It’s that time of year again!
Families travel from all across the world to reconnect with one another over sweet barbeque, Bingo games, black and white photographs, and water balloon tosses. Whether you haven’t seen your family in years, or you attended a gathering just last week, keep these etiquette tips in mind for this year’s family reunion.
Leave Some Past in the Past: While half the fun of family reunions is sharing the fond memories you have of one another, it’s best to only share stories that cast one another in a positive light. Telling all the children about the time their grandfather got mustard all over his favorite suit is funny; telling the children about his struggle with alcoholism is not.
Don’t Hog the Food: Another perk is the delicious variety of home cooked “secret family recipes” available. Make sure everyone gets a chance to enjoy your grandmother’s potato salad and your cousin’s extra-chocolaty brownies by only taking one serving, and making sure everyone has been served before you grab seconds.
Watch Your Alcohol Intake: Too many drinks can lead to an embarrassing situation. Make sure that you’re in control of what you say and how you act by limiting your alcohol consumption.
Don’t Ask for Favors: Whether you need money, a job, or someone to watch your dog while you’re on vacation, the family reunion is not the place to bring it up. Save your requests for another time.
Keep Calm and Collected: Every family reunion has one relative who likes to push buttons. They’re the ones who point out your gray hairs, your weight gain, or your job loss. When faced with these individuals, just smile, nod, say “good to see you,” and then excuse yourself from the conversation.
