With the holidays close at hand, the festivities are bound to abound. If you've forgotten what it takes to be the perfect guest, let this little refresher course help you to mind your p's and q's.
RSVP
Your reservation is requested for a reason. It's called preparation. Your host or hostess wants to provide you with a beautiful, festive event so it's only fair to offer the courtesy call to let her know you'll be attending and if you'll be bringing a guest. Of course, the follow up is crucial. If you say you're coming, be there with bells on. They're counting on you.
Can I bring someone?
Well…it depends. The easiest way to know if your guest is welcome is by looking at the way your invitation is addressed. If it says "Your Name and guest" or "You and your significant other," well then it's pretty clear. If it only says your name, it's less easy to decipher. Generally speaking, if this is a sit down dinner or an event that appears to be costly for the host, the invitation addressed to you is for you and only you. Don't even ask if it's all right to bring someone, as your host will only feel bullied into saying yes and their intimate dinner will become controlled by the guests.
An open house, cocktail party or something more casual, is a horse of a different color. Don't just assume it's okay but feel free to ask away. While you're at it, be sure to find out what you and your guest can bring.
