Etiquette guru, Founder and CEO of the Sydney School of Protocol Julie Lamberg-Burnet, about how to stay well-behaved on New Year's Eve and wake up feeling fresh and free of regret.
New Year's Eve is the final hoorah of the holiday season - a night where people let their hair down and welcome in the new year with a bang.
But like all celebrations, it's common for issues to arise over party invites, over-indulgence in alcohol and miscommunication over dress code.
KNOW THE DRESS CODE
If you are a person who leaves getting ready to the last minute - take note.
New Year's Eve is the perfect opportunity to shine, and Ms Lamberg-Burnet suggested you opt for a dash of elegance in smart evening attire.
'Use this as an opportunity to be glamorous,' she said.
If you are still unsure, check the dress code with the host.
BE STRICT WITH THE GUEST LIST
Hosting a successful party is not as simple inviting every friend you have on Facebook.
Ms Lamberg-Burnet suggested hosts invite guests who will be compatible together, and if someone invites themselves, it is okay to say no.
'If someone uninvited has requested to attend you can politely decline the request - say you are sorry, but you are at your guest limit on this occasion – this is perfectly acceptable,' she said.
Hosts should also provide a brief on the party's finer details including the dress code, venue and format.
INVITE YOUR NEIGHBOURS
Throwing an all-night rager is no way to make friends with your neighbours.
But while they will expect noise on New Year's Eve, Ms Lamberg-Burnet said briefing them on your plans is a 'great way to diffuse any frustration at midnight'.
'If you are hosting a New Year’s Eve party, make sure to include your neighbors on the guest list,' she said.
PERFECT YOUR MINGLING SKILLS
No-one wants the party to fizzle out before midnight, and making conversation is the best way to keep people engaged.
Ms Lamberg-Burnet said guests should introduce themselves to any new members of the group and use open-ended questions to keep the conversation animated and interesting.
'Do not be distracted when conversing or introducing yourself – have excellent eye contact and you will be certain to engage and put people at ease,' she said.
The best way to make a positive first impression? Initiate a strong handshake.
CATER TO GUESTS WITH CHILDREN
While most parties become more rowdy as the night goes on, the same can not be said for the younger guests.
If you are inviting families with young children, make sure you cater for the fact that they might not make it till midnight.
'If you invite guests with children, ask them to bring a sleeping bag and pillow and set aside a room for tired children to rest or watch a movie as the night progresses,' Ms Lamberg-Burnet suggested.
BE RESPECTFUL TO YOUR HOST
While the focus is on midnight, be sure to not overstay your welcome.
The perfect guest would be on time and leave at a reasonable hour.
Before the party, ask the host if you may bring along any food or supplies they might like on the night.
DRINK IN MODERATION
While a gift of Champagne would be well received by your host on New Year, a drunken show of debauchery would not.
Ms Lamberg-Burnet advised party-goers to 'temper' their drinking, and keep hydrated with water.
'Remember the focus of the night is midnight so retain your composure for the “after party”,' she said.
KEEP THE MIDNIGHT KISS POLITE
A drunken pash as the clock strikes midnight is not a good way to ring in the New Year.
Instead, opt for a polite kiss on the cheek.
'If you have brought a date or partner to the party, a kiss is the best way to ring in the New Year,' Ms Lamberg-Burnet said.
'If you are out with friends, you should feel most comfortable with either a New Year’s hug or light kiss on the cheek.
'If it looks like someone is coming straight for the lips, you can politely turn your ahead and accept the kiss on the cheek.
'Simply wish them a Happy New Year and choose to move on to another friend.'
BE CAREFUL ON SOCIAL MEDIA
New Year's Eve might seem like the perfect Instagram opportunity, but Ms Lamberg-Burnet warned it could be 'a high risk strategy'.
Posting a random photo without thought could impact your image or personal brand
If you settle on a photo to post, keep your friends in mind as they may not wish to be photographed, particularly in an unflattering pose.
STAY GLASS-FREE IN PHOTOS
Ms Lamberg-Burnet said your glass and food should be put to one side when posing for the camera.
To ensure a flattering shot, put on your best smile and stand straight to the camera, that captures the best silhouette.
PLAN AHEAD
Before you head out for the night, plan the best way to make it home safely.
If you are hosting a party and do not want it to go all night, you can schedule a pick up to get the party moving on.
'As a host, scheduling a 12.30am pick up is also a great way to officially say the “party’s over!”,' Ms Lamberg-Burnet said.
Daily mail Uk
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