Former royal butler reveals biggest etiquette mistakes people make at Christmas

Former royal butler Grant Harold has shared the biggest etiquette mistakes people are making at Christmas time, from when to send thank you cards to double-dipping

Every family has their own Christmas traditions, but according to an etiquette expert, there’s a right and wrong way to do things.

Former royal butler and etiquette expert Grant Harold has revealed the biggest mistakes people make when it comes to Christmas.

Although Christmas is a time to spend with family, it’s also a time where Bailey’s-fulled bickering can break out.

To ensure this year happens with out any pitfalls, Grant, in collaboration with Betway, has compiled a list of things you should be doing to avoid the biggest faux pas this festive season.

Follow these and hopefully you won’t be to blame for any potential arguments.

1. Don’t lick your fingers or double dip

According to Grant, you should always “behave with grace and decorum”. This means no finger-licking and eating a canapé, don’t double-dip and always use a napkin.

2. Drink with your left hand

You should always keep your glass in your let hand so that you can use your right hand to shake for introductions.

3. Wear clean socks with no holes

Grant said: “Guests, make sure you have on clean socks with no holes, just in case your host wants all shoes removed.”

4. Don’t complain about family members to others

Even if a family member is driving you up the wall, you should never complain about them to anyone else.

5. Compliment the host

When you’re a guest at someone’s home, you should compliment them on their Christmas decorations, even if it looks like an elf vomited all over their house.

Also, remember to thank them before you leave.

6. Write thank you letters

It’s customary to send out thank you cards, and they should be sent no later than two weeks after Christmas Day.

7. Be prepared to host at short notice

If someone stops by for a Christmas surprise, you always need to have drink or food to offer them.

Grant said: “Always have a good selection of drinks in the cupboard, especially a selection of non-alcoholic drinks ready for unexpected guests.

“I would also suggest you keep a supply of canapés and some mince pies in the fridge (or freezer) so you will be a fully prepared host even at short notice.”

8. Don’t send Christmas cards too early or too late

You should send Christmas cards no earlier than December 1, and no later than December 21. And remember to always put the correct postage stamp on.

9. Don’t shake presents

Grant said: “Remember, we don’t shake presents as you may break a family heirloom.”

Do you follow these etiquette rules? Let us know in the comments below.