When attending a function for the first time, are you told proper etiquette,

[Forever young]

behavior, what to expect? I wasn't taught a darn thing about anything growing up, I am so unhappy with my parents. A lot of unneccessary mistakes were made going through life.

[ToryL]

You missed out on what is called a "cultural education." Something many parents are failing to teach, mostly in the last 50 years. A product of the "hippie" generation having children and not believing in social conventions. So they were not taught. So, you miss out how learning how to behave at social functions, what to wear, polite things to say. and "Dear Abby" gets deluded with letters asking, "what do I say to a neighbor who lost a family member?" because so many haven't even been taught to say, "I'm so sorry for your loss."

And no, most "functions" do not provide rules for behavior. But you find out pretty quick if you have behaved in an unacceptable way.

I'm sorry you are learning the hard way, but get "Miss Manners" book, she is hilarious and you will learn some good points.

Good Luck!

[pdevans1963@rogers.com]

Thats unfortunate and way too common. Thats why they wtite books on etiqutte. You are expected to know the way to behave before you enter any situation because it wont be on the invitation. the most instruction you will likely see on any invitation is either Formal Attire; BYOB or "pot luck"