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Social Butterflies

Feeling anxious about the party season? Five hints for mingling with ease.

Some can’t wait for the holiday invitations to start rolling in, but others cringe at the thought of small talk and unknown faces. We asked local etiquette expert Lucille DeClemente of LDP in Warwick for a few quick tips on working the room.

1) Greet and thank the host before bee-lining for the food or a familiar face. 2) When you are introduced to someone, respond with a comment, such as “It’s a pleasure to meet you,” instead of saying just “Hi.” 3) Prepare yourself for chit chat by knowing something about the event and other guests who might attend. 4) Practice introducing yourself to a mirror so you’ll be relaxed when you make your first impression. 5) The quickest way to win anyone over involves no talking at all. Listen (really!) when others are speaking and contribute only if you have something noteworthy to say.... Maybe shy types are the best minglers after all. —Nicole Maranhas
 

Illustration by Aaron Meshon