Did You Know Hosting a Pampered Chef Fundraiser Can Make a Big Difference?
  • mmilus
    • General Pampered Chef Chat
Replies
5
Views
2K
cincychef
How Should I Handle a Large Catalog Order from a Socially Distant Acquaintance?
  • Humble Beginnings
    • General Pampered Chef Chat
Replies
6
Views
1K
Teresa Lynn
Who Gets My Friends After I Sign On?
  • ms_twana
    • General Pampered Chef Chat
Replies
11
Views
2K
ms_twana
Back
Top