The Etiquette of Borrowing

In Hamlet, Polonius said, “Neither a borrower or a lender be.” But is that really sound advice? I think asking to borrow something from a friend is perfectly fine, but with proper consideration and a few limits.

Have you ever asked someone to borrow something and then immediately felt bad about it? Like maybe it was too much to ask. I have! And, so lately, I have been thinking about the ideal parameters for asking to borrow something from a friend. As always, when considering topics like this, I always ask myself what is the most gracious and thoughtful thing to do.

Here are my top 10 things to consider when borrowing:

1. Only ask your closest friends.

Let’s just say this: If you have to send someone a Facebook message because you don’t have their phone number or email address, then you are not close enough to borrow things from them! If they aren’t in your tight knit circle of friends, then I wouldn’t ask. Now, if they offer on their own accord, that’s different and okay.

2. Ask with plenty of notice.

As the saying goes, a lack of planning on your part does not constitute an emergency on my part. The item might be in storage, might be dirty, etc. So, if possible, ask a few weeks in advance, especially if it’s something bigger like folding tables and chairs. If the lender agrees, it’s nice to remind them the day before you are to pick it up in case they forgot.

If you ask a friend to borrow something, and she is vague or never gets back to you, take that as a subtle hint that she doesn’t want to lend it and don’t press her about it.

3. Pick up the item at the lender’s convenience. 

And certainly don’t ask the lender to bring it to you. They are doing you a favor by lending it so don’t ask another one of them!

4. Return it in exactly the same condition as they lent it to you. (Preferably, return it in better condition!)

If you borrow a dress, have it dry cleaned. If you borrow tables for a party, even if they are dirty when you receive them, make sure they are as clean as a whistle when you return them. Scrub, polish, Magic Eraser, whatever you have to do. Leave no room for disappointment in the lender’s mind!

5. Do not ask to borrow sentimental or heirloom clothing or items. 

Christening gowns, antique Civil War-ear silver goblets, you get the idea. Unless someone offers out of the deepest sincerity, do not put people on the spot by asking to borrow their irreplaceable treasures.

6. Return promptly with a thank you note. 

Don’t just drop it on they porch without letting them know. Email and ask when it is a good time to return it.

And it’s not necessary to do this, but sometimes I like to leave a little treat or surprise with the returned item. A seasonal bread from a local bakery or a votive candle maybe. Just something to say you appreciate their kindness.

7. If an item is damaged while in your possession, repair or replace immediately. 

If something gets damaged on your watch, you are responsible. It’s just the risk you take when you borrow someone else’s belongings. Be honest and make everything right. You will feel so much better if you do!

8. If someone says no to your request, respect and move on.

Do not hold grudges. It’s their prerogative because the item belongs to them. Be an example by being gracious and generous with your belongings.

9. Always offer to reciprocate in some way. 

If you borrow something from a friend, ask if they have any events coming up in which they need anything of yours. If you borrow someone’s truck, offer to power wash their patio or something else super nice. (I feel sorry for people with trucks in ‘the city.” They are always getting asked to haul stuff!). Another example: a friend and I share the same fine china pattern and we have a standing agreement that we will gladly share if one of us ever needs more than 12 dinner plates for a holiday or dinner party.

It’s not that you have to pay someone back for borrowing. But the lender should know that you intend for this to be a two way street and you are willing to loan them or help them with anything in the future.

10. Be Creative with Borrowing

One friend geniously bought two long kids tables and chairs and started asking for $10 donations for wear and tear every time she lent them out. It paid for the items in no time! And people were so happy to pay the fee.

Another idea: When my circle of friends were in the playgroup mode (and it seemed someone was having a birthday party every weekend!), we would take turns borrowing each other’s party supplies. One friend has tables and chairs, another friend had tablecloths, I had drink dispenser and cake stands, etc. We were all happy to share and help each other out.

 

Finally, if you are ever in doubt about asking a friend to lend out her things, just rent or buy yourself. I can’t tell you how many times rented tables and chairs and tablecloths for both adults and children’s parties. Honestly, it is not that expensive to rent 10 plastic children’s chairs and one long table (and save on delivery fees by picking them up yourself). Nor does it cost that much to rent a UHaul or Home Depot truck for an afternoon. There’s something to be said for not having to worry about damaging other people’s things!

Happy Entertaining!

 

 

 

 

 

Party Essentials

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 Thank You Cards

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Photo: Pottery Barn TIered Stand