Screamin’s Simple Party Etiquette Do’s & Dont’s
Simple party etiquette tips for men:
What to do when you are told “Don’t bring anything… just come and enjoy!”
If they say, “bring nothing,” and you decide to come empty-handed, show up and be helpful. Offer to help pour stiff drinks, clean up dirty plates or empty bottles, or wash and throw away paper plates. Even though you’re not bringing anything, you’re contributing by helping them enjoy the party they’re hosting. Your friends know you well enough to give you clear instructions without making you feel like an idiot.
To make a good impression and improve your odds of getting a future invite, I highly suggest not showing up empty-handed. You don’t need to bring much just think of something, a beverage, bag of chips or dip. I always have fun bringing something strange as it gets a good laugh. Every flavor of Pringles you can find, pork rinds, or Boone’s Farm Tickle Pink Wine (good luck finding it!) always goes over well. It shows that you’re not just freeloading.
Super Bartender Lori Hometz
What if you don’t know the host that well?
If you’re heading to a new friend’s place you’ve never met before, I suggest not showing up with just yourself. Instead, bring something you know the host will enjoy and use. Try giving them some treats from your Liquor store to enjoy after the party. It’s the thought that counts.
Gifts to Avoid
Flowers. You might as well turn your man card in at the door. Flowers may seem like a thoughtful gift, but don’t bother unless you bring them with a keg of beer.
Dave Moon enjoys some football food
Let the Host Know the Foods You Are Bringing to The Party
Nothing like overshadowing the hosts’ cooking and stepping on their toes by bringing a dish you expect them to serve that night. Plus how awkward if another friend brings the same dish. No need also to brag about how great your dish is. If it’s good your friends will tell you.
The Host may Have Limited Fridge Space
Always check ahead with the host to make sure they have enough room. Plus we live in Michigan, outside is also a giant fridge. If your bringing a lot of beer might be good to bring a separate cooler to help save space.
Screamin Famous Rubin Rolls
Food Suggestions to Bring
- Meatballs.
- Potato Skins.
- Sausage Rolls.
- Chocolate Truffles.
- Chicken Empanadas.
- Steak and Cheese Quesadilla.
- Parmesan Crusted Baby Potatoes.
- Chicken Tenders
Don’t Bring Your Pets to the Party
I know your pets are the most behaved in the world. But unless you have permission from the host of the party. Leave Rocky at home. Hosts do not like to be surprised by furry guests.
Just to sum up what you should do when a host says, “there’s no need to bring anything, just yourself,” just remember these screamin’ tips:
- Know your host before the party
- Be wary of what you’re bringing to the bash
- Don’t bring anything you wouldn’t bring to a party you would host.
- Be a good guest, help out, don’t get sloshed, and don’t drink and drive.
Healthy Michigan Chili Recipe
Step 1: Prep
Finely dice the garlic clove. Chop the onion and peppers into small pieces. I slice the scallions thin, but I don’t bother to dice them. Up to you to your personal preference on how you chop. Obviously, it doesn’t affect the taste.
Doni starts with fresh ingredients.
Step 2: Cook Veggies
Heat a small drizzle of olive oil in your chili (soup) pot. Add chopped garlic, onions and peppers. Cook on medium/medium-low for about 5 minutes.
Sauté with a small drizzle of olive oil in a large pot.
Step 3: add meat and spices
Once our veggies are softened and fragrant, add your meat. I like to add my spices right then too, but if you prefer, you can cook meat, then add spices. Bottom line, throw your meat, chili pepper, cumin, swerve (sugar-free) brown sugar, a pinch of regular sugar (cuts down on acid level in tomatoes), and tomato paste. Stir until well combined and the meat is thoroughly cooked. I prefer to use a wooden spoon when cooking. It’s great for breaking the meat up.
Add meat of choice and spices. Heat until meat is thoroughly cooked.
Step 4: Add remaining ingredients
Throw your two cans of Ro-tel, a can of tomato sauce, 1 1/2 cups of vegetable broth, and beans (drained and rinsed) into your pot. Stir well.
Doni uses Ro-Tel instead of canned tomatoes and low or “no salt added” products when possible.
Step 5: Simmer
Let your chili simmer (cook on low) for about 30 minutes. Stir, turn off the heat, and let it sit for another 5-10 minutes. I think this chili is great without toppings, but a little cheese and sour cream never hurt anything in my book. Enjoy!
Stir and simmer chili for 30 minutes.
Your Finished Product!
