The Square Life

We’ve come a long way since Emily Post wrote about etiquette in 1922. We are no longer worried about what constitutes “Best Society,” or how to properly introduce a lady to a gentleman. (You would never dare introduce the gentleman to the woman- that would be degrading to him). However, there are still common courtesies that we should employ when throwing, or attending a party. Like not placing a glass down on a wood surface, or taking small bites of food and chewing quickly so you can participate in conversation. Here are a few more musts for party participants.

The R.S.V.P. - respondez, s’il vous plait
Put simply, (and in English): Respond, please. They are asking you to please let them know if you are coming. It will help the host prepare food, place settings, or any number of other things that would need an exact head count.
The Host/Hostess Gift
Let your host know you’re thankful for the dinner, the entertainment, the cheese pate, or whatever else you were able to enjoy at the soiree. You just arrived and don’t know what the best part will be, but they invited you! That should be enough. The best way to do that is to bring a small gift. The surest way to stress out your host is by bringing vase-less flowers or unprepared food. Make sure it is effortless for them. And don’t feel like you have to stick to something related to the party. Get creative and bring something special just for them.

Mingling
If you are the host, make sure that you are paying equal attention to all of your guests. You invited them, so make them glad they came. Introduce people to each other, make sure nobody is standing alone, and keep the conversation light and entertaining. Make yourself available to your guests for any questions they may have, or any introductions they may seek.

Have fun!
A party is a time to meet new people, and enjoy the company of those you know. Emily Post did say that “there is no reason why you should be bored when you could be otherwise.” That is one piece of advice we can still follow.