Believe it or not, not all conventional etiquette rules for the holidays still apply.
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When it comes to holiday traditions, Southerners can be real sticklers for the rules.
However, Southern experts say that not all conventional etiquette rules for the holidays still apply.
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In many 21st-century Southern households, families are forgoing strictetiquette protocolsthat have become outdated.
Well, we humbly suggest a third reason.
As etiquette professional Maralee McKee puts it, The heart of the holidays is love in action.
Credit:Photos by Christopher Testani; Styling by Carla Gonzalez-Hart
So even if the rule is outdated, the crux of holiday etiquette never will be.
Plus, experts assure us that some holiday etiquette rules will never go out of style.
Here are etiquette rules that professional minders of Ps and Qs say might be negotiable these days.
Of course, each home and every holiday host has their own rules and expectations.
At the end of the day, its all about respect and gratitude.
Open seating can feel more like a buffet.
Choose whatever you like!
Plus, a kids' table affords the adults a bit of a break.
The holidays are about creating lovely memories.
With creativity, you’re able to create a memory-making tablescape with either.
Anyone who has hosted a holiday meal knows how much hard work it takes.
Holiday Dress Codes
For many, cozy and casual is the new normal for holiday affairs.
This goes beyond the dinner table and applies to what guests are expected to wear.
In the past, holiday parties often had strict dress codes.
You may have ditched the tuxedo but dont ditch the instructions in the invitation.
Be a good guest and dress appropriately.
Holiday Cards
If youve noticedfewer holiday cardsgracing your refrigerator this year, youre not alone.
Ultimately, the decision to sendholiday cardsis a personal one, says Carmichael.
Oh, and if you prefer to send an email or an E-card, that is also acceptable!
Decorating takes a lot of time, and life is hectic and unpredictable.
People want to extend the holidays by starting them as soon as possible.
If the host enjoys providing everything for guests, that’s fine.
These days, proper holiday etiquette may meansomething like a potluck.
This rule isnt exactly new, though.
After all, Mama always said to never go to someones home empty-handed.
Irrelevant Family Traditions
Likeetiquette rules, outdated family traditions can also be discontinued or changed.
It’s normal for [family traditions] to evolve over time.
People’s lives change, family dynamics shift, and practical considerations come into play.
Its important to honor the past while introducing the new, says Carmichael.
Remember, the goal is to create holiday traditions that bring joy and meaning to your family.
Abbott recommends starting with an open and honest conversation and being open to compromise.
