Visiting French Homes
The Honor of an Invitation
Being invited to a French home is significant. French people typically socialize in cafés and restaurants, reserving home invitations for established relationships.
When Invited, Remember: - Arrive 10-15 minutes late (le quart d'heure parisien) - Never arrive early - Bring a gift (see below) - Compliment the home - Don't explore without invitation - Offer to help, but accept "non" gracefully
Gift Giving Etiquette
Excellent Choices: - Quality wine (unless you're unsure of their taste) - Flowers (odd numbers, not chrysanthemums or carnations) - Premium chocolates - Specialty items from your homeland - Books (if you know their interests) - Artisanal food products
What to Avoid: - Knives (suggests cutting the relationship) - Chrysanthemums (funeral flowers) - Red roses (romantic implication) - Wine, if dining with wine experts (unless exceptional) - Anything too expensive (creates obligation)
Cultural Context Box: The Flower Code
French flower etiquette is specific. Chrysanthemums are for graves, carnations bring bad luck, and red roses imply romance. White flowers can suggest mourning. When in doubt, ask the florist for "un bouquet pour mes hôtes" (a bouquet for my hosts).Dinner Party Dynamics
French dinner parties follow an orchestrated progression:
1. Apéritif (30-60 minutes): Light drinks, perhaps olives or nuts, conversation 2. Entrée: First course, often lighter 3. Plat Principal: Main course 4. Fromage: Cheese course (before dessert) 5. Dessert: Something sweet 6. Café: Coffee (after dessert, never with) 7. Digestif: Perhaps cognac or similar
Expect to spend 3-4 hours minimum. Rushing suggests you're not enjoying yourself.