[itooshallpass]

I could use some advice navigating the social norms of office parties. I don’t get out much and never have. Now I work in a small firm in a resort town where people like to have a good time lol. Our belated holiday party is this week at a restaurant, and they said drinks at 6, dinner at 6:30. I don’t drink, which everyone knows because we’ve gone out to lunch for people’s birthdays. I realize drinks are a social thing though and I don’t want to seem rude; would it be weird if I showed up for drinks and didn’t drink, or would it be appropriate to just show up for dinner?

[ruggercpa2b]

I think its totally fine to show up for drinks since its more of just socializing. I would just maybe get a club soda or something. Thats what I did when I decided not to drink. That way I had something in hand and just socialized with everyone else.

AUD - 73, 72 retake 7/2/2016
BEC - 8/20/2016
REG - TBD
FAR - TBD

I am so ready for this nightmare to be over. Been at this way too long.

[itooshallpass]

That seems reasonable. But the email also said “Drinks (beer and wine only)” so I'm not sure what to make of that haha. I guess it means no ordering fancy cocktails or anything.

[Recked]

I would assume they would have water or soda available.
Beer and Wine generally means no hard liquor, so people don't get too shitted up and make a fool of themselves.

[CPAfit]

@itooo Well it's always a good thing to discuss it with a colleague regarding the Drinks policy. Otherwise I think it's just normal and you should be fine, as you want to socialize and not be rude.

[JMG]

“shitted up” is my new favorite drunk term.

But yeah, as long as you are having fun with your colleagues it really doesn't matter what you drink. Getting an “imitation” cocktail is definitely a good idea so you don't get singled out and feel uncomfortable explaining why you don't partake.

[Anonymous]

I don't drink either and folks don't even bat an eye – they are too focused on themselves. But I drink coke with lime so it just looks like a virgin Cuba libre!

I doubt your office is trying to make you drink with the “Drinks (beer and wine only)” on the invite so go and have fun!

[aaronmo]

Just bring some weed for everyone and you're fine.

[Tim]

LOL they would never force you to drink beer or wine. That definitely means no hard liquor. You're more than welcome to go and drink water or soda and I don't think anyone will judge you for it.

[itooshallpass]

Haha thanks guys. I'm not much of a partier obviously 🙂

[Go.For.Broke]

@itooshallpass Show up for the “drinks” portion and don't drink if you don't want to – get a water or a coke/tea. It won't be rude. Anyone who thinks it's rude has the wrong attitude. Go in order to socialize and build strong relationships with your co-workers. I wouldn't hesitate to go, even if I didn't drink (socially).

[Go.For.Broke]

@itooshallpass Show up for the “drinks” portion and don't drink if you don't want to – get a water or a coke/tea. It won't be rude. Anyone who thinks it's rude has the wrong attitude. Go in order to socialize and build strong relationships with your co-workers. I wouldn't hesitate to go, even if I didn't drink (socially).

[Author]

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