MRS WOOG’S GUIDE TO PARTY SEASON
What is it with this time of year?
Why do we always feel the need to catch up with people that we have spent the last 11 months trying to avoid?
Why would you want to go and party with people from your work? I mean you are only really all in one room drinking cheap, warm wine because you all happened to be successful at the interview process… Unless you work for a fancy bank, and then the wine is more likely to be cold and drinkable. But the company is likely to leave a bad taste in your mouth.
Whether it is a fancy bash, or a more casual affair, there are plenty of events leading up to Christmas. Some are eagerly anticipated, while others bring fear and dread (think partner’s office Christmas party at a function centre).
But one thing in common is that you need to know your responsibilities if you want to be the model guest…
THE RSVP
It is just always, ALWAYS essential. You must do this. It is the height of rudeness to ignore an invitation. I always RSVP as soon as I receive the invitation. Emily Post would have agreed with me 100%.
When you RSVP, it is a nice idea to let them know of any special dietary requirements.
…Like, you only eat lobster.
THE OFFER
It is nice to offer to bring something, especially if the festivities are to be conducted in a private home.
We have moved, I hope, from beyond the keg party, but I always bring a bottle or two. It is just manners. Even a fancy carafe of mineral water will be appreciated.
If you are going to a casual get-together, the offer of bringing a salad or fancy ‘artisan’ bread is de rigeur.
Or, if it is a more formal affair, I like to offer a “top or tail” option. Shall I bring some cheese? Perhaps something sweet?
THE GIFT
Some say it is not necessary, but a hostess gift is always nice. It does not have to be flashy or over the top, but for the love of all things from the re-gifting cupboard, do not re-gift. TACK-ER-AMA! Ditto, service station flowers. That is just embarrassing for everyone involved. At least go into the service station and thoughtfully purchase replacement car mats.
CONDUCT
Do not arrive early and do not arrive late. I like to make my entrance about ten minutes after the required time, to allow the host and hostess to finish up their fight about not putting the bins out of sight and why, oh why, one of them chose that exact time to let their spouse know that they will be going away on business the following morning.
While at the soiree, avail your services to the hostess. Ask once or twice whether there is something you can do to help, but keep in the back of your mind that some hosts are complete control freaks and do not want you anywhere near the kitchen.
If this is the case, you have hit the jackpot! Go forth and be merry. Which leads me to a few Dos and Don’ts…
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15 Responses to this article
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Lisa Mckenzie December 4, 2012
My Christmas season is being very busy at the moment but Yes Mrs Woog i will take on baord your tips,they are gret especially the toilet air freshener one
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C December 4, 2012
Hi Mrs Woog, just a heads up, your bio needs an update with Sonia Kluger now in the mix.
Cheers!
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Nikki @ Styling You December 4, 2012
Dance on tables and sing like you’re a contender for next year’s auditions for The Voice … but not at your husband’s swish and fancy work do. Must. Remember. That.
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Mary J December 4, 2012
Oh, the serial dipper!! I love those guys who can actually dance! One of our best friends is an ace dipper! I think I am the control freak hostess – you do make me laugh!! I’m looking forward to dancing at the company party again this year!
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ro.watson December 4, 2012
I love the illustrations~especially the barefoot hostess in the kitchen….be safe, seasons’ greetings…and Mrs.Woogs, I enjoyed your reference to making the most out of a control freak in the kitchen….
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ro.watson December 4, 2012
Sorry there are so many Mrs.Woogs’, I pluralised you. Clearly, my projection..
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sami December 4, 2012
I’m terrible at parties, I don’t dance and I am too scared to talk to anyone! So no advice here, except maybe be braver than me

Meanwhile my work xmas party is on friday night and thankfully I love my work so it should be a fun night. Problem is I have no dress yet, I have left it a bit last minute and now can’t find anything ‘semi-formal’, whatever that is
party fail. -
Carolyn December 4, 2012
Reservoir Dad, I think you and I have attended some of the same parties.
I was once begged by a guy I met at a party to PLEASE stop talking to him about politics. The message here is clear: be more polite to people and listen to their political views until they have finished sharing every last detail.
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Mumabulous December 4, 2012
What no mention of the classic photo copying of butt cheeks ? I’m disappointed.
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ro.watson December 4, 2012
I am glad there are some people who have a grip on this particular season…summer solstice, christmas etc… but at the risk of self-abuse, this is not the only season in a year. Happy new year.
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ro.watson December 4, 2012
Message from a former frontline worker~ party goers~pick up your mess after yourself, and others, help with washing up and generally add conviality to the end of the party by not being too pissed or judgemental, and generally helpful in clean-up… Your hosts may be wishing to go on holiday the next day……















