The Do’s and Don’ts of Holiday Party Etiquette

Most of the time we behave pretty well at parties, but holiday parties seem to bring out the worst in us.  After a long year, we tend to forget our manners and have way too much of this, way too little of that, or go way too far (hey, we’re guilty too!).  We all need a little reminder once in awhile, so before you venture out this year read up on these holiday party etiquette tips from your friends at Flutter FETTI®:

– – – – – – – – – – – –

DO RSVP.  If someone invites you to a holiday party, make sure you let them know you’re coming.  Planning any party is stressful, but even more so at this time of the year.  Let your host know you’re attending and give them peace of mind.

DON’T Dress Inappropriately.  Some invites tell you how to dress and essentially decide your outfit for you.  If no dress code is defined, you can imply it’s casual or classy depending on the crowd.  That means no ugly Christmas sweaters, no super low-cut shirts or high skirts, and no wacky elf costumes.

– – – – – – – – – – – –

DO Bring A Gift.  Never show up to a party empty-handed.  When invited to a holiday party, the polite thing to do is bring a small gift for the host.  We’re not talking about a brand new phone, but something sweet like flowers, chocolate, wine or holiday-spiced beer.

DON’T Bring An Uninvited Friend.  Showing up without a gift is one thing, but showing up with an uninvited guest is another thing.  If your newest boyfriend or attractive single co-worker was not invited to the party, you have to respect your host and leave them out.

– – – – – – – – – – – –

DO Try The Food.  Whether catered or not, your host has made a huge effort to make you happy.  Try their food, let them know how delicious it is, and stroke their ego a bit.  Plus, if you really like something, you may be offered the leftovers at the end of the night.

DON’T Overindulge On Drinks.  That’s right, we said it.  We know it’s a party and that punch is hard to resist, but we also know how much rum went in there too.  Take it slow, know your limit, and try not to end up praying on the porcelain bowl (especially not in someone else’s house).

– – – – – – – – – – – –

DO Participate In The Party.  If the host asks you to join in a game of fun or even a silly line dance, the appropriate response is “yes”.  Unless you have a legitimate reason to stay back, participating in their games maintains the merry mood of the party.

DON’T Cross The Line.  Participation in a party game doesn’t mean act like an idiot.  You can have fun with the game, but don’t make fun of others, hit on the singles ladies, or throw things around the house.  The same goes for conversation topics where you should avoid controversial subjects.  And if your host hands you one of our “Hand-Flick” Confetti Launchers – you shouldn’t shoot it too early, in someone’s face, or at that expensive glass vase.   It’s like they say, “think before you shoot”.

– – – – – – – – – – – –

DO Show Up On Time.  If the party starts at 7 pm, don’t show up at 9 pm.  It’s okay to be fashionably late by 15-20 minutes, but there is a limit to lateness.  If you have a conflict that same night, inform your host ahead of time so they’re aware as to why you’re arriving late or leaving early.

DON’T Overstay Your Welcome.  We understand if you’re having a blast, but at some point the exhausted host will need to clean up and go to bed.  Take a hint and follow the rest of the crowd out the door when they leave.

– – – – – – – – – – – –

DO contact one of our confettiologists and we’ll help you add the “WOW!” factor to any holiday party.   Because when it comes to using Flutter FETTI®, DON’T forget or you may regret!