From Thanksgiving, to Christmas, to Hannukah, to heck, even Flag Day, I love being invited to a friend's house for any type of party. And from black tie dinner party to backyard BBQ there are a few rules that I follow to insure that I have tons of fun, and get invited back.
Be Mindful, Observant, and Relay your Gratitude
Look, "mindful" is far too buzzy of a word for me to typically use but here, in this context, I can think of few others. Meaning - be present and aware at the party. Leave the phone in the car and really soak in all that the host (and guests) have done to make the moment happen. Observe the details like flowers, decorations, and most importantly: Effort. Having soaked all that it, please, please, please relay your gratitude to the host with no more than a couple of sincere compliments. Acknowledging their effort and letting them know that it is seen and appreciated will go a very long way.
Bring TWO bottles of wine
Fine. I admit it, I like wine more than the average bear. But bringing two bottles to a party is not extreme, hear me out (says the fella that usually brings six). The reason I like to bring two bottles is because one is for sharing and one is for replenishing the host's stash. To avoid any awkward confusion as to which is for drinking and which is for saving you simply mark the bottle for saving with a ribbon or bow. If you want to take it a step further (and really be a super guest) make sure that the wine for sharing that night is at the proper temperature: low 45-50 degrees for white wines and 55-60 degrees for reds. This not only shows your super-wino prowess, but also takes the pressure off of the host having to chill your wine somewhere before service. Oh...and always let the host choose when to serve your wine. You may think it should be with the main course, but they might already have a plan, so don't be thrown for a loop if you see yours with the cheese course.
A Timely Thank-You Text
My mom and dad once made us drive back to my aunt's house to tell her "what a delightful night we had" because us kids forgot to do so when we left. In today's world, a thoughtfully worded text will deliver the message just fine. It is the timing that matters. Send it the next morning before 11:00 am. Hangovers have begun to fade, the kitchen is only half-a-disaster, and your host will be starting to relive the night with a tinge of fondness. A note from you, at that moment, will bring a much deserved smile to their face...kind of making it all worth it.
Throwing a great party or hosting an elegant dinner is an artform that requires planning, practice, and patience to master. But being a great host without any great guests is just a tragedy. So next time you are headed to a party, take a moment to practice these tips and you will give the host the very thing they desire the most - an evening to remember.
Oh, and watch your dance card fill up!
Jonah
