Party etiquette Q&A

Forks on the left, elbows off the table, cell phone stowed away and a gift in tow? There’s so much to remember when hosting or attending a party. Here, etiquette expert Lisa Mirza Grotts answers some commonly asked etiquette questions from hostesses and guests.

Hostess etiquette

Q: How should I handle unannounced guests or guests who didn’t RSVP? Graciously! If you’re throwing a cocktail party, you’re in the clear. If it’s a sit down dinner, time to
shuffle place settings to accommodate the unannounced guest.

Q: I’m hosting a cocktail party. Is it okay to ask guests to bring a bottle of wine or an appetizer to share? The word ‘host’ implies it’s your party. One way to get around it is
to host a ‘potluck’ at your home. Try offering up the main course and have the other guests bring side dishes (including wine).

Q: Is it okay to throw my own birthday bash? My friends just don’t have the same party planning panache that I have. Absolutely, especially for the decade birthdays complete with
party favors.

Q: How can I politely inform guests that their children are not welcome at my decidedly grown-up affair? Some of my friends bring their tots everywhere. If the invitation states
evening, this implies no children. If, however you are worried about a particular guest, send a follow-up email to all guests reminding everyone to book their sitters.

Q: I’m throwing a housewarming party; can I mention gift preferences on an invitation? The only gift should be the presence of your guests. They will bring along hostess gifts as a
thank you for hosting the party. It’s nice to say ‘no gifts please’ so others will not feel obligated to add to the money tree.

Q: What’s the biggest party faux pas that you’ve personally witnessed? Party crashers, and I don’t mean at the White House. Black tie, sit down dinner crashers!

Q: How can I politely remind guests that they need to turn off their cell phones before dinner, or I’ll trample their texting fingers? Pray that a phone goes off during dinner
so you can make your big speech.

You’ve done your job, ready to see what etiquette your guests should be following? Go to the next page.