As Canadians gather for festive celebrations, the potential for uncomfortable moments around the dinner table or at holiday parties can spike. Navigating tricky conversations and social blunders requires a deft touch, according to a leading Canadian etiquette expert.
Humour as a Social Lubricant
In an interview published on December 22, 2025, renowned etiquette consultant Julie Blais Comeau offered practical advice for handling those cringe-worthy holiday situations. Her central tenet? "You can use humour," she advises, highlighting its power to gently deflect tension without causing offense.
Blais Comeau suggests that a well-timed, light-hearted comment can often reset a conversation that is veering into contentious territory, such as debates over politics or personal choices. The key is to ensure the humour is inclusive and never at someone else's expense.
Strategies for Common Festive Faux Pas
Beyond humour, the expert outlined several core strategies for maintaining grace under pressure during the holiday season. Preparation is crucial. Anticipating potentially difficult topics or personalities allows you to plan neutral responses or graceful exit lines from a conversation.
Active listening and showing genuine interest in others can also steer interactions toward safer, more positive ground. If a direct conflict arises, Blais Comeau recommends acknowledging the other person's viewpoint briefly before calmly changing the subject to a more festive topic, like holiday plans or shared memories.
Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere for All
The goal of holiday etiquette, according to the expert, is not rigid formality but fostering an environment where all guests feel considered and comfortable. This includes being mindful of diverse dietary restrictions, traditions, and energy levels, especially in multi-generational gatherings.
By employing tact, preparedness, and a dash of appropriate humour, hosts and guests alike can focus on the season's joy and connection. Julie Blais Comeau's insights provide a valuable toolkit for ensuring the holiday spirit remains intact, even when conversations get tricky.
