You know, I post a lot about hosting and entertaining, but it's just as important to know how to be a good guest. As much as I love hosting, I enjoy being a guest just as much. After all how nice is it to deprive people I like of the joy of hosting?

But some people are uncomfortable with being a guest, so here are some of my pointers for being a great guest:

• DO RSVP, preferably in some written form (even text or email). Your hosts need to know that you are coming and it helps if they don't have to rely on their memory of a phone call.
• DO tell your hosts if you have a food allergy. No one wants to interrupt a lovely dinner party with a call to 911. Note: I hate Brussels sprouts is not a food allergy.
• DO bring or follow up with a small gift or a note.
• DON'T bring food or drink that you expect to have served (unless you were asked to bring it). It's fine to bring a bottle of wine or a box of chocolates for your host, but don't expect that it will find it's way to the table. Most hosts have planned the menu to balance flavors and your contribution isn't part of it.
• DON'T insist on helping in the kitchen if you've been told no. Sometimes, extra folks in the kitchen just make things more difficult.
• DO offer to help though. Just take no for an answer.
• DO engage in polite conversation with your fellow guests. Take a look at headlines before you leave the house so you have something to talk about.
• DO go into the party preparedto have a great time! It's amazing how much of a difference a good attitude makes!

Anything you'd like to add?