Send all questions to [email protected]
If you spill something at a friend’s house, they should clean it up, right??
Accidents happen. If someone is having a dinner party or another sort of get-together, they should be prepared for a spill or two. But that does not mean you should not at least offer to help clean up. You are not at a restaurant where servers and busboys usually rush to the scene of a spill; you’re in someone’s home. If you’ve spilled, it’s your responsibility to notify the host and clean up your mess.
However, there are some instances when the host wants to clean the mess because the item you spilled on requires the cleaning to be a bit more delicate. Maybe you spilled on an antique rug or an expensive piece of furniture. In that instance, offer to help and then get out of the way. You’re just going to make it worse if you keep hovering, trying to help and apologizing profusely.
It’s also important for you hosts to remember that as upset as you might be that something has been spilled in your home, you’ve offered to host, and this kind of thing happens. Please do not shame the perpetrator. That’s a safe way to ensure no one attends any more of your gatherings.
I’m going to a Super Bowl party where I know there will only be beer. I HATE beer. What do I do? Am I just sh*t outta luck?
One thing you could do is inform the host of the data that shows very clearly that more and more people are choosing to drink wine at Super Bowl parties. I kid; that would be obnoxious. But you could simply email the host and say something like, “Thanks so much for the invite. I am so excited to attend. I’m not much of a beer drinker, so I thought I’d bring a bottle or two of wine — I hope that’s O.K.!” This will give the host a nudge to at least consider serving more than just beer, and might encourage others to bring wine as well. If it’s a group invite, respond to the whole chain. Worst case scenario is that you at least ensure you have a drink you enjoy. Just be sure to share; I’m sure there are other people at that party who’d rather drink wine as well.
Can I use Scotch in cocktails, or is bourbon more of a cocktail whiskey?
Scotch often has a higher-brow reputation. Many believe it’s only meant to be consumed straight, with no ice and just a dash of water. But it is absolutely a spirit that can be consumed on the rocks and even, dare I say it, in cocktails. In fact, there are some delicious classic cocktails that call for Scotch, including the Rob Roy, the Rusty Nail, and the Blood and Sand.
