Dating Do’s and Don’ts For Holiday Parties
Deciding whether or not to bring a date to a holiday party? Consider both the date and the party. Whoever you bring as your date will serve a reflection of you and the choices you make. While it’s nice to have a partner on your arm, if they’re going to act inappropriately, be unable to engage in small talk, or tend to drink too much, it’s better to go solo. Whether it’s a friend’s holiday bash, an office party, or a family affair, you want your date to be an asset, not embarrass you. Determining this is really based on how well you’ve connected with and trust the person, not the number of dates you’ve had. And, although there are no hard and fast rules about when it is or isn’t appropriate to bring a date, there are some general guidelines for each type of event.
When to bring a date to a friend’s holiday bash
There’s something to be said for the fantasy of showing up to a friend’s party in a stunning outfit with an impressive date on your arm. The idea of bringing a date who is charming and fun to be around is thrilling.
Since friends are usually the most liberal and accepting group of people you know, they should be the first ones to meet your new potential partner. If you’ve been on a few dates and you feel comfortable around your new love interest, then a friend’s holiday party could be the perfect opportunity to see what they’re like around people you know. Plus, it’s the perfect opportunity to see how your date acts at a party before you decide to introduce them to your coworkers or family.
When to bring a date to your office holiday party
Before bringing someone you’re dating to your holiday party, you need to make sure they are respectable and will make you shine. Here, you’re looking for someone who will compliment you, not kiss and tell. It doesn’t matter if your date isn’t the most beautiful person in the room, what matters is that your date is kind, endearing, and appropriate.
Do you know the person well enough to feel confident your evening will be enjoyable and not stressful with them as your date? If you’re speaking to your boss or the CEO, would you be proud to introduce them to your date? If you needed to use the restroom, are you comfortable leaving your date alone? When you’re ready to leave, will your date willingly leave with you? Answering those questions will help you determine if you should ask or go solo.
When to bring a date to your annual family event
It’s probably best to wait until you are in an exclusive relationship until you bring them to a family event. That doesn’t mean you’re moving in together or planning to walk down the aisle, but it does mean that you should be in a solid relationship. Meeting family members is a big step for both of you, especially at a holiday party where they are lots of family members to meet all at once. The attention you will both receive can be overwhelming and may put a strain on your relationship if it isn’t stable.
How do you ask someone to a holiday party?
Figuring out what to say might feel awkward, especially if you don’t have a long history with the person you are asking. How should you ask without coming on too strong? It doesn’t matter whether you call them on the phone, send them a text, or type up an email, keep it light and casual. Let them know that your friend or office is having a holiday party and you learned that people are bringing their husbands, wives, or dates. You think it could be a fun night they’ll enjoy if they are free. Make it clear that there’s no pressure, and don’t be offended if they pass. It doesn’t mean they aren’t interested in seeing you again, they may simply not be ready to take that step.