Island Vibes Magazine

Holiday Party Etiquette

Posted on 06. Dec, 2009 by admin in Business, Style

By Janelle Julien

‘Tis the holiday party season, a time for schmoozing and boozing at office parties, family gatherings, and after-hours soirees. Does the thought of attending a holiday party make you panic or does it make you giddy with excitement? Whether your social calendar is packed with multiple functions or just one, be sure to know what behavior and attire is appropriate.

Before you go, check this list:

Attendance
Don’t forget to RSVP and say “yes,” even if you want to say “no.” Even if you’re there merely out of obligation, don’t act that way. While there, act like a host and be interested, pay attention, smile, and make eye contact. Be open to the experience and make a great impression. Remember your manners, because others will not forget if you forgot.

How to Dress
Take the stress out of what to wear for holiday parties with some advance preparation. The most important thing to consider when planning your outfit is who will be there. Who will be making silent judgments about your party attire? Will it be your boss, in-laws, or co-workers? Consider these factors before leaving the house and find out what others are wearing. In general, follow these simple rules:

• Keep it tasteful
• Don’t mistake “festive attire” for “costume party”

Host/Hostess Gifts
If you’re going to a party as someone else’s plus one, bring a small gift as a gesture of gratitude. Keep your gift in line with the tone of the party. Here are some classy, affordable gift ideas:

1) Nice bottle of wine (i.e., chardonnay or pinot noir are good bets. Be sure your host drinks alcohol, though.)
2) Lightly scented candle set
3) Something that could be shared at the party (i.e., chocolates, teas, cookies)
4) Picture frame
5) Gourmet gift basket

Your Plus-One
Choose your holiday party guest (or date) with care. Remember, your guest is an extension of yourself. Make sure they will represent you in the most positive manner. Bring someone along who you trust and will feel comfortable in the situation. No matter who’s at the party, don’t ditch your guest. It’s your responsibility to make introductions.

Food and Drink
Both eating and drinking should be done in moderation—whether at your friend’s holiday party or at company-hosted ones. Don’t linger in front of the open bar or hover over the food. You don’t want to do or say anything that you may regret.

Conversation
The point of being at the party is to schmooze. Show genuine interest in the conversations around you. If you’re at a holiday office party, try to avoid talking shop and find common interests with your co-workers. Keep conversations light and chatty, and don’t gossip!
Don’t assume everyone celebrates Christmas; wishing people a happy holiday will suffice.
Even if you are a plus-one, talk to strangers. Chat with people you don’t know to expand your contacts, learn new things, and make new friends. Discuss holiday plans, the party, food, sports, hobbies, or current events. Remember not to interrupt, compete, interrogate, or brag, as these are conversation killers.

How Long to Stay / When to Leave
Always exit graciously. Whether the party is a late evening soiree, a simple dinner, or cocktail event, stay long enough to make a sincere appearance. Shake hands (or hug) the hosts, thank them for inviting you (and your guest), and let them know you had a great time. As a follow up, send thank-you notes to the hosts.

Remember to say goodbye to any people you met (and collect contact information). However, don’t overstay your welcome. Leave by the time on the invitation. You don’t want to be part of the clean-up crew.

As long as you remember these tips, you will be able to make a grand entrance at any holiday party with ease –and have fun while doing it!

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