Dear EFAP: holiday etiquette
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Below is our response to the next selection – enjoy!
Dear EFAP
I’m only a recent employee to VCH and resident to Canada. I have yet to learn all the Christmas and holiday customs. I have been invited to a few holiday parties over the next few weeks. What is customary to bring to the host/hostess? Help! 🙂
- Inquiring about the Etiquette
Dear Inquiring about the Etiquette
How thoughtful of you to be asking about what to bring to holiday party host and hostesses. You are certainly not the only one who is not sure of what kind of gift is appropriate. I’ll do my best to make a few suggestions.
When you RSVP to a party it is always nice to ask the hosting person if you can bring anything. Often, they will say if they want you to bring something specific. It is often customary at more casual parties for hostesses to have people contribute. They might suggest that you bring wine or a salad or an appetizer.
For fancier soirees or just because they want to do it all themselves, the host might say to just bring yourself. When they say this, it usually means that you do not need to bring food or drink. But it is still nice to bring something that is more of a thank you gift than something that will contribute to the meal. This is especially true if you are the guest of honour. A bouquet of flowers is always nice and especially so if it is a celebration. But if you decide on this, please bring them prepared and in a vase so that the hostess does not have to stop and find a vase and arrange them.
Gourmet chocolates or a jar of specialty nuts can also be nice if there are no food sensitivities. Scented candles can also be nice wrapped in cellophane and tissue. And for many, who drink wine, wine as a gift in a nice bag is appreciated. But if you do not know if someone drinks alcohol it is best to stay away from wine and stick with one of the other choices. Something that is small, easy and says thank you is key.
One of my favourite items to bring to parties over the holidays is a poinsettia. This is a lovely holiday plant. I always bring a white one as it is a bit different from the customary red. It is not expensive, tasteful and is always well received. Welcome to Canada and to VCH! Good luck and enjoy your first Canadian holiday parties!
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The advice offered in this column is meant to be used as general guidance based on the facts provided. The opinions or views expressed should not be relied on as treatment or counselling services. If you are a VCH staff member and find yourself in need of counselling or support, please contact EFAP toll free at 1-800-505-4929 or 604-872-4929, your family doctor, or another appropriately trained and qualified specialist.