Issue # 30 - A revisit to etiquette

Issue # 30 - A revisit to Etiquette


Well gents, the Christmas season is upon us once again, and that means that the party train is in full force. This time of year is a stocking fully stuffed with gatherings, family events, parties and socials, and it's important for a stylish man to be equipped with etiquette, and all the trimmings. Because remember, style isn't just what you wear, it's how you are.


Those of you that have been reading all along might remember an issue based on proper party etiquette a few months back. I apologize for the redundancy, but I feel that there is an extreme lack in knowledge of proper party etiquette (especially among the younger generations today), and I figured, what better time than the christmas season to refresh everyones memories. So without any further babbling, let us begin.


1 - Always bring something for the host -

This is a rule that I find gets overlooked more and more these days, and It's about time it stopped. When someone is inviting you into their house for a party, whether it's BYOB or Alcohol is provided, it's always a great sign of respect to bring something small for the host. It's not only a sign of respect, but it's also a sign of appreciation. Think of it as a thank you. Like you're saying "hey, thank you for letting me into your home, letting me use your facilities, preparing food for me, and potentially letting me crash on your kitchen floor".
Now don't get all worked up, you don't have to get them a thoughtful gift, a bottle of wine will suit just fine. As mentioned in many previous issues, there are a lot of fantastic wines available for under $15. I suggest a no-thinking-needed white wine like the Gewurtztraminer-Riesling from Open, or the always amazing late autumn riesling by Inniskillin.


2 - Be prepared to share -

All parties are different. Some people supply no alcohol at all, and leave it up to you to bring your own. Some parties are BYOB, but there is a table prepared with small amounts of alcohol from the host. Some are fully stocked with the option of bringing something you want. When i throw parties, i prefer the pot luck method, I supply a small amount of the neccessities; vodka, rye, rum, gin, mix, and each person brings something of their own. Everything goes onto a table, and everyone can drink what they wish, much like a pot luch lunch in a workplace. Regardless of the type of party it is, be prepared to share your booze. You never know when a friend will show up empty handed, or someone runs out of their drink of choice.


3 - Respect your surroundings  -

Unless it is very well known that YOU are the guest of honour, it's important to remember that the party is not about you. It's a gathering of people, selected by the host, in the host's living space. Your host has most likely put at least a decent amount of time into the decor, the food and the music, and it most certainly was not centered around you personally...so respect that. Whether the host has taken the time to construct a well thought out jazz playlist, or just put their iTunes on shuffle, it is not appropriate to complain about the music selection, or ask to change it. Chances are, your taste in music will not match the rest of the room's, so just let it be. The same goes for the food selection. If you are not a fan of the food provided, don't eat it.


4 - Don't abuse the open bar -

If the party is BYOB, but there is also alcohol provided, do not manipulate this factor. Don't be the guy that shows up with 2 cans of budweiser, then mooches the free jagermeister. The bar is not there for you to have a field day. It's there as a courtesy and your host was kind enough to supply it, so don't abuse it.


5 - do NOT be "THAT guy" -

This is a very broad rule, but one of the most important. Don't be THAT guy gentlemen. Do not get wasted, become obnoxious, vomit, yell, dance on tables...you get the point. Bottom line gents, judge your surroundings, and be classy. It's perfectly fine to catch a solid buzz, but just watch the party, and judge your actions accordingly.


6 - Be an adult -

This one is for the younger guy. Take into consideration the age mixture of the party you're attending, and the overall atmosphere. You will find that there will most likely be very few people interested in doing a beer bong, or a keg stand, so don't even offer.

And perhaps the most important of all the etiquette rules;

7 - LEAVE YOUR ALCOHOL BEHIND -

Very few things are as tacky as leaving the party with the booze you showed up with. The general rule of thumb is to leave it behind. This, much like bringing the host a bottle of wine, is a sign of respect, and a wordless thank you for a great time. It doesn;'t matter if there is less than a drink in the bottle, or if there's only one bottle of beer left in your case, leave it behind. The host may keep them for another party, or in my case, keep it aside for the next time you visit. This is very important and needs to be adhered to.


Now, before i get emails from people, it's also very important to remember to use your judgement for each party. Each one is different, and you know your friends much more than i do, so just go with what you feel. But please guys, take these points to heart. Nothing is less stylish than a man with no etiquette.


Until next time,
S.G.