Table Manners For Gorgeous Christmas Parties

Submitted by Loring A. Windblad on December 24, 2009

It’s Christmas time again and you may find yourself planning and attending parties both at home and at your workplace. Parties are an essential part of the Christmas spirit and it is important to plan ahead to avoid any glitches. In addition, it is important not to overlook certain basic rules in the middle of a festive mood. For instance, table manners are an integral component of any social event and you must remember to pay attention to them while planning your own party or while attending others’ parties. Do not lose sight of table manners and social etiquette while attending a Christmas party this season.

Firstly, ensure that you attend parties when you are invited, especially if it’s a party organized at work. It is rude to make excuses and to miss a social event planned at the workplace. This is because parties and get-togethers organized at the workplace are one of the few settings where informal interaction is possible across the hierarchy.

Remember to always be on time. It is generally considered rude and inappropriate to show up at a party after it is already half done.

Dress appropriately, preferably in formals, as it may be considered shabby to turn up at a Christmas party wearing jeans.

Do not dress provocatively or wear loud, excessive make-up, as it does not suit the mood of a Christmas party. If there is a dress code or theme, try to join in with the fun and be a part of the theme.

While at the table, ensure that you do not drink too much.

It is impolite to get drunk at a Christmas party, whether at home or at the office. It can become a potentially embarrassing situation for you, the other guests, and your hosts. Ensure that you consume a moderate amount of alcohol and politely decline drinks if you feel you have had too much already. While eating, ensure that you chew with your mouth closed and as silently as possible.

Do not belch at the table, this is considered to be very inappropriate. Don’t talk with food in your mouth, and remind yourself to thank your host for the meal. Pay attention to the effort that has been put into the meal and the party and be sure to compliment your host on his/her party effort. Ensure that you are sociable at the party. Don’t monopolize conversation at the table, but be sure to participate and encourage others to have their say.