Friendsgiving etiquette is an art form, nuanced and subtle, yet of the utmost importance. In order to be everyone’s favorite party guest, freshen up your Friendsgiving manners with these etiquette dos and don’ts.
If you say you are attending, do everything in your power to show up. Sure it’s not like the host(s) are paying per plate at a wedding, but they might have prepared something specifically for you or planned something directly around your attendance. Circumstances happen, but try to give as much notice as possible if your RSVP changes.
Always bring something for the host. No matter how many times they tell you they don’t need anything, a Friendsgiving success hinges on collaboration. You can never go wrong with a bottle of wine. If you’re unsure on what to bring, keep it neutral and inexpensive but do not show up empty-handed.
Not all Friendsgiving events involve spouses; a differentiating factor from most other events you will be invited to. If you’re unsure if you are allowed to bring a Plus One, be upfront and ask your host. This will save you a lot of grief with both the host and your spouse — and it’s good Friendsgiving etiquette.
Try your best not to bail early. If you have other plans, let the host know ahead of time so you are not heading out in the middle of a course or interrupting the festivities in any way.
During dinner it is highly recommended that you put your phone down and keep it on silent. This is the best way to truly enjoy the company of others and remain present in the moment. Friendsgiving might be a more relaxed event then Thanksgiving, but common sense and good manners still apply. If you get off on taking food shots, get ‘em out of the way when the table is first presented.
After the event make Friendsgiving photos available to the other attendees. Oftentimes, the photos people really want to see, are not the ones they took, because after all, we all like to see ourselves! Do not leave out any of the attendees when sharing pics. Also, agree on a hashtag at the start so everyone knows where to look. It’s good Friendsgiving etiquette and it benefits everyone.
Be a good Buddhist and avoid any gossip or negative talk about other people. If you are willing to disparage people when they are not around, you better believe the people in the room wondering what you will say when they are not there.
Don’t stay too late. Look for signals and signs that the party is wrapping up. Whether it is the host separating the recycling or folding up chairs that people were sitting on, do not be the last person to leave.
Don’t make the event about you. Friendsgiving is a group holiday that celebrates many things and many people and many bonds. If you happen to have a birthday in close proximity or something else that people might want to celebrate, do your best to return the focus to the event at hand.
Offer assistance. Whether it is set up, clean up or anything in between, the host might have things under control and a plan but you at least want to offer your services to make their day easier.
Talk to everyone! Friendsgiving should be faction-free zone!
Friendsgiving etiquette is everything. Have a great party and put your best foot forward!