The pandemic may have increased house gatherings, but etiquette experts remind hosts and guests that certain behaviors remain unwelcome. From touching personal belongings to overstaying one's welcome, adhering to social graces is key to maintaining good relationships.
Respecting Personal Space and Belongings
Experts advise guests to refrain from making themselves too comfortable. "Make yourself at home" does not typically mean touching or moving items without permission. Jodi R.R. Smith, president of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting, suggests asking before interacting with objects, such as opening a refrigerator or removing a book from a shelf. Similarly, guests should not demand a tour of the house; they should wait to be invited by the host.
Avoiding Social Faux Pas
Overstaying one's welcome is a common complaint among hosts. Paying attention to the host's body language and suggesting to relocate if the evening is winding down are key. If hosts change into pajamas, it's a clear sign it's time to leave, according to Nick Leighton, an etiquette expert and co-host of the podcast "Were You Raised by Wolves?"
Accidents happen, but guests should not try to hide messes. Whether it's spilling wine or finishing the toilet paper, informing the host promptly and quietly is the best course of action. Snooping in cabinets and cupboards is also discouraged.
Bringing an uninvited guest is another significant breach of etiquette. Unless explicitly permitted, guests should always ask the host before bringing a plus-one. Similarly, dietary restrictions should be communicated well in advance of a meal, not at the dinner table. This also extends to pets; guests should not feed the host's animals without permission, as they may have allergies or specific diets.
Disrespecting shoe rules can also cause discomfort. Experts advise guests to be prepared to remove their shoes if requested, and to consider bringing socks or slippers if they dislike being barefoot. Hosts, in turn, should be prepared with slippers or socks for guests who prefer not to go shoeless.
Host-Guest Dynamics
When attending a dinner party, guests should not interfere with the setup, such as switching place cards. It is customary for guests to arrive with a small gift for the host, such as a bottle of wine or flowers, as a token of appreciation.