How to Behave When Invited to a Party
Many of us will receive at least one invitation to a party or event every year. Sometimes the invites are temporarily put aside until we can finally get to them and have time to look them over. While many address it in a timely manner, there are those who don’t handle it properly. Here are some tips on how to behave when you are invited to a party.
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Instructions
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Respond to the invitation as soon as possible. Whether you will or will not be attending and even if you aren’t sure, contact the host and let him know. If you respond that you may be attending, make sure to respond with a definite answer before the RSVP date.
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Offer to bring a contribution to the party. Gatherings, events and parties can be expensive. To be a gracious guest and help to alleviate some of the cost, offer to bring something. If you have a tight budget, address certain products instead of asking a general question. For example, you could ask “Would you like me to bring some soda?” It is also important to bring a small token of appreciation for the hostess, such as a bottle of wine, as a thank you for the invitation.
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Understand that the invite is meant just for you unless otherwise specified. Don’t ask to bring a guest if there is no mention of it on the invitation. Most invitations will say “you are allowed to bring guests” or “plus one;” however, there are times when guests are not permissible. When you call to ask, you put the host or hostess in an awkward position of having to explain why they don’t want additional people coming. Just remember, if they say yes to you, then they will have to extend the same courtesy to the rest of the guests attending.
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Ask the host or hostess what the proper attire is if the information is not stated on the invitation. Showing up for a gathering either underdressed or overdressed can be pretty awkward. Not only is it an embarrassment to you, but also to the host or hostess. There are times when the information is inadvertently left off of the invitation, so if it is not stated then ask if the proper attire is casual, business casual, semi-formal or formal.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure to only RSVP the way that the host or hostess asks. For example, if the invitation says to call, then place a phone call and don‘t send an email.
