Whether it’s a casual Christmas drinks party, or a formal festive dinner, here’s how to repay your host with great company....
Arrive on time, especially if food is being served
Remember that it's just as impolite to be too early as it is to be too late. A drinks party gives you the opportunity to be more choosy with your timing, but if you're sitting down to dinner and you're late, you deserve to have your dinner in the dog!
Don't overstay your welcome
If all other guests at a party have left and your hosts start clearing up, it's really time to make your farewells. Vacuuming around your feet is a sure sign that your company is no longer wanted.
Enter the party spirit, but don't take over
A good guest is always equipped with lively conversation... but if your voice is the only one to be heard, it's time to pipe down.
Take a gift for your host/hostess
The size of the gift really depends on what you're being invited to. If you're visiting someone's home for a few days over Christmas, it's polite to take a few contributions towards the festivities. A drinks party guest might take along a bottle of wine, chocolates or flowers.
Keep an eye on your intake of both food and alcohol
A drunken guest who has eaten more than his or her share of the Christmas delicacies won't be popular.
Offer your assistance
If you're a good friend or family member, offer to help with cooking, decorating and clearing up. Christmas is a busy time and an extra pair of hands will probably be hugely appreciated.
