9 Holiday Etiquette Tips All Southerners Should Know

Good manners and proper etiquette are always important, but they're especially crucial during the Christmas season. In-laws travel to town, Yuletide parties ensue, gifts are exchanged, and there are countless opportunities to commit a major etiquette faux pas. Yikes. But fear not! Southern Living Senior Homes Editor Betsy Cribb Watson sat down to share some of her tried and true holi-do's and holi-don'ts to help you get through some potential scenarios you may find yourself in this busy season.

To Monogram Or Not To Monogram

There's an old saying, "If it ain't moving, monogram it." That is certainly not the case. If your hat has a pom-pom on top, we say skip the monogram—there's already a lot going on. However, a monogrammed Christmas ornament can be a thoughtful gift if you know the recipient is a fan of monograms.

Social Media Etiquette

It's never a good idea to post photos of your Christmas presents online (unless it's a puppy of course). Otherwise, it's a bit, dare we say, tacky. Nobody is interested in seeing your new iPad, diamond earrings, or Louis Vuitton bag. If you want to post a cute photo of your friends and family, it's always a good practice to ask for permission. You wouldn't want an unflattering photo of you roaming the internet; give your loved ones the same courtesy.

Holiday Party Invitation Etiquette

It’s a busy time of year. Hosts will understand if you have other commitments. Whether you’re confirming your presence or absence, make sure to RSVP by the deadline. If you can’t make it to an event, there is a polite way to decline a Christmas party invitation; you just have to do it nicely. Something along the lines of "hate that I can't be there; hope you have a merry Christmas" is the perfect response. If you are invited by text message, a text message reply is perfectly acceptable. The same thing goes for email. But if you are sent a nice invitation in the mail, a phone call is the way to go.

Tacky Christmas Sweaters

Christmas is one of the few times a year adults feel like they can throw a themed party, so just be a good sport and participate! Make sure to keep attire appropriate for holiday gatherings.

Secret Santa And Other Gift Games

When it comes to holiday gift-giving games, it's important to stick to the set price limit. Otherwise, things will quickly get awkward. The fun is in the surprise, whether it's a gift card or tacky socks, and that doesn't need to be expensive or frivolous.

Christmas Card Etiquette

Instagram is the lazy man's way to send out a Christmas card. Don't do that. Friends and family really appreciate a lovely Christmas card in their mailbox (especially when holiday bills are also piling up).

Holiday House Guests

If you're staying the night at a friend or family member's house, it's totally acceptable to ask for the WIFI password (after visiting for a while). Be sure not to overstay your welcome, and don't expect the host to entertain you at all times. If the host is cleaning up, that is usually a sign you should hit the road. And, showing up with a simple host gift is a nice gesture.

Christmas Gift Etiquette

Every now and then, you'll get a gift you're not very excited about. That is the time to pull a Meryl Streep and give the best acting performance of your life. Smile and say thank you. If someone gives you a present, and you didn't get them anything, don't make excuses. Simply graciously accept. Of course, it's always smart to have a stash of wrapped, untagged presents for those situations. If you are in a situation where you are the only person receiving a gift, it can be awkward for other guests. Step into a more private space to open the gift and swoon over the generosity.

Wish List Etiquette

While sending out an unsolicited holiday wish list is a no-no, it’s certainly okay to provide gift ideas to someone who requests them. Someone who you don’t see often or who hasn’t seen your growing kids in a while may need inspiration or to know that the gift is appropriate. In that case, it’s fine to give ideas. Just don’t send them until asked and make sure not to overdo it.

Merry Christmas, y'all! And as always, keep it classy.