New Year's Holiday Party Etiquette Tips

Just because you are going to a New Year's holiday party does not mean you have to leave your good manners at home. Many people tend to forget about proper etiquette during the holidays, especially when they go to a party where alcohol is served. Here are some etiquette tips and reminders for guests as well as hosts.

Hosts

Unless your New Year's gathering is very small and consists of immediate family, it's best to keep pets in a remote location during the celebration. This is for the safety of the pet as well as the comfort of guests. No one wants to see dogs licking themselves or begging for table scraps while they are trying to eat.

Pick music that is appropriate for each transition in mood as the good times progress. You don't want loud rock music blaring in the background while people are trying to talk, but upbeat music is perfect for dancing. So have a broad selection of songs available and keep an eye out for when it's time to switch genres.

If you are inviting couples with children, be sure to provide a safe zone for kids to play and run around without breaking something. Child proof your home before people arrive. This will help everyone feel more comfortable and relaxed.

You want your home to smell nice, but don't overdo it with the air freshener. Some people are allergic to certain scents. It is a good idea to ask each attendee if they are allergic to any food or smells when you sent the invitation.

Use table centerpieces creatively but sensibly. Don't have elaborate tall floral centerpieces if guests will be seated at tables the majority of the time.

Be cautious of having too many open flamed candles burning if children will be in attendance.

Make an effort to introduce each guest to one another so that no one feels isolated.

Guests

Do not bring someone with you without letting the host know ahead of time.

Make a genuine attempt to talk to everyone. Part of your role as a guest is to help the host have a successful event.

Think before you speak. Pick your topics of conversation with care so as not to cause unnecessary embarrassment or friction. If the person you are talking is going through a messy divorce and you know some juicy gossip about their husband or wife, do not bring it up. Generally, it's a good idea to stay away from the topics of sex, politics and religion.

It is considered good manners to take a gift to the host. Take time when making your gift selection and put thought into it. If you bring flowers, put them in a vase before hand.

Send a thank you note afterward to thank the host for their time and trouble. Mention specific incidents about the event to let them know you truly took notice of their effort.

If you realize you're to be extremely late, call the host and let them know so they can make necessary adjustments.

If you have any type of allergies such as certain food, pets, or odors, let the host know as soon as you confirm your attendance at the party.

Compliment the host on the food, atmosphere, or décor. Even if you don't like certain things, find something to compliment them on to show your appreciation.

If children are invited to the party and you bring yours, be sure to keep them properly supervised.

Unless your host smokes, and everyone else in attendance smokes, do not light up. Do not even ask people if they mind if you smoke. Just be polite and take your tobacco and head outside. Try to stay a good distance away from the door you go out of as well in case non-smokers have to use the same exit.

Everyone

It's proper etiquette to turn your cell phone on private or silent mode. Unless it's an emergency, do not answer a phone call during the middle of a conversation. If you do take a call, go to a secluded location.

Do not overindulge in alcohol to the point of being obnoxiously drunk. Do not drive home if you have been drinking. Ask someone to drive you, call a cab, or stay put.

Any food that is passed out on a tray should be picked up with a napkin and placed in your mouth or on a plate.

Keep drinks and food in your left hand so your right hand will be free for shaking hands while meeting or greeting.

Don't be a double-dipper! If chips and dips are served, do not dip the chip and then take a bite and go back in for another dip with the same chip. This is unsanitary and very rude. Get a plate and spoon out a personal portion of dip for your own use.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Don't forget to mind your manners.