Party Etiquette
Best list of etiquette thoughts for parties.
TOP TEN (or 12):
TELL IF ATTENDING - Always RSVP for parties, events, or networking socials. Things come up, let the host(s) know if you cannot make it! Host(s) plan around RSVPs to ensure food and especially cocktails are aplenty.
ASK – Ask if you can bring anything but Do NOT ask “who else will be there” before you RSVP.
SNACK – Snack before you go to the party.
BE ON TIME - Do NOT arrive before the start time of the event (unless host(s) are aware). They may put you to work.
DRESS THE PART - My mother always taught me, it is always better to be over dressed than underdressed for a party.
GIFTS - Host or hostess gifts are nice and appreciated. Appropriate gifts:
Wine or champagne. Champagne is a nice celebratory and fresh gift.
Candles make a great gift. Make sure the candles are soy wax.
Dish towels are much appreciated.
Olive oil or cooking accessories make a nice gift.
NO-NO - Never take fresh cut flowers as a host or hostess gift. Although wonderful and surely fragrant, cut flowers are disruption to find a vase and place for the flowers.
PLUS ONE – Do not take a plus one if you did not RSVP with a plus one.
GOSSIP – Do not gossip while at the party!
COCKTAIL – Do not overindulge with festive cocktails. Hold cocktail in left hand so you can shake or even brief hug with right hand.
DANCE – No dirty dancing
THANK YOU - Thank you notes:
Thank the host(s) during “good-byes”
Thank the host(s) with a phone call or note.
Other thank yous - Always write “thank you” notes for gifts, appointments, or business transactions.
Rule #1 - Thank you notes should be handwritten and from the heart.
Rule #2 - If you receive a “thank you” gift, a thank you note is not necessary.
