The Arrival

There are steps you can take to make arriving at a party less stressful and more fulfilling.

Have a Purpose

One of the issues with parties, unless you’re the most gregarious of extroverts, is that feeling when you’re about to walk into one but don’t know a single person there. Or perhaps you’re only vaguely connected to the host, who will surely be busy hosting. 

But there’s a reason you’re going to this thing. If there isn’t, you should think about not going. But let’s assume you do want to go, at least a little bit more than you don’t. 

After you define your purpose, it becomes easier to set a goal for attending the party. Then you know what you want to accomplish before you have to leave. 

Find Your Ensemble

Party prep should involve what you wear. Pick a tried-and-true outfit , as opposed to something that makes you feel self-conscious or that you’ll be constantly adjusting. 

What to Bring

Daniel Post Senning, etiquette expert and the great-great-grandson of Emily Post, explained that “the classic rule is to show up with something in hand.” Nowadays, however, “you don’t always need to show up with something for your good friends,” he said. If you feel more comfortable arriving with a bottle of wine or a token of your appreciation, by all means, go for it. 

Arrive on Time, and Go Alone (If Your Dare)

There’s the sense that we should arrive fashionably late and with a posse of friends, but in fact, the very best time to get there is right when the party starts — before everyone is ensconced in conversations and you find yourself in the position of having to work your way into established groups. If you can bear it, go solo, and watch the other guests make a beeline toward you.