Introduction Etiquette

Introduction Etiquette: There is no impression like the first impression so start the way you mean to go on. Cressida B. Bell shows you how.

You have just arranged your perfect vintage party. You are all dressed up in your perfect vintage party dress and in the kitchen are perfect vintage party snacks. All is well and you are ready to receive the guests.

But then suddenly you remember there is such a thing as etiquette. Party etiquette starts with a proper introduction.

Oh dear! What are the etiquette rules for introducing people to each other?

Etiquette question:

Can you tell me how to make proper introductions?

Answer:

Of course! The etiquette rules for a proper introduction are really very simple:

• A younger person is introduced to an older person.
• Men are introduced to women.

Mind the order! Age takes precedence over gender.

If you invited two friends (who are about the same age), one male and one female, you will introduce the male to the female. That means mentioning the female first: “Joan, meet Bob.”

If you invited a male friend and your father, you will introduce your friend to your father because your father is older. That means mentioning your father first: “Father, meet Bob.”

If you invited a male friend and your mother, you will introduce your friend to your mother as she is both older and a female. “Mother, meet Bob.”

But what if you invited your father and a female who is younger than your father. She is female, but he is older. Age inspires respect and in matters of introduction etiquette age takes precedence over gender. So you will introduce your female friend to your father. “Father, meet Joan.”

Now you know the etiquette rules for a proper introduction and everyone can enjoy your party.

~Cressida B. Bell