Holiday Outing Etiquette
Author: 2 Cents
Holiday Outing Etiquette
Dear Two Cents,
We’re planning a birthday dinner at a restaurant and inviting a crew of people. What’s the etiquette for birthday or holiday dinners for splitting the bill when you go out to eat?
Sincerely, Budget Conscious
Dear Budget,
Unless the invite says “We’re taking everyone out as a treat for so-and-so’s dinner,” the only expectation is that the birthday guest should have their meal covered.
Be mindful when selecting a venue to take into account your guests - not everyone can easily afford Waygu Steak and rare wines. Allowing everyone to go Dutch allows for those who want to splurge to do so, and those who are being budget-conscious to make those choices without added stress or resentment.
If you want to spell this out explicitly, you can say things like, “We’re planning a no-host dinner at such-and-such restaurant to celebrate so-and-so’s birthday - and we’d love for you to join!”
Sincerely, Two Cents
