As Thanksgiving rolls around, you may be making plans to visit a friend or significant other’s home for the holiday. This can be a nerve racking experience, and we all know that anxious feeling you get when meeting your significant other’s extended family and close friends. Conversation topics run rampant through your mind, and your palms may even begin to sweat at the thought of shaking hands with strangers. Do you go in for the handshake first or wait for them to initiate? These are social cues we all struggle with. Here are a few do’s and don’ts regarding polite guest behavior for you to follow this Thanksgiving.
DO: Bring something small and something they can fit on the table easily. Whether it is a bottle of wine or a small desert, your friend or significant other’s family will be impressed with your thoughtfulness.
DON’T: Be glued to your friend or significant other’s side the entire time. His/her family will respect you more if you are able to carry a conversation on your own. This is also a great way for them to get to know you better!
DO: Arrive with an appetite. Some people can be very insulted if you don’t appear to be enjoying a good quantity of their food. Hint: Try not to overload your plate otherwise it will look like you didn’t enjoy it when in reality you just couldn’t possibly finish it all!
DON’T: Reply to people’s questions with one-word answers. Try to be open and friendly, and ask questions in return. Also, obviously steer clear of controversial subjects such as politics and religion.
DO: Dress moderately conservatively. This doesn’t mean you can’t look cute, but try to keep it classy for his/her family. Also, ask your friend or significant other whether it is a more casual or dressy event. This should help you in deciding what to wear!
DON’T: Have your phone out. Put it on silent, and leave it in your bag. You don’t need to scroll through instagram to know it’s filled with pictures of people’s thanksgiving plates. You can check it out later! In the meantime, you will look mature and respectful by not using it.
DO: Remember to thank the host for having you! Show your sincere gratitude by complimenting the food and the home before leaving. You’d be surprised how grateful his/her family will be for your appreciation.
I hope these tips will ease your anxiety and help you in being a wonderful guest! Happy Thanksgiving!