Dinner Party Etiquette: Arrival

Increase your social I.Q. and mind your table manners with these etiquette tips.

Dinner Party Arrival:

Back in the day, the proper arrival time for a dinner party was 10 minutes early and conversely, it seems as if today's guests arrive 10 minutes late.

• A well-mannered dinner guest should arrive right on time.

• If you have an unforeseen situation where you will be late, call the host to let them know.

• Never bring an uninvited guest along with you unless the invitation allows for it.

Host Gift:

It's a nice gesture to bring the dinner party host a gift.

• Flowers are ideal and wine is fine!

• Never show up with a surprise dish, such as dessert, unless you've been asked to do so by the host.

Cell Phone Etiquette:

There's nothing ruder than a guest's cell phone buzzing or ringing at any point during an intimate dinner party.

• Turn off your cell phone or put it on vibrate.

• If you absolutely need to check messages (i.e. to see if the babysitter called), excuse yourself from the main party room to do so.