Holiday Etiquette: From tips to parties

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) —  Christmas is only four days away and you’re probably wrapping up those last minute gifts for your friends and family. But what about those folks who provide you with year-round services like your kid’s babysitter or dog walker?

There are several people who you should tip extra during the holidays if you already don’t tip during the year.

Cape Fear Cotillion Owner/Director Tracee Meyer said you can’t forgot those you make life a little easier throughout the year.

“You should tip peoople like your garbage collector, nanny or babysitter, teachers, daycare workers, maybe a dog groomer, hair stylists,” said Meyer.

Anita Ford has been working as a hairstylist at Bangz Hair Salon for 21 years. She said,  “Most people tip throughout the year but you can definitely see an influx in around the holidays. They usually give you a little more around the holidays. Some gives gifts and some just gift money and that’s fine too.”

Meyer says it’s not about breaking the bank.

“Just do what you can offer and if you can prefer not to give cash you can do just little homemade gifts,”said Meyer.

Some say homemade items are even better.

“In fact, one of my favorite gifts I got was a handmade ornament,” said Owner Christina Horrell, Owner of Purple Groomery.

There are a few people who you should not tip in cash including your mail carrier.

“Christmas candies, cookies, are always appreciated I think but you do have to make sure you know the rules. For instance, the United State Postal Service you can’t give them cash so you have to give them gifts that are under a 20 dollar value.”

She adds if you are planning on giving cash to someone make sure to put it in a card and write a few sentences thanking them.

Meyer says if you’re going to Christmas party to make sure you bring a present.

“Never show up empty-handed,” said Meyer. “You always want to bring a little hostess gift to the person who is hosting the party.”

She said items such as an ornament, a bottle of wine, or even a hand towel are great options. If not, ask the host if you can bring food to the event.

“Another tip is to know when to show, know when to go so arrive on time, not too late, too early, but don’t over stay your welcome,” said Meyer.

She says avoid talking about politics and religion.

“Stay off your phone,” said Meyer. “Your cell phone should be put away. If you need to take a call go outside and take it.”

After the event, Meyer says you should send a thank you card.

She said only bring the guest who are named on the invitation.

“If it’s only one of your children’s name then that’s who is invited,” said Meyer.

“Also, taking care of your kids to holiday party you just want to brush them up a little bit by making sure they know to make good eye contact, and the hugs some of the relatives they might not like hugging, and speak loudly and confidently. You may could role play with them a little bit and teach them how to answer “How are you?” “I’m fine, thank you, how are you?” and answer not one word answers.”

Meyer said, “I’ve talked to my kids about when they get their gifts not focusing on the gifts they didn’t get and focusing on being grateful and being thankful for anything they got.”

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