During a recent appearance on “Watch What Happens Live,” Martha Stewart shared her responses to holiday party etiquette questions.
These are Martha’s ultimate holiday party etiquette do’s and don’ts:
- Do bring a host gift- As for what to bring the host as a gift, Martha’s very specific answer is one most of us can’t replicate. Her “failsafe” host gift? A dozen eggs from her own chicken coop!
- Don’t listen to hosts who say not to bring a gift- Even if the host says not to bring them anything, she says ignore that advice. “You must take a gift,” this etiquette expert says.
- Don’t re-gift- When asked if it’s ever okay to re-gift a present, she says it’s a hard no. Host Andy Cohen asked why and Martha replied, “You always get caught.”
- Do get rid of lingering guests politely- Sometimes people don’t know when to call it a night and when you’re done but they’re still hanging around, she suggests saying, “I’m going to bed now, so I’ll see you at the next party.”
- Do arrive at the perfect time- Cohen asked about the best time to arrive at a party and Martha replied, “A little past call time is always nice for the host because they’re never quite ready.”
- Don’t change the seating chart- Even if you don’t like who you’re seated next to at a dinner party, don’t trade spots with anyone. “No, you’re not allowed to,” Martha says. “On Thanksgiving, my daughter moved all of the place cards without my knowledge … and that didn’t go over so well.”
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