It's the people in our lives that make the holidays an extra special time of year. Whether you are invited to a corporate party or spending the evening with a group of friends, make a great impression by revealing your own personal, classy style. Here's how:
At the start of most events, it's important to arrive on time. If you are invited to a sit-down dinner, it's even better to show up a few minutes early as opposed to late.
As you'll be immediately immersed in conversation after arriving at the home, restaurant or office, the No. 1 rule is don't begin conversations with complaints.
"Traffic was horrible, can't stand the weather, had an argument with my wife, hate coming to things like this" -- all examples of sucking the life out of what is supposed to be a fun event.
Instead, compliment the host/hostess on the décor, or giving accurate directions to the location or what a great idea it was to have a holiday party.
Conversations should be kept light. Stay clear of excessively discussing office politics, and don't gossip. One conversation-starter is to begin with a question directed to the person with whom you are speaking about something going on in their lives. Keep in mind that if you think of a joke but are not quite sure if it's appropriate, DON'T SAY IT!
You may want to drink a glass or two of alcohol, but don't over indulge. The last thing you want is to say something you'll regret or, worse, something you won't remember. If the drinks are free, pretend you're paying for each one. If you are drinking, make sure you have someone lined up as a designated driver.
When the time comes for the meal, don't sit until the host sits unless you're instructed to do so. Once seated, unfold your napkin and lay it neatly on your lap. The napkin should remain on your lap (unless you are using it) until the end of the meal when you are leaving the table. If you need to excuse yourself during the meal, leave your napkin on your chair as a signal to the server you will return. That way, no one is forced to look at a dirty table napkin.
If another guest asks you to pass the salt, always pass the salt and pepper together. Proper etiquette treats salt and pepper as a happily married couple.
If the meal is buffet or platter-served appetizers, don't walk around with multiple hors d'oeuvres. Never double-dip or return buffet food and discard napkins, cups and toothpicks properly.
At the end of the meal, place your utensils together diagonally with the blade of the knife facing inward from upper left to lower right (11 to 5 on a clock face) on your plate. Avoid pushing your plate away and saying, "I'm stuffed, can't eat another bite." Instead, consider saying "That was delicious!"
Don't overstay your welcome. As the evening winds down, remember to thank those who co-ordinated the party. Then, follow up the next day with a written thank-you to the host/hostess, even if it was a corporate event.
To those of you brave enough to host festivities this year, plan well and party even better. As Barbara Hall once said, "That's the secret of entertaining. You make your guests feel welcome and at home. If you do that honestly, the rest takes care of itself."
Happy holidays!
