What's the etiquette?

[BatRobin]

NC, because, well, it's embarrassing to admit I have zero idea over social etiquette.

DH & I have been invited for a 'get together' with friends at their house (not close friends, more aquintances) this week. I assumed it was an evening thing with drinks but while sorting details today, they text saying they expect us between 1-2pm.

The context is 'get together' - what does that even mean? Drinks? Drinks and food? What time would you expect to leave? I don't want to outstay our welcome.

Help!

If there's no booze, that sounds like a crap gathering. I personally would take a hip flask and disgrace myself

It's perfectly normal to have these things around lunchtime during Xmas- New Year.

Don't eat lunch first (but maybe a big late breakfast), expect to have some alcoholic drinks and fairly substantial snacks / canapés rather than full-blown lunch.

It would be nice if you bring a bottle of wine or some chocolates ...

and as Barchester says, when they start offering tea/coffee (or stop topping up your glasses) it's time to go home.

Do not bring a token fucking candle - there are some right idiots on here. I'd tell you to fuck off

a little harsh but I agree that taking a candle instead of a bottle of something is really weird

Text and ask. Honestly, no one will have a clue based on that invitation.

‘Hi Friend, looking forward to your do next week, should we have some lunch before we come? Any idea what time you’ll be throwing us all out?! Will happily fit in with whatever you have planned. Cheers, see you then.’

They may we’ll be doing a buffet or something more than nibbles so just ask and you’ll get it right.

Then enjoy. 😊

Why would afternoon do equal not wanting to see you? If they didn't want to see you they just wouldn't invite you. Clearly they want to spend time with you and get to know you better. The timing of the invitation just means they're not cooking Enjoy

I can't fathom being this worried about an invitation from friends close enough for you to have a 121 get together with.

If I was in your shoes I would just turn up and go with the flow - book a taxi when things seem to come to a natural end, obviously being sensitive to any cues and checking in as to their plans for later. But if I was concerned I would just ask!

To be honest normally if I have friends over then it's a pretty open ended invite - we've often had gatherings starting mid afternoon that have ended at midnight. But if I expected them to leave at a certain time I'd probably make it clear that I had plans at a certain time.

R's the taxi / being over the limit even one glass of home poured wine would put you over the limit do a taxi is a better idea.

We were invited to two daytime things this year. One clearly said 3-7 which was helpful in terms of timings!

A bottle and a hostess gift - chocolates / soap / candle / flowers is perfectly acceptable.