‘Tis the season for holiday entertaining, but do you know your etiquette? Janette Ewen is here to help you brush up on your holiday entertaining etiquette and give you all the tips you need to navigate your way through the endless parties and dinners.
The first thing to remember is that it’s all about respect. Janette says that, “As a host or guest, it’s important to treat people the way you want to be treated.”
What to wear?
“For cocktail or more formal dressing during the holidays, add a little sparkle,” says Janette — she likes to keep it under control with subtle sparkles. Remember, don’t show too much skin – keep it tame. “If you go for a short dress, make sure it’s looser fitting and pair it with opaque tights.” Janette’s number one rule: Keep it classy.
If the dress code isn’t specified on the invitation, don’t be afraid to ask what it is.
If you’re going to a more casual dinner, Janette suggests, “A little trick I like to do is buy yourself a great little pair of flats before the holidays start, never wear them outside and tuck them in your purse. When you’re at someone’s home, just slip them on.”
Where to sit?
“Usually if it’s six or more guests, you’re going to have a little place card. Once you see your place card that’s where you’re going to sit,” says Janette.
On the other hand, if you’re the host and deciding where to seat your guests, Janette likes to plan it by alternating extroverts with introverts. She also likes to pair people up who might have something in common. Another rule from Janette is to separate co-workers and couples!
To get the conversation going, have conversation starter cards next to the place cards.
Always offer to help the host
Ask what you can do to help – even something as simple as lighting the candles. If she says no, let it go.
Tabletop décor
There are lots of ways to have fun with your tabletop décor, but most important is a low centrepiece. You don’t want your guests dodging their heads around a large item to have a conversation.
For more entertaining tips, check out our Holiday section!