Party etiquette

[gilana]

I'm terrible about remembering to bring something to parties. I never seem to think of it until the last minute, and often there just isn't anyplace reasonable to stop on the way there. But then, I'm always vaguely surprised when people bring donations to parties I host, too. So I'm curious.

A) Would you rather skip a party than arrive empty-handed? Do you only bring something if it's convenient? Do you just assume the host has everything covered? Share!

B) How do you feel when you're the host? Do you notice who brings what? Are you offended if someone doesn't bring anything? Would you prefer people *not* to bring things? Share on that, too!

Comments

[hahathor.livejournal.com]

For bashes, my invites usually say something like "Feel free but not obligated to bring anything you think would make for a better party." Generally this works out well; we usually end up with about the right amount of food & drink, no matter how many people show up. And people will often interpret the invitation more broadly, bringing musical instruments, games, CDs, etc that add to the party. I notice if someone brings something awesome (like the time zarf brought caramelized bacon to one of my parties, guaranteeing that he will always be welcome), but other than that, I don't really notice who brings something & who doesn't.

If I'm having a sit down dinner, I don't expect, or usually want, people to bring anything. I get a kick out of planning a menu that is eclectic yet coherent, and it can be difficult to try to fit someone's contribution into that. Though bringing wine or beer (N.B. I do not consider Budmillors to be beer) to my house is NEVER taken amiss. Just in case anyone reading this is invited to dinner at our place.