Holiday parties are full of opportunities for awkwardness. Be it a family affair or a huge office party, things can get pretty out of hand. Here are our top four party mood killers and the best way to deal with them as a party-goer.
1. You spilled or broke something.
Apologize, help the host clean the mess, offer to replace whatever you broke, and move on. If you're drinking, or if you're just naturally clumsy, eye the room for potential tripping hazards as soon as you arrive and stay mindful. Your hosts will thank you.
2. You drank too much.
If you notice the world starting to spin, or you start to feel nauseous, take a 10-minute break in the bathroom to splash some water on your face and drink a tall glass of cold water. If you feel better, go back to the party, eat something and stay hydrated. If you don't feel any better, go home. It's not worth a massive party faux-pas that'll become fodder for office gossip.
3. Someone brought up politics or religion.
Though the number one etiquette rule is to not talk about these sensitive topics over dinner or at a party, says Vogue, it does almost always happen. Do what you can to steer the conversation away from the issue. If your uncle says, "That Trump guy really has some great ideas," and you fervently disagree, take a deep breath. You can say that you disagree, but don't tear into him, because a conversation over Christmas dinner won't change anyone's political or religious beliefs. Move on. Talk about Trump's hair, and then ask your uncle about his own hair care regimen.
4. The party runs out of food or drinks.
It happens. A flawless party is nearly impossible to plan, and even catering companies have slip-ups. Maybe a produce order never came, maybe 15 extra guests showed up. However, this problem has a simple fix. Pizza is always a good solution, says Woman's Day. Ask the host lightheartedly if it's OK to order one. Chances are, they'll see the humor of the situation and have a slice themselves. As for drinks, be a great party guest and come equipped with a bottle of liquor. If the party runs dry too early in the evening, break it out and share. If all goes well, give it to the host at the end of the night as a thank you.
