Journal · Advent & Celebrations
A Christmas party without a partner?
In November the invitations start arriving: the company Christmas party, an embassy’s Advent reception, a client’s year-end gala. And so often there’s that little line again: „partners welcome“. For many women – especially those who’ve recently moved to Vienna for work – that’s when the anticipation gets a small dent. A few thoughts – and some honest tips.
Going alone is perfectly fine
First things first: nobody expects you to bring someone. Plenty of people come to the company Christmas party on their own, and you usually know half the room anyway. A few things make the evening easier:
- Arrive with a colleague. Walking in together takes the edge off the first few minutes.
- Make the most of the welcome drink. Before dinner everyone mingles freely – the best moment to join the people you’d like to sit with.
- Have a topic or two ready. Holiday plans, the loveliest Christmas market in town – everyone has something to say.
- Plan your way home. Knowing when the last U-Bahn leaves makes the evening far more relaxed.
When it’s easier as two
Some occasions are made for couples: a formal gala with a seating plan, a Christmas dinner hosted by senior management, a reception at an important client’s. You’re introduced to new people all evening – often in a language that isn’t your first – and between the main course and dessert it’s lovely to have someone at your side who keeps the conversation flowing, and with whom you can laugh about the evening on the way home.
A little festive etiquette
- Reply early. If you’re bringing a plus-one, say so in good time – seating and menus are planned carefully.
- Respect the dress code. „Festive“ usually means a cocktail dress or an elegant trouser suit. When in doubt, a little more elegant rather than too casual.
- Agree on your story. If you come with a companion, decide beforehand how you’ll introduce him. „A good friend“ is perfectly enough.
A plus-one for the evening
When your friends are fully booked themselves in December, there’s a charming alternative: der Freizeitmann. A warm-hearted gentleman with humour and good manners who accompanies you on a purely social basis – not an escort, not a dating service, simply pleasant company who adapts to your colleagues, clients and hosts, in English or German.
Beforehand we talk through who will be there, how we’ll introduce ourselves and what matters to you. Evenings in Advent book up quickly, so it’s worth asking early. You’ll find more in the FAQ and on the pages for Vienna and Salzburg.
Sometimes a beautiful evening is simply more beautiful when you don’t spend it alone.
