Kristi Spencer, founder of The Polite Company, says that when you get together with friends and family for the holidays, keep the conversation light, adding, “I encourage people to steer clear of these five pitfall conversations: politics, religion, money, health challenges, and difficult relationships. Instead, chat about your latest binge-watches, share stories from fun vacations, or relive your best holiday memories.”
She also advises continuing to RSVP for holiday parties in a timely manner. And she says to never show up empty-handed to a seasonal shindig.
“Whether it’s a dish you can contribute to the party menu or a small host gift, bring a little something to show your appreciation,” Spencer says. It’s also still customary to thank your host, whether it’s a holiday gathering or any other event.
And of course, one big, overarching etiquette rule for the holidays? As Grumet says, “You do not want to ignore being respectful of others’ traditions and religious customs.”
You should never regift.
Although it may seem like it is, Spencer says that regifting is not universally off-limits.
“But it should be done thoughtfully,” she says. “First, ask yourself: ‘Is this something the recipient would really like?’ If the answer is yes, then regifting is OK.”
She also advises presenting the gift well, which means it’s in the original packaging and you’ve removed all traces of it being given to you. “A little re-wrapping can go a long way,” Spencer says.
Grumet adds that you should avoid regifting within the same circle.
“The last thing you ever want to do is hurt someone’s feelings if the person who gave you the gift found out,” she says.
Always set up a kids’ table.
It’s only natural that kids attend holiday celebrations, and as you may remember from growing up, you were always at the desert-island “kids’ table” far from the adults. That’s a guideline that you can throw out the window, according to Spencer.
She says, “I suggest skipping the ‘kids’ table’ and opting to be together around a table regardless of everyone’s age. Holidays are a fantastic opportunity for little ones to learn social skills and table manners.”
