Holiday Etiquette: How Much To Spend, How To Help The Host

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NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- It's time to brush up on your holiday etiquette so you stay off the naughty list this season.

From how much to spend on presents to how much help to offer a host, CBS2's Emily Smith asked etiquette expert Thomas Farley, also known as Mister Manners.

Is it OK to spend more money than agreed upon? No, some people will get upset about that.

"It's like you have something to prove and everyone else feels inadequate about their gift," Farley said.

What if the part host says no gifts?

"If they really say they don't want anything, then you honor that, and certainly what you do send is the flowers after the fact," Farley said.

Is it OK to bring an unannounced guest?

"I never recommend bringing an unannounced guest." Farley said.

What about the dishes? You go to someone's house and you offer to do the dishes, but they tell you no. Do you do it anyway?

"I think a lot of people struggle with that. Most hosts are very particular about their dishes. Take the hint, maybe offer to take out the garbage," Farley suggested.

When is it time to leave? If the host is cleaning up quickly or in their robe and pajamas, take the hint, grab your coat, and say goodbye.