The season of merriment and magic—filled with holiday baking, cookie decorating, gift exchanges, and more—has arrived! With so much to see, do, and celebrate, it’s also the perfect time to brush up on your best and brightest manners before attending festive gatherings. Here are 10 essential tips for holiday guests in 2024 to help you make a gracious impression.
How to Be a Mannerly Guest This Holiday Season
1. Your RSVP is a commitment.
Unless there is an emergency, never cancel at the last minute because you receive a better offer.
2. Arrive on time.
If the invitation says the gingerbread house contest begins at 5:30 pm, show up within a ten-minute window. But, NEVER early. Avoid parking directly in the host’s driveway – it comes across as a bit presumptuous and you also get trapped in when you want to leave.
3. Let your host know if you have a food allergy or dietary medical restriction.
But, don’t bring the holiday drama if it’s not a serious health issue.
4. Make it a point to mingle with guests you do not know.
Your host will appreciate you breaking the ice with people who may not feel as comfortable because they do not know anyone at the party.
5. If you are going through a buffet line, be mindful of your manners.
That means not taking two plates or overloading your plate. You’ll also want to avoid breaking in line for more bread or green bean casserole until everyone has gone through the line once. Use a separate plate for dessert, after you have eaten your entrée.
6. Ask your host if you can help clean up.
This gives them an opportunity to pause and take a mental picture of the holiday fun, and shows your gratitude for being included.
7. Make a toast to your host at the dessert course, thanking them for the lovely meal.
Recognize their efforts and express your gratitude for holiday blessings—sweet and Santa approved!
8. Mind your table manners.
Here are a few holiday table reminders:
- Converse with people on both sides of you
- Pace yourself with other guests
- Steer clear of controversial topics
- Don’t ask invasive questions i.e. When are you going to have a baby? Are you ever going to get married?
- Put away your cell phone
- Don’t feed the family pet under the table
9. Remember those who may be hurting this season.
For those navigating grief this holiday, they may be missing their loved one beyond measure. Keep his or her memory alive by saying their name and sharing a favorite story from year’s past. You never know how much it will mean to their loved ones.
10. Don’t forget a gift for your host.
We’ve covered this topic in the past, and it’s one of our favorites. The best gifts are items that the host can easily accept from you shortly after your arrival, set aside and enjoy later so they can get back to their hosting duties. The more time and thought you put into the gesture, the more meaningful the gift. Don’t forget the presentation; wrapping paper, clear cellophane and a ribbon will add a special touch.
For more information about working with Diane, America’s “Go To” social and professional etiquette authority, please visit The Protocol School of Texas.
See what Diane is up to by following her on Instagram and Facebook and find etiquette inspiration on her Pinterest account. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, refer to her posts on Inc. and HuffPost.
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
Instagram