Party Etiquette

Party etiquette has many different forms. You have cocktail parties, dinner parties, birthday parties etc. The list goes on and on! Each occasion calls for a different set of rules . We will discuss some basics below. As always remember that what was once old is now new and that includes your manners. The etiquette from Grandmas day has certainly changed since she was a girl, but she holds valuable info on what it is and was.

Hostess Gifts

'Tis the season for entertaining and for being entertained, and showing up at a party with a small gift of appreciation for your hostess is always good form. We suggest some inexpensive alternatives ($20 or less) to traditional hostess gifts such as wine or flowers that are sure to win big points for thoughtfulness. Now, It's Time to Pamper the Hosts and show off your etiquette skills! Tell your hostess "Thank you" by giving her a gift of entertainment: a movie package (includes tickets, popcorn, and soda), gift certificates for movie rentals, or even a favourite video (if you know what she likes). CDs are always welcome gifts; give a favourite to replace an old, scratched LP, a new release of a favourite artist, or a collection of holiday music she can play at the party.

One way to show your hostess your appreciation for the time and trouble she put into her party is to offer a gift that says, "It's time to relax!" Aromatherapy candles come in a variety of shapes and colors to fit any mood and décor. Another thoughtful gift is a basket of supplies for a relaxing bath or a home pedicure.

If you know your hostess well, and know of a hobby or interest she enjoys, offer a gift relating to that interest. Is she a jigsaw puzzle fanatic? A roll-up puzzle mat to preserve works in progress might be just the ticket. Does she love reading mysteries? The latest paperback by her favourite author, placed in a basket with some gourmet coffee or tea and a pretty mug, is guaranteed to make her day. Helpful Holiday Accents A gift to make her hostessing duties a little easier would surely be welcome etiquette. Whimsical beverage markers that guests can clip to their glasses are festive and practical. A pretty holiday platter for serving cookies or appetizers is also sure to please. A piece of holiday décor also makes a thoughtful gift. An ornament or knick- knack that relates to your hostess's holiday traditions, a picture frame, a snow globe, or a small figurine will serve as reminders of a wonderful party for years to come. Gifts of Food Are Always Appreciated! Gifts of food, especially homemade treats, are a special way to say thanks. Any hostess is sure to enjoy homemade fudge or candy in a pretty tin, or a basket of cookies, bread, or muffins accompanied by a selection of coffees or teas.

For the hostess who has a taste for the unusual,etiquette says do something unusual.Gather a sampling of exotic mustards or sauces for her to try. Or offer a variation on the traditional fruit basket; give a sampling of unusual selections such as pomegranates, starfruit, cherimoyas, guavas, pomelos, or passion fruit.

Fixings for an easy post-party/post-holiday meal are another surefire hit. Dried soup or chili mix, or dried pasta and bottled sauce, packaged with a loaf of homemade bread will be much appreciated on a busy evening.