• Remember, when it's the office party, your image is just as important. This is not the time to let your hair down.



• Clothes. If the party is an afternoon open house, casual is appropriate but avoid the tattered jeans and sweats. If the party is in the evening, dresses and pantsuits are great for women and suits or sportswear are great for men.



• Food. If a food is served that you are allergic to or don't like don't say anything to the host. Just don't eat it. The host is not obligated to address the tastes of their guests.

Behavior. Don't get drunk - it's not appropriate at the office party or a get together with your friends. Remember not to speak with your mouth full of food. Avoid using toothpicks in public.

At Midnight. When the clock strikes 12 toast to the New Year and then make your exit soon after. Be sure to thank the host on your way out.

Don't be the last to leave. If it's an open house leave when the time frame is over. If it's a dinner party be sure to be on time. If the party is at someone's home. Bring a gift for the host such as chocolate, flowers, or a bottle of wine. If you don't see ashtrays, don't light up especially in the bathroom.

• Conversation. If an office party talk about topics other than "shop talk." Consider the upcoming Olympics, traveling, books or movies. Avoid off-colored jokes. Try reading the headlines of the newspaper or listening to the news on TV or the radio or topics to talk about if you're normally a wallflower. Keep foul language out the conversation - for either gender, it is not cool.



• At a sit down dinner talk to both partners seated next to you. Rather than pointing out the fly in your salad focus on positive topics.



• Remember to introduce your significant other to the people you meet. Be sure to include them in the conversation. If you're in a group and someone approaches make an effort to include them.

Have a happy and safe holiday!