Holiday Etiquette: 7 Tips on the Not-to-Do List

I remember so clearly a dinner party I hosted where a newer friend showed up two hours late with two uninvited guests in tow. To make matters worse, they didn’t bring anything to contribute to the party. Needless to say, I never invited her to another party. I doubt she had any bad intentions, but she had no idea of ​​basic etiquette. She probably would have benefited from reading a list of what not to do at holiday gatherings and dinner parties. Please, you’re welcome.

Holiday Etiquette: What NOT to Do

1. Don’t bring uninvited guests. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s worth mentioning because it’s a common mistake people make. If you are invited to a dinner party, make sure you respect the host’s guest list and only bring the people he/she has specifically invited.

2. Don’t go to a dinner party empty-handed. It’s always a good idea to bring something to contribute, whether it’s a bottle of wine, dessert or a small gift. This shows appreciation for the host’s efforts and makes the party more fun for everyone.

3. Don’t show up more than 30 minutes late for a sit-down dinner. While it’s okay to be a little late, try to arrive within 15–30 minutes of the stated start time. This gives the host time to prepare everything and ensures that dinner doesn’t start too late.

4. Don’t bring up very sensitive or personal topics during a group dinner. It’s important to respect others’ boundaries and keep the conversation light and enjoyable for everyone. Avoid bringing up controversial topics and asking inappropriate questions.

5. Don’t ask about someone’s relationship status or when they are going to have children. These types of questions can be intrusive and uncomfortable for some people. Instead, focus on getting to know people on a more general level and finding common interests.

6. Don’t overstay your welcome. It’s important to be kind and thank your host for their hospitality, but it’s also important to know when it’s time to go. Don’t linger too long and overstay your welcome.

7. Don’t dominate the conversation. One way to avoid dominating the conversation is to actively listen to others and ask open-ended questions that encourage them to share more about themselves. Not only does this make others feel heard and valued, but it also helps create a more balanced and engaging conversation for everyone involved.

Did I miss something? Feel free to forward this to Aunt Mary, who may need a refresher course in etiquette.