Mockup by Cali Adams
In recent years, Friendsgiving has become an increasingly popular take on Thanksgiving. It is a chance for friends to enjoy time together with their own rendition of Thanksgiving traditions and foods–taking the opportunity to celebrate friendship and the bonds which keep it tied together.
In the coming weeks, you may be hosting your own Friendsgiving event, be invited to one or perhaps, get the chance to do both.
Here are some things you probably should not say or do if you are a part of these special feasts.
First things first, do not show up empty handed!
A small gesture always goes a long mile. If you’re invited for a Friendsgiving dinner, one of the things you could do to show you’re thankful is arriving with a gift.
Whether it be a food item, a bouquet of your friend’s favorite flowers or a personalized gift, you have all the liberty with choosing. And remember, no matter how big or small, the intention matters most–the thought always counts. So, make it count!
Let the hosts play their part- do not try to take over the party!
Remember, a lot of time and effort are put into hosting group gatherings. Once the gathering is off to a start, let them enjoy the compliments and appreciation for putting on such a great show.
Validation makes people feel like their considerations were noticed and valued. Allow the hosts to make all the guests feel welcomed and enjoy your time there as a guest with the loveliest company around you: your friends!
Making insensitive jokes or bringing up sensitive topics is a big no!
Everyone has their own problems to deal with, including our friends. It is possible to sometimes get carried away when you’re busy having a good time, especially by cracking a joke or two. Always try to make sure what you’re about to say doesn’t intentionally hurt anyone.
Friendsgiving specifically is a great time to tell your friends how much of a blessing they are to you. Instead of saying potentially hurtful things, talk about the happy memories you and your friends have created over time and how much their presence in your life matters to you. Make the most of the opportunity Friendsgiving brings with it!
Catching up with your friends at a Friendsgiving dinner doesn’t include gossiping!
There’s a clear difference between catching up with a friend and gossiping with them.
It’s possible you see some friends you haven’t caught up with in so long and want to gossip, but a Friendsgiving dinner may not necessarily be the appropriate place for it.
Gossiping in general could awaken negative emotions which would go against the intention of being thankful and the purpose of having a wholesome Friendsgiving. Focus on gratitude and leave out the attitude!
Know when it’s time to leave–to overstay is not the right way!
When it’s with your friends, worrying about the duration of spending time with them doesn’t usually cross our minds. Considering it’s the holiday season, giving everyone some time to themselves and for their families is equally important.
You should have an idea about the appropriate time to leave the Friendsgiving dinner. Allow the hosts ample time to clean up and relax afterwards. These gatherings also take place during times when everyone’s family happens to reunite in one place, including yours! Make the most of this season and strike a balance between friends and family.
While having Friendsgiving etiquette is essential, make sure you’re aware of what you should do as well.
Clearly, there’s only one main rule: be expressive for the gratitude you have. Having people we can truly call our “friends” is a blessing we often take for granted. Take the opportunity of the Friendsgiving dinner and truly let your friends know how much you love them and why you care for them so much.
A Special Friendsgiving Note
All of my best friends are in different corners of the world. We don’t see each other too often, and I miss them all dearly. Since we happen to be talking about Friendsgiving, I want to take my chance and tell my own best friends how much I love them. Adrienne, Axl, Arhaan and Vedang: You guys mean so much to me. Happy Friendsgiving!
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