Thanksgiving Etiquette: 'It's A Time To Use Our Best Manners'
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- As folks prepare for their Thanksgiving feast, many will give thanks for friends and family -- if they're not driving us crazy by the time we cut the turkey.
"It's a time to use our best manners," said Lisa Richey, founder of the American Academy of Etiquette in Wayne, Pennsylvania.
She says it starts with being prompt. So, what's worse: arriving late or too early?
"If the host says 2 o'clock, arrive at 2 o'clock," explained Richey. "It's just as inconsiderate to be 10 minutes early."
Richey says in most cases the host will be busy finishing up last minute tasks, with very little time to entertain. So, it's important to give them space.
Translation: Stay out of the kitchen!
"Especially if you're not willing to help," said Allegra Massaro of Philadelphia.
We all know the type.
"They're just standing around, moving stuff, and you're like, 'I needed that,'" added Nicole Polaski of Northeast Philadelphia.
Kate Helm chimed in, "They're hoverers. They hover."
Hosts go through quite a bit of trouble. So, when they ask you to "just bring yourself."
"I think it's always a good idea to have a little something. It doesn't have to be extravagant. Maybe a candle, a coffee table book, hand drawn photos from your children," said Richey.
Speaking of common courtesy, let's talk clean-up.
"According to the etiquette books, if you're hosting, you shouldn't allow guests to clean," explained Richey.
Jennifer Genna of West Grove wasn't having it.
"Were not that fancy," she said.
Greg Rivers of North Philadelphia agreed.
"If you want to go to bed on time, I think you should accept," he said.
