Potluck Etiquette 101

Tip #A

Bring enough of your dish that if you and your crew were stuck eating it as your only lunch (cuz that’s when potlucks tend to happen most often), there’d be enough to satiate the people in your group.

Tip #B

Don’t hoard.  The person behind you may want some too.

Tip #C

If you didn’t bring a dish to share, then wait at the end of the line.  Unless, of course, you happen to be the guest.  Then go first by all means.

Tip #D

Always leave the last piece (or bite) for someone else.

Tip #E

Don’t lick the serving spoon.

Tip #F

Allow your children to sneeze and cough all over the food.  That way you’re sure to get what you want.  Or give an extra helping of germs on the side.

Tip #G

The best stuff is always homemade.

Tip #H

If you sneak Jello into your dish, don’t expect any leftovers.

Tip #I

Share the scraps.  You might go home with a more well-rounded meal for tomorrow if you do.

Tip #J

Start small.  You can always go back for seconds again and again.  And again.  Wait, that’s fourths, but who’s counting?

Tip #K

Always have a written note next to your dish, stating what it is, how much is one serving, nutritional stats, and the list of ingredients.  Of course, highlight if there are any nuts, dairy or gluten.

Tip #L

Never eat more than you brought.

Tip #M

Children should go last.  They need to learn they are not the most important people in the world. 

Tip #N

Parents should go first so they have time to feed themselves before the Chicks start peeping for their vittles.

Tip #O

If space allows, always have two lines instead of one.

Tip #P

Remember, it’s all about the food.  Uh, I mean fellowship.

Tip #Q

Use reusable everything.  Only, wash between uses.

Tip #R

Skip the Koolaid.  Water is the best drink.  Straight from the tap, not from bottles.

and lastly, Tip #S

It’s ok to dig in first.  Someone has to break the bread.

Any more tips out there?

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