social grace

taming the snark

let's be honest. many of the parties we attend this season are obligatory. so we employ the strategic strike and travel in pairs or packs; hitting several parties ensemble in one night. smart move for scheduling and sharing the small-talk, right?

well the thing is, parties are not bars. you weren't invited to huddle in the corner with your besties sneering at the whole food's cheese plate on the buffet, ripping the playlist and making snarky comments about the party or the one you hit before it. you are a guest and an integral part of the festivities.

give a little when you are invited to someone's home for a party. sure, we all know the basics of good etiquette- the rsvp's, the hostess gift, please and thank you...but having good manners also means working the room and engaging with other guests. look around...who is standing next to you? do you sleep with that person? did you borrow a dress from her last week? if so, you are not mingling. split it up! find someone that hasn't seen you with a toothbrush in your mouth and introduce yourself. ask questions, be curious. complement the tree, the cookies, someone's shoes or hairstyle. smile warmly and wink at your mate or pal from across the room. don't worry...you'll have brunch tomorrow for the full fashion slaughter.