DO bring something with you or ask the host what you may bring. This could be a gift, a bottle of wine or maybe flowers. Also, you should arrive on time - being late without a great reason is just rude!

DON’T bring your own food with you, (unless it’s a dessert which it’s sometimes okay to bring). You shouldn’t overstay your welcome - leave shortly after finishing dessert/drinks. Maybe the people you are with don’t want to stay up as late as you do. 

WHAT TO WEAR...

DO ask your host about the dress-code.  This is a MUST! - otherwise how’ll you know what to wear? A tip is: if the dishes being served are ‘fancy’ then wear something ‘fancy’, like a suit or a formal dress.

DON’T turn up in a t-shirt unless you don’t want to be invited back. Don’t wear shorts, trainers or really short dresses because it’s just not appropriate. If it is a garden dinner party, a more relaxed dress-code would be fine - but still don’t wear a t-shirt!

THE ART OF CONVERSATION...

DO think of some topics to talk about before you arrive You'll have to find out what you have in common to talk about with the host. Do your best to keep the conversation flowing.

DON’T discuss topics like politics because the conversation might get awkward. You don't want to make the mood miserable. It’s okay to discuss sports, holidays and hobbies though. 

EATING AND DRINKING....

DO take your time eating. Use the cutlery for EVERYTHING! If you are finished your drink, you must also wait for the host to refill your glass. It's polite.

DON’T leave a lot of food uneaten on your plate as this could offend the host. Also, never check your phone during dinner! Never.