|
How to Be: Attending a Party |
|
|
 No matter what kind of recluse you may be, there's a good chance someone, somewhere, will invite you to a party. So after you've napped, refreshed yourself, cleaned up and picked out your best gear, you want to see your friends, have a good time, cure your all-consuming boredom with life, and maybe meet someone cute. Here's how to behave at a party so you look a little better than the next guy: Never Arrive Empty Handed. Before you show up, hit the store and pick up a gift for the host/hostess. The gift depends on the event, but flowers are appropriate, as is a bottle of something drinkable. Unless you know the person has a moral problem with booze (or is on the wagon), a bottle of wine or spirits is a safe bet, particularly if you know what he or she likes.
He Came, He Saw, He Left. You don't need to be the first to arrive, but aim to show up within half an hour of the party's kick-off. It's the right thing to do and it's respectful. Also, don't be the last to leave unless you're staying over. We've hosted several parties in our day and never like kicking folks out at 4 am, saying, "You don't have to go home, but you can't stay here."
We Roll Deep. If you plan to bring a bunch of friends that haven't been invited to the party, clear it with the host prior barreling in with your crew. Unless it's a closed dinner party or a special occasion, a polite host won't say no, but before you crash the party, be sure to remember Tip #1 and bring something nice for the host.
Wine as a Gift: Wine makes a great party gift. We prefer reds because the host can choose to open the wine then, or store it for another time. But whatever you bring, give the wine directly to the host.Dress the Part. It's a party, so live a little and dress the part. It's always better to be overdressed than underdressed. Let the occasion be your guide, but step out large. If it's Halloween, then chaps, a cowboy hat, and a lasso are fine (though always better on her than you), but if it's Christmas, wear your best suit.
It's Not Your House. Clear potentially offensive behavior, like smoking cigars or dropping acid, with the host first. Don't do something you wouldn't want someone doing at your party, like screaming at the top of your lungs, standing on furniture, helping yourself to "what's in the cabinets," or using the hostess's bedroom for some bump ‘n grind. . . unless it's with the hostess, of course! |
|
|
Good Stuff for Better Guys |
|
Advance Your Swagger: Men's Etiquette for the Good Life |
 Fonzworth Bentley, Diddy's former Man Friday, estwhile hip-hop artist, and fashion plate to the stars gives guys the low-down on how manners, confidence, and style can get you pretty far in life. And you don't have to carry an umbrella around St. Tropez for it to happen. |
|
|
Your Life 
