The Etiquette of Formal Events and Dinner Parties at Home

Last updated on September 29th, 2025

Are you planning to host a dinner party, wedding rehearsal, or a graduation celebration at home? How do home parties differ from other venues in tradition and etiquette? There may be more similarities than you think.

Parties at home take skill in both organization and orchestration. However, Lisa Richey, etiquette expert, shares why these events are her favorite and how you can make them a success. There is something about the warmth of being in a home for a celebration, whether catered or completely prepared by you.

Dinner Party Etiquette Rules

1. The initial invite sets the tone for the party. Your first decision should be whether to mail the invitation, which Lisa highly recommends, or use an email invite such as Paperless Post. Also, make it clear how your guests should RSVP. Email is always an easy option, or including a phone number. If you are hosting a wedding, read our article on The Artful RSVP: Wedding Celebrations and Invitation Inspirations.

2. Certain guests may arrive with a gift. Express your gratitude and consider placing it off to the side. You do not want guests who did not bring a gift to feel uncomfortable. If you want to stay true to etiquette guidelines, handwritten thank-you notes are nice.

3. As a host, you may be very busy once guests arrive. Consider the importance of welcoming your friends and family by greeting them, introducing them as necessary, and offering to take their coats. Depending on the occasion, offer a beverage or appetizer. If you are not available, assign this to someone.

4. Conversation skills are a lost art these days. Spend time getting to know your guests by asking them questions. This is a key to becoming a good conversationalist. You become more interesting when you are interested in someone else, and your guests will remember you as being a gracious host.

5. If a guest contacts you before the party to let you know of a food allergy, do your best to try to accommodate their needs.

6. Take the time to create a prearranged seating chart. Consider guests’ personalities and relationships. You may want to mix up couples to encourage more engagement and spark more lively conversation. This is not as much about etiquette, but more about how you wish to arrange the guests at your table.

7. After dinner, you should have your guests socialize in the main gathering area. Serve a hot drink and offer a selection of sweet treats. This is always an elegant way to showcase the beautiful details of your luxury home.

8. As your guests leave, walk them to the front door, thank them for coming, and offer to help with their coats. Nothing leaves a lasting impression quite like a heartfelt farewell.

For more information on etiquette or how to plan your next party or family gathering, visit our blog or Pinterest boards.