Holiday Party Survival Guide

-Ali

The holidays can be an uncomfortable and pressuring occasion for new couples.  So how do you avoid all the awkwardness and get cozy without feeling too prematurely couple…ish? Here is a holiday party survival guide for you and your new significant other:

1. Be Calm….When They Pop The Question 
Be ready when the spotlight shines in your eyes and you face an inquisition. How long have you been seeing each other? Where did you meet? Is it serious? Smile and answer or dodge the question if necessary.  Perhaps you can humorously rehearse some possible answers on the way to the party. Whether you’ve been together a few days or a few weeks, the key to executing the perfect holiday interrogation is to get your stories straight. 
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2. Stay Sober…..As Long As You Can 
With drinks flowing around holidays, it’s easy to try to drown away the idea of spending your first holiday together with co-workers you don’t like. On the other hand, getting drunk and making out in front of your co-workers is probably not going to lead to flattering stories at the office cooler the next morning. So, be suave, and indulge in a little liquid courage without getting too booze-happy in front of your date. Keep it classy, folks! 
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3. Be In Control 
Imagine this: You’re arrogant, double-crossing co-worker has your date trapped near the punch bowl. You know they’re trying to steal your date in a quest to land a new holiday hottie. Make sure that you make it clear that you and your date may not be walking down the altar any time soon, but you are more than just friends. Hold hands, share a kiss under the mistletoe, post a few selfies, so everyone can see that you’re there together - as an official couple or not. 
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4. Don’t Leave Each Other Out 
It has taken you countless set ups and blind dates to land special someone. Don’t leave them to fend for themselves at the party, so be sure to introduce them to your co-workers. Join in on the party games and steer the conversation away from work or inside jokes whenever possible. This will give both of you lots to talk about with your family or co-workers making both of you feel more comfortable. 
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5. Compromise 
There are lots of occasions during the holidays when you are going to feel overwhelmed. But compromise is key to ensuring you survive. Going places together is a new adventure for you both. If your date went to your party, then go to theirs. Set limits for one another such as agreeing to leave the party by midnight or giving them a turn to be the designated driver. Don’t let the little things that make the holidays stressful become big problems later. Life’s too short for drama. 
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6. Say Thank You 
Take a moment after the party to thank your date for being there. Let them know that you appreciate them taking the time to meet your friends and family and that you look forward to doing the same for them. The holidays are a time to get to learn more about each other and set the path for great beginnings. If you end the holidays in each other's arms, then maybe it’ll be the same when the clock strikes twelve on New Year's Eve!