Couture Cuisine interviewed professional party planner, friend, and 30-Day Bride Cachelle Odette (www.savoirflare.com) to learn more about dos and don’ts when it comes to attending holiday cocktail parties.

party planner, friend, & 30-Day Bride Cachelle Odette

As a party planner and active socialite herself, Cachelle attends many celebrations, each very different from the last.  She says the key to being a graceful guest is confidence, and the best way to be confident is to be prepared.  Find out what sort of atmosphere you’ll be in – is this a casual or formal party, or somewhere in between?  Are dates and children invited?  What is the dress code?  Once you have this information in hand, Cachelle says, you will be confident and therefore at ease – and less likely to nervously slosh a martini onto your new shoes.

When you first arrive at the party, do not head directly for the bar or cheese plate.  Cachelle stresses that cocktail parties are designed to facilitate conversation, and your job as guest is to circulate first, then enjoy a drink or canapé.  When you do find yourself with a refreshment in hand, be sure to hold it with your left, so that the other is free for greeting.  And, Cachelle says, even though you might be tempted by delicious circulated treats, do not eat constantly as this hampers your ability to engage others in conversation.  Wait until your fellow guest is speaking to enjoy an hors d’oeuvre – and be sure to enjoy it in one quick bite if possible, to allow the tête-à-tête to flow smoothly. 

Next week: Cachelle advises on what to do when disaster strikes: handling spills, looking put-together in poor weather, and managing complicated canapés.