The Maney & LauRen Morning Show

Martha Stewart’s Holiday Party Do’s and Don’ts

Author Nicole Weaver

December 7th, 2021 6:04 AM

Want to make a good impression at your holiday party this year? If anyone knows the right way to host one or be a guest, it’s Martha Stewart. During a recent appearance on “Watch What Happens Live,” the lifestyle maven shared her responses to holiday party etiquette questions.

These are Martha’s ultimate holiday party etiquette do’s and don’ts:

Do bring a host gift – As for what to bring the host as a gift, Martha’s very specific answer is one most of us can’t replicate. Her “failsafe” host gift? A dozen eggs from her own chicken coop!
Don’t listen to hosts who say not to bring a gift – Even if the host says not to bring them anything, she says to ignore that advice. “You must take a gift,” this etiquette expert says.
Don’t regift – When asked if it’s ever okay to regift a present, she says it’s a hard no. Host Andy Cohen asked why and Martha replied, “You always get caught.”
Do get rid of lingering guests politely – Sometimes people don’t know when to call it a night and when you’re done but they’re still hanging around, she suggests saying, “I’m going to bed now, so I’ll see you at the next party.”
Do arrive at the perfect time – Cohen asked about the best time to arrive at a party and Martha replied, “A little past call time is always nice for the host because they’re never quite ready.”
Don’t change the seating chart – Even if you don’t like who you’re seated next to at a dinner party, don’t trade spots with anyone. “No, you’re not allowed to,” Martha says. “On Thanksgiving, my daughter moved all of the place cards without my knowledge … and that didn’t go over so well.”