“Make yourself at home.”
If you’re the type who loves dinner parties and other gatherings, then you are familiar with that line. But you also know that boundaries are important when you step inside someone’s home, so you must be careful and act appropriately.
Here are 11 rude things a guest would do inside someone else’s home that you should avoid doing.
Bringing an uninvited company
When a host invites you over, the host is only expecting you and you alone. Never bring an additional head without letting the host know and without their consent.
Showing up empty-handed
Unless told otherwise, a guest should arrive with something on hand. It doesn’t have to be anything grand. You can bring a bottle of wine, some fruits or dessert, or even a bouquet of flowers.
Shoes on? Shoes off?
People always debate whether to keep their shoes on or off when entering the house. Well, if it’s not your home, you have no say.
Respect the shoe rules that your host has, and do not impose what you practice at home. If you’re uncomfortable taking off your shoes, bring a pair of socks or indoor slippers in your bag or car.
Expecting a house tour
You might be eager to check what their entire house looks like, but your host is not entitled to show you around – nor should you expect a little tour. Respect the boundaries of your host and wait until they ask or invite you for a tour.
Snooping around
I get it; you get curious about what’s in the host’s cupboard and cabinets. However, it’s rude to do so without their blessing. Try your best to resist the urge to open cabinets and drawers just because you are curious. You are not a detective trying to solve a crime and looking for evidence; you’re a guest.
Touching and moving things
According to Jodi R.R. Smith, president of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting, when the house says “make yourself at home,” it isn’t meant to be taken literally. It only means to loosen up and feel comfortable. But not too comfortable that you start touching and moving things around.
If something piques your curiosity, ask permission from the host before touching anything. Better yet, wait for them to initiate that.
Hiding a mess
Let’s say you snooped around, touched and moved things, and accidentally made a mess. What are you going to do?
Most of us would want to hide a mess – whether we broke or spilled something – but that’s one thing you shouldn’t do. Never ignore or hide it. The best thing to do is to let the host know as soon as possible.
Switching or moving place cards
Most dinner parties don’t have this, especially if the people invited are from the same circle of friends. However, if the host assigns you to a seat or table, never switch or move the place cards so you can sit with someone at the other end of the table.
Your host might have strategically planned these placements to ensure everybody is comfortable. Do not interfere with their setup.
Not informing your dietary restrictions
Going to a party means you cannot control the food your host serves. If you have any dietary restrictions, especially food allergies, let the host know in advance days before the party. You can include that information once you RSVP to their invitation.
Feeding their pets
Pets are cute, and it’s difficult to resist the need to get their affection. Most of us would do so by giving them treats or any food. However, you shouldn’t do that to your host’s pets. You have dietary restrictions, and so do their pets. You don’t want to be why they’d send their beloved pet to the vet, right?
Overstaying
Know when to leave. Period. Never overstay, even if you think the rest of the company is having a good time.
Be sensitive about the host’s body language. Look for signs that they may seem exhausted and would like to call it a night. If you and some guests still love to chat, you can always suggest talking elsewhere.
Heading to a dinner party? Share these tips to your friends who would be with you on your next party.
