How to be the Perfect Party Guest

Clink, clink! The holiday parties are about to begin. Before you head to your next bash, take some to find out how to be the perfect party guest.

Dress for the occasion. Nothing says class like someone who follows directions. If the invitation says cocktail attire, opt for a chic dress or dressy slacks. Whatever you do, don't show up in jeans or some other form of inappropriate attire. You will stand out, but it won't be in a good way.

Bring the host a gift. A bottle of wine, a candle, or some other small gift will make your host feel special. While it's not required to bring a gift to a party, it is a nice gesture and it does set you apart from the rest of the crowd.

Be on your best behavior. The best guests are well-behaved guests. Don't over indulge in alcohol, don't flirt with someone else's husband, and don't touch anything! You are there to enjoy yourself and so is everyone else, eat drink and be merry, and try to avoid gossip and politically incorrect conversations. It's a party for goodness sake!

Mingle. Even if you're there with someone, it won't hurt to be friendly and strike up a conversation. I've gone to some parties where I didn't know anyone and left with new friends. It's all about the people.

Don't wear out your welcome. In other words, don't linger. Once the party is over, most hosts want to clean up and get to bed. If you aren't going to help with clean up, don't stick around. It is gracious to leave the party when it's over, worrisome to stay past the fifteen minute after mark.