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I love New Year’s Eve! It’s the perfect time to bond with friends, while reflecting on goals and aspirations for the new year. I really believe in the power of intention. Starting the year off with good intentions sets the tone for the rest of the year. That being said, some people can get a bit unraveled during the New Year’s Eve festivities. You know, alcohol has a tendency to make us a bit more, shall we say, relaxed. With the holiday fast approaching, I want to cover five etiquette tips for New Year’s Eve…so read on.
1. Be an Awesome Guest
Like most people, you’ll probably be invited to a number of New Year’s Eve affairs. If it’s a potluck, don’t be a tightwad. It’s unfair to attend a party, eat all the food and take home leftovers, when you only contributed a two-liter of soda. If it’s not a potluck, ask the host if there’s something you can bring anyway or bring a bottle of champagne. In addition to food, you’ll want to confirm the dress code for the event. It will be awkward if you arrive in jeans and a t-shirt, while everyone else is dressed in their finest cocktail attire.
2. Don’t Forget to R.S.V.P.
People who don’t confirm their party invites are one of the worst offenders of poor etiquette. It takes extensive planning and preparation to make a great party go off without a hitch. One of the things which helps in that department is when guests actually confirm if they plan to show up. Don’t wait until December 30 to confirm in hopes that a better invite will come along. With today’s e-invitations, your host will see through that right away. Remember to be courteous and don’t forget to hit the RSVP button.
3. Host Etiquette
Planning a great New Year’s Eve bash can be a lot of fun. But you definitely want to make sure you’re exhibiting the utmost decorum, when it comes to considering those around you. Always inform your neighbors if you plan on hosting a party that will last until midnight or require cars to be parked down the block. In fact, the most polite thing to do would be to invite them! Even if they decline, at least they’ll be aware of the noise level that might occur. Keep in mind, not everyone is into partying into the wee hours of the morning.
4. Don’t Be a Party Pooper
It’s really tempting to stay in your comfort zone by only socializing with people you know throughout the night. Make the most of your night by conversing with new people around you. You never know who you might meet in a new setting. Additionally, come to the party with good energy. You may be a little down that you’re single or frustrated that you’re not where you thought you’d be by the end of the year, but resist the urge to complain about these things during the night. Nobody likes a Negative Nancy. Parties are all about having a great time. So no matter how you’re feeling, keep the mood light.
5. Do Not Get Drunk
This is probably easier said than done. New Year’s Eve is almost synonymous with having one too many. Just because you may be offered a ton of free alcohol, it doesn’t give you the right to get drunk. You want your New Year Eve to be memorable, and not in a bad way. There are plenty of taxis, Ubers and free driving services available during New Year’s Eve. As host, make sure that all of your guests are able to get home safely. Brew a pot of coffee towards the end of the night and call cars for those who cannot drive. It saves you the legal liability.
I am truly grateful for all of the viewers of this blog and clients who I have come in contact with over the past year. My hope for you is that you get all of the things you desire in this New Year and more. Enjoy the festivities, be safe and have a fabulous New Year!
Crystal L. Bailey