10 Things You Should Never Do At Someone's Birthday Party & 10 That Make You A Perfect Guest
10 Things You Should Never Do At Someone's Birthday Party & 10 That Make You A Perfect Guest
Life of the Party or Party Pooper?
You expect things to go wrong at a kids’ birthday party; messes get made, and someone will definitely start crying—but who knew so many things could go wrong with adults? Despite our ages, we don’t always behave the way we should, but that’s why we’re here to break down a few simple etiquette rules before your next big shindig.
1. Arriving Late
Most hosts won’t mind if you arrive a few minutes late, but it’s entirely different to get there an hour into the party. It’s even more inconsiderate if the event is being hosted somewhere, like a restaurant or a hall. If invites were sent out, adhere to the time.
2. Complaining About the Party
So, the food’s a little dry. The atmosphere is…lacking. It might not be the best party in the world, but the most important element is your friend! Even if you make comments in jest, they can always get back to the host and make you look ungrateful.
3. Blowing Out Someone’s Candles
We’re not little kids anymore, so leave the candles for the actual person of honor. It might seem harmless in the moment, but it’s a little immature to tread on the tradition. Not only that, but there’s no real reason for it either.
4. Smashing Cake in Someone’s Face
There’s nothing more embarrassing than watching a newlywed husband smoosh cake in his bride’s face. You’ve probably seen the online videos, and even if you haven’t, the whole affair should set off alarm bells. It's no different with birthdays! It’s a waste of money—and food—and isn’t funny at all.
5. Overstaying Your Welcome
The drinks were poured, the music was listened to; now it’s time to head home! A good birthday bash can last into the wee hours, but it’s important to gauge the ambiance. If people started cleaning up, it’s likely time to head out.
6. Dressing Inappropriately
Birthday parties aren’t really the place for cocktail dresses. It’s also not the time for inappropriate t-shirts or bandage skirts—especially if you’re in a restaurant. Unless the host gave you the green light, stick with modest attire.
7. Making It All About You
It doesn’t matter if you’re the younger sibling or going through a messy divorce; try not to make the party about you. It’s already gauche to steal the spotlight, but it also impedes on your happiness! Now’s the time to escape it all for a few hours, so try to have some fun.
8. Showing Up Empty-Handed
Not every host wants presents or a potluck addition; however, it’s still better to arrive with something small. Flowers, a heartfelt card, and even a bottle of wine make easy gifts that won’t eat up space or cost too much money.
9. Controlling the Music
Hey, hey, hey—the guest of honor controls the music! We don’t doubt your choice in tunes, but that’s no reason to take over the speaker. Even if your loved ones like oompah bands, it’s their day, so let them have this.
10. Bringing Uninvited Guests
Uninvited guests are never a good idea. One more head means more food, adjusted party games, more drinks, and could even lead to awkward conversations. If you want to bring someone, ask first.
Birthday parties hardly seem like a black-and-white event, but they’re still celebratory gatherings that deserve respect. Let’s dive into a few ways you can be the best guest.
1. RSVP
Not every birthday party comes with formal invitations. However, it’s still important to get back to the guest of honor. Don’t wait until the last minute either; let them know as soon as you can so they can plan ahead.
2. Participate in Activities
Some party games are a little lame, but they’re also part of the charm! Keep spirits high with enthusiastic participation. You don’t need to spend your whole evening at the pool table, but you can indulge guests.
3. Bring Something Along
The smallest gestures have the biggest impact, so don’t be shy about bringing small presents. Hosts might not want a massive gift, but they’ll appreciate wine or bags of ice. Bring whatever you can to make their lives easier.
4. Stick Around to Clean Up
No one likes cleaning after a party—least of all the host. Be there for your friend and offer to tidy up the mess. You can also assist during the celebration; recycling solo cups and bringing condiments back to the fridge does a world of good.
5. Good Conversation
Parties aren’t the place for embarrassing speeches or inappropriate stories. You can keep the mood light and ensure to welcome other guests into your discussion. It’s always better when everyone feels welcome, especially if they can’t see the host right away.
6. Drink in Moderation
Try not to get hammered at a birthday party! We know it’s tempting with a cooler full of beer, but getting sloshed doesn’t look good, and it’s also pretty disrespectful to the host. It’s even worse if you lose your food or pass out somewhere.
7. Supervise Your Kids
You’re responsible for your kids’ behavior. They shouldn’t run around or make a mess of decorations, and they definitely shouldn’t sample the cake before anyone else. If they’re allowed, they’re under your care, so make sure they act responsibly.
8. Offer to Help
Does someone need a fresh beer? Is the snack table out of napkins? While you don’t need to monitor every detail, you can still jump in to make the host’s life easier. You don’t need to ask either—some hosts are so busy that those little chores go amiss, which is where you come in!
9. Assume You’ll Pay for Yourself
It’s best to assume you’ll pay for yourself at a restaurant. Though the host or their family traditionally grabs the bill, bring your wallet anyway to avoid any discomfort. The last thing you want is to get that call wrong.
10. Thank the Host
Hosts put in a lot of work to make parties happen. Before you go, thank the organizers and say goodbye to your friend. It’s much classier to leave behind a kind word than to just get up and go.
