Party Etiquette for the Host

As the host of a party, there are certain responsibilities you must assume for the success of your party.

Invitation List

When making up your guest list, you should not invite more people than your home or venue can accommodate. You want to invite people who are compatible with each other and you also do not want to leave off friends or couples who usually do things together. When planning a sit-down dinner, you want to create a balance between male and female guests.

Make sure your guests know what type of party you are having so they can dress appropriately.

Introductions

When your guests arrive, you should introduce them to each other. You should talk to your guests during the party. Keep an eye on them. When your guests seem to be clustered in one group for a while, you should break it up by introducing them to other guests.

Adequate Food and Drink

Keep an eye on the drinks and food. You should remove empty glasses, refill empty bowls of snacks and replace appetizer trays.

When you are ready to serve dinner, let your guests know. Generally, they will follow you to the table. If not, you can let them know that dinner is being served. If a guest is late 15 minutes or more, start your dinner. The guests can be seated when they get there.

Non-Smoking

If you do not smoke, you should let your guests know. You can set up a smoking area outside your home such as on the patio or balcony. Make sure there are comfortable chairs and ashtrays for the smoker's use.

Clean-up

Your guests may volunteer to help with clean-up. If your party is an informal one, you will probably accept their help. If your party was a sit-down dinner, you should refuse their help. If you have the budget, you should hire professional servers to serve the meal. They will also clear the table and clean the dishes.

Too Much to Drink

If you serve alcoholic beverages at your dinner, you should monitor the amount of drinks your guest have. In some states, you are responsible if your guest drinks too much and has an accident. If you see that a gues has had too much to drink, call a taxi or drive the person home.

Your party will be a success if you plan it with the enjoyment of your guests in mind.