Top Ten Tips on Being a Beary Good Dinner Guest
Nothing defines a man more than his sense of style. Here are a few tips on how to be a gracious dinner guest.
When accepting an invitation to dinner, don't expand the invite. They were plannig a dinner for six, and you've just made it nine. Not cool. And remember, decline invitations rather than ignoring them.
Offer to bring something. I like to call shortly before the event to ask if the need anything. Sometimes it's ice or a last minute ingrediant - but it is one less thing for your host to worry about.
Be punctual. Yes, we all know about gay time, but a roast in the oven doesn’t care how fabulous you are when you are 2 hours late.
Talk to someone new. Reach out to someone who might be shy or otherwise not engaged. Make it easy for them to be a part of the evening.
Read the paper. Not good at small talk? Read the front page of the NYT Times and the Journal or peruse Google news online. This will give you a quick review of current events.
Offer a compliment. So the asparagus was over cooked and the risotto was runny, try to find something nice. They tried.
Offer a hand. Maybe its opening the wine or offering to help clear. Yes you are a guest, but leave the tiara at home.
Don’t overstay your welcome. Follow the rhythm of the evening. As things appear to winding down, thank you host(s) and make your exit.
Send a hand written thank you note. If someone took the time to prepare a meal for you, the least you can do is send a personalized note of appreciation.