We’ve all heard the term ‘host with the most’, but what does it take to be ‘the best of guests?’ I have some great tips to ensure you’re the perfect guest and are welcomed at any sophisticated soiree.

1. RSVP before the due date. A good host will send out invitations well in advance, leaving you plenty of time to respond. So return the favour and reply promptly. It’s tardy to have the host chase your reply.
2. Ask what you can do to contribute to the evening. A bottle of spirits or a plate of food is a welcome gesture, as is a small token of appreciation for your host, such as a box of sweets or a bouquet of flowers. It needn’t be extravagant to make an impression.
3. Be fashionably late. It’s courteous, not impolite, to arrive 10–15 minutes after the designated start time, as this will allow your host a few extra moments to finalise last-minute preparations. But if you’ll be any later than 30 minutes, be sure to call or send a text message to your host to let them know.
4. Lend a hand. You don’t have to make a grand gesture; passing a plate around to other guests or simply returning an empty plate or glass to the kitchen is easy and your host is sure to appreciate the extra help.
5. Don’t wait to be asked if you’d like another drink. It’s acceptable to help yourself, just be sure to offer other guests and the host a drink when you’re getting one for yourself.
6. Be mindful of where you leave cocktail glasses or make sure you use a coaster. You don’t want to leave water marks on furniture or place glasses where they may be accidentally broken.
7. Mix and mingle with friends and strangers. Cocktail parties are the perfect opportunity to break out of your usual social circle and meet new people. If your host has prepared any activities or games, be sure to join in, after all, a party is only as much fun as its guests.
8. The cocktail hour is not always the best time for intense conversations. Avoid discussing topics that are too serious and don’t gossip (well… maybe just a bit!). Be sure to keep body language open and welcoming to other guests.
9. Don’t forget your manners. Always compliment the host on the food and drinks and, of course, his or her fabulous outfit.
10. Pace yourself and drink responsibly. Try to remember to have a glass of water between cocktails or switch a cocktail for a mocktail. You should strive to be the sophisticated life of the party.
11. Know when to leave! Toward the end of the night, be aware of signals from the host that it’s time to wrap up the evening. Always thank your host for the party and be sure to bid farewell to other guests, too.
12. Be sure to follow up with a thank you phone call or text message the following day. Your host will appreciate you taking the time to let them know how much you enjoyed their soiree.

Best regards,

Pia.

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Images sourced with thanks to: Vogue.com.
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