Almost ten days to Christmas and you have already been invited to two Christmas parties, three Christmas lunches, including two which overlap and a bunch of dinners! Irrespective of whether you celebrate Christmas yourself or not, there is every likelihood that you are a part of the festivities somewhere. The streets are decorated, the wind carries a distinct chill, every building is well lit and the stage is set for a sparkling 25th, but, are you ready for it? Does your etiquette do you justice? Can you actually handle all these parties and dinners with poise? Here are a few tips to avoid Christmas blues.
- Fix Your Schedule
If you just said that you have been invited to two lunches that overlap, here is how you fix it. Call up the person who extended the invitation later and inform him/ her that you are unable to make it as you had already promised to be elsewhere. It is only in very special situations that you should attend lunch number 2 instead of 1. If you do need to choose 2 over 1, please provide a polite reason and make sure you don’t harm the relationship.
- Send Christmas Cards
People who celebrate Christmas appreciate receiving beautiful cards and they form a part of the household decorations. Prepare a list of close friends, family and business associates that are special and get in to the habit of sending them Christmas cards at least four or five days ahead. Note that the card recipients should not be only those who invite you for their festivities.
- Follow the Customs
There may be certain customs that are followed by the host – it is a religious celebration after all. Respect it, follow it or stay out of the way and let those who practice it, do so without any disturbance. Some may offer thanks, others may wish to have a member of the clergy call over for a while and some may pray in front of a statue at home. Either partake or stay a respectful distance away.
- Gift Well
As it is a time of celebrations, good cheer and jubilation, you should get a gift that suits the occasion and your host. Tins of cookies, bottles of fruit wine, gift sets for the house, flowers, fruit candies, decorator candles and ornamental items make good gifts. While you don’t need to break the bank for any of these, buy appropriate brands and avoid being stingy.
- Show Kindness
Do a good deed and be a part of the good vibes; there are plenty of charitable activities that take place and you can easily join. Ask one (ask all if you feel extra generous) of your hosts whether they are involved in any such charitable activity and make a contribution towards it. Your host will feel special and appreciate it warmly.
Also, stop being the Grinch and don’t tell little kids that Santa does not exist. Leave that job to their parents.
For other general tips on being a good guest, refer the Full of Etiquette article titled ‘Five Things We Sri Lankans Do Wrong as Guests’ (https://fullofetiquette.com/2019/12/16/five-things-we-sri-lankans-do-wrong-as-guests/)
Full of Etiquette 
Leave a comment