With the holiday season -- and holiday parties -- comes a lot of stress. "What should I bring?" "What should I wear?" "Is it OK to bring a plus one?" "How do I know what to get the host?"
Generally speaking, we ask ourselves way too many questions and could all stand to bring it down a notch. But some holiday etiquette questions are legitimate, and in an effort to make everyone's holiday season run a little more smoothly, we asked drag superstar Delta Work to offer up some of her top holiday do's and don'ts as only she can. In her own words:
1. If you accidentally under-dress (or over-dress if that's possible), DO own it. No one will be uncomfortable with your attire unless you are. Act like you meant to wear it. In most cases the wrapping paper is going to get ripped off and thrown away, regardless. Get a head start for the after party.
2. When you encounter someone with whom you are on the outs, DO be cordial. Don't lay it on too thick but don't avoid them. Simply say hello and be content in knowing that the dog will be laying on their coat you knocked over earlier in the evening.
3. DO NOT forget to bring a gift for the host. It does not have to be expensive and, if it's a spirit or snack, it does not have to serve the amount of invited guests. It is a gesture of sharing and gratitude and should reflect the relationship between you and the host. (For friends with refined tastes, for example, consider gifting a bottle of Absolut Warhol Limited Edition.) In this way, the host will feel the spirit of the season and you'll leave with something you like when the host has passed out with his face buried in the rum balls.
4. If someone invites you to a party you don't have time for, DO feel free to decline. Spreading yourself too thin during the holidays will cramp your style and create a discord at the parties you feel obligated to attend. Choose the events that involve people who are mutually enriching and are likely to have Absolut.
5. If you are at a party with food you are not interested in eating, DO NOT eat it. Create an allergy to wheat, sugar, dairy or really anything. Everyone else does it and some are even creating menu items and full restaurants based around them.
6. DO NOT feign interest in a conversation any longer than five minutes or it will show. Look for something mutual to talk about besides the weather. If you cannot, remember key words in the conversation and pass them off to a friend to whom you also have no interest to speak: "Amy, have you met Diane? She was also the Top 8 in a graduating class of 10! I'll be right back!" And never go back.
Delta Work is an actor, director and entertainer. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/DeltaWork or www.twitter.com/theeedeltawork.
Enjoy responsibly. Absolut(r) vodka. Product of Sweden. 40% alc./vol.distilled from grain. (c)2014 Imported by Absolut Spirits Co., New York, NY.