Everyone has an opinion. If you love Hugh Jackman (or Jennifer Lawrence, or Tim Burton, or anyone), someone else may not. And that’s okay. Check opposing names on your respective Oscar ballots, disagree over champagne and appropriately themed cookies, and move on. This is an evening for glamour, gowns – and friendly banter.

Know Amour from Argo. Even if you’re mainly there to critique the fashion, you should have a rough idea of what’s going on. No one expects you to be an expert on every single movie, but know the nominations. Missing this detail is like going to a football party and asking who’s playing. 

Avoid spoilers. On the opposite end of the spectrum, don’t talk about major plot points or endings unless you know everyone in attendance has seen the movie. (Tip: If you’re starting a sentence with “I couldn’t believe it when…” or something similar, you’re probably giving away too much.)

Chat during commercials. Speeches are sacred in awards-show land. (Remember Jodie Foster’s at the Golden Globes? No one would have wanted to miss that.) Be respectful and keep it down until there’s a break in the action.

But most of all – have fun. The biggest night in movies only comes around once a year.

By Jess Huckins, Staff Writer

What are your awards-party entertaining tips? Share in the comments below, or tweet us at @ruelala.

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Simply click the image below to open a printable copy, whip up a few batches of inspired cocktails (to fuel the friendly competition, of course), and let the predictions begin!

Find other awards-party inspiration (and plenty of appropriately themed treats) in our Best Supporting Style: Pieces for an Awards Party Boutique, opening Friday, February 8, at 11AM.

By Joanna Berliner, Editor

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