The Perfect Holiday Party Guest

​Party season is here, and it’s time to brush up on your holiday party etiquette. Here are a few tips to be the perfect holiday party guest.

​RSVP
When you’re invited to a party, and they ask for an RSVP, they would like to know if you will be attending. This helps the host plan for the food, seating, and other things involved when planning a party. Always respond before the due date listed on the invite. I try to make a habit of RSVPing right away so I don’t forget.
 
If you have any dietary restrictions, this would be the time to let the host know. Here’s an example: “I’m allergic to shellfish. Can I bring a dish I can eat to share with the other guests?”
 
Bringing Food or Drinks
Depending on the type and formality of the party, you may want to ask if you can bring anything. Offering to bring an appetizer, side dish, wine, or dessert is always a nice option.
 
Please do not show up with food that the host did not request. It may be a nice gesture, but it has the potential to inconvenience the host by having to find room for it on the table. Plus, they may have the menu perfectly planned, and adding another dish may not fit into the timing of the meal.
 
If you bring wine, don’t expect the host to serve it at the party. They may have planned a special wine list to accompany the meal.
 
Bringing a Gift
I don’t like to show up empty-handed when I go to a party at someone’s home. It’s a nice gesture to bring a small gift for the host or hostess. It doesn’t have to be elaborate. Here are a few of my go-to favorites:
 
Gourmet Chocolates: Most people rarely buy gourmet chocolates for themselves. A gift of chocolates is a nice treat for the host to enjoy after the party.
 
Wine or a bottle of their favorite spirit: This is an excellent gift if you know they drink alcohol. Don’t expect them to serve it at the party. When you hand it to them, let them know it’s something they can enjoy later.
 
Sparkling Wine Stopper: This is one of my favorite gifts to give. I love this because it keeps the beverage bubbly for several days after opening.
 
Candle Snuffer: Pair this fun gift with a cute box of matches and tie it up in a bow.
 
Tea Towels or Napkins: These are special gifts if you know their color scheme and decorating style.
 
Something made by a local artisan in your community: A candle, cooking oil, or honey from a local beekeeper are unique gifts that also help support a local business.
 
Specialty spices: This would be a welcome gift for someone who loves to cook.
 
Imported or specialty cheese: A gift of cheese with a special cheese knife is a nice touch. Again, this is something for them to enjoy at a later time.

Flowers: A word about flowers - If you bring flowers, make sure they are in a container. This prevents the host from having to look for a container in the middle of greeting their guests.
 
Be a Good Guest
Being a good guest means being on time. Arrive within 15 minutes of the designated start time of the party. If it’s a sit-down dinner party and you realize you are going to be late, I suggest calling the host to let them know. Avoid arriving early for a party. The host may be doing some last minute party prep or may not even be dressed yet!
 
The perfect party guest is someone who enjoys the company of the other guests. What I mean is mingle. Don’t sit in the corner and keep to yourself. Visit with the other guests. If you don’t know someone, introduce yourself. Here’s a great conversation starter: “How do you know the host?”
 
Depending on the type of party, you can offer to help the host. A simple: “Is there something I can help you with?” will give the host an opportunity to delegate a task if needed.
 
Don’t Overstay Your Welcome
As the evening winds down, take cues from the host. Has the dessert and coffee been served and eaten? Has the music been turned down or off? Has the host started clearing their plates?

Depending on the formality of the party, you can offer to help clean up. If the host declines your offer, leave it as is. Don’t circumvent their wishes and start clearing the table.

Also, make sure to thank the host before you leave. You don't want to be that guest who sneaks out without expressing gratitude. Even it's a casual party, search out the host before leaving.
 
After the Party
You can send them a quick text or give them a call the next day telling them how much you enjoyed the party. I also suggest sending a handwritten thank you note. It takes a little more effort, but it shows how much you appreciate the host and the work that went into putting on the party.
 
I promise you will be invited back if you follow these simple steps!