Debut Guides

Is it your first time to attend a coming-out party? Follow these tips so the debutante will only have fun memories related to that night!

DO take a moment to RSVP as soon as you receive the invite. Confirming your attendance will give the host a chance to work on the seating arrangements early. If you RSVP late, there’s a chance you might not get to be seated next to your friends or family.

DON’T bring a plus one. Check the RSVP card to see if you’re the only person invited or if you can bring a date. For couples and families, you can instantly find out through the invitation envelope. If it states “Mr. Jose and Mrs. Lina Cruz,” then it’s just you and your partner. But if it states “Mr. Jose Cruz and family,” then the whole brood is invited!

DO dress and look your age. Select a dress or a suit that will bring out your best features. If you have enough time, you can even have one custom-made for the event. As for your hair and makeup, find pegs that you can easily copy or ask someone else to do for you.

DON’T experiment with your look at the last minute. It’s okay to go the do-it-yourself route, but don’t wait until the day of the event to see if you can put falsies on or color your tresses by yourself. Give yourself two to three weeks before the party to attempt different makeup looks and hairstyles. And if it doesn’t work out, you still have ample time to book a salon appointment.

DO bring a gift. It doesn’t have to be an expensive one, but it should hold some meaning for the debutante. Make sure it’s something special if you’re chosen to be a part of the 18 Treasures!

DON’T regift your present. And if you’re forced to do so, take it out of the box to make sure it’s not personalized with your name on it.

DO greet the hosts of the party, even if it’s the first time you’re meeting them. A kiss on the cheek and a quick chat will show the parents of the debutante that you appreciate being invited to the party.

DON’T be late. You’re not the star of the party, so don’t act like one. Given the current traffic situation in the metro, it pays to leave the house really early for special occasions.

Remember that if the events venue isn’t filled up, it might take even later for the debutante to come out and start the program, forcing people to eat dinner at a more delayed time.

DO follow the clothing theme requested by the debutante. She will definitely appreciate looking at the photos and seeing your color-coordinated gowns.

DON’T hog the photo booth! Give other guests a chance to have printed mementos of the fun night.

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