Are Birthday Dinner Etiquette Rules Getting Out of Hand?

Whew! Y’all are starting to get really strict around here when it comes to birthdays.

Lately, birthdays have evolved from a simple celebration to a strategically planned event with a handful of rules for the attendees. While it’s understood that the birthday person is the main character and should be treated as such, the world has now added a list of expectations that range from specific dress codes to proper dinner etiquette, causing tension amongst some friend groups.

For some, birthdays are more than just receiving gifts and being loved on; they’re about creating memorable experiences with friends and family. To ensure that the perfect moment is captured, many birthday hosts will implement rules to create a certain atmosphere and maintain a specific aesthetic. One common rule for birthday events is the establishment of dress codes. These dress codes are typically designed to ensure everyone fits the overall theme, but as of recently, the dress codes have become a way to ensure no one upstage the birthday person. By setting these guidelines, the birthday host can control the overall look of the celebration to make sure all eyes are on them.

Another expectation that has become popular is the etiquette when attending someone’s birthday dinner. While the idea can be fun and fulfilling, society tells us there are unspoken rules that one should consider, particularly regarding ordering food. Last month, a conversation was sparked between social media users who debated on whether fajitas at someone’s birthday dinner is appropriate after a TikToker posted a video clip from her birthday. In the video, the creator wrote on the screen, “My bf ordered fajitas at MY birthday dinner. ON MY BIRTHDAY??? Go ahead the spotlight is yours [I guess].”

What made the situation worse was when the waiter brought out the sizzling fajitas, which garnered a slew of “oohs” and “ahhs” from the other guests at the table. Before the video ended, someone else can be heard telling the man, “Oh my god, you win the night!”

@_cest_la_vie_._

ON MY BIRTHDAY??? Go ahead the spotlight is yours ig #chilis #fyp

♬ original sound – cestlavie

Of course, the video attracted some attention from other users who gave their opinions on the dinner option. Another creator decided to chime into the conversation, adding that ordering fajitas at someone’s birthday dinner is not only her “biggest pet peeve” but also “the most disrespectful thing that you could possibly do at somebody’s birthday dinner.”

@ashadaviid

Like this is Bday etiquette 101 #fypage #birthdatdinner #EasyE

♬ original sound – Asha

But, why is this an issue? According to many social media users, ordering certain foods can bring a level of appeal to the person who makes the order. For example, fajitas are usually the first meal to come to the table since they don’t take long to cook. As a result, the person who ordered the meal will unintentionally attract a specific amount of attention they were not expecting, taking away from the birthday person.

Nonetheless, birthday rules may cause some added stress, but they’re ultimately designed to make sure the birthday person is having a good time and enjoying their special day. While some expectations might be overkill, it’s best to respect the guidelines set or respectfully inform the birthday person that you will not attend the event. After all, birthday celebrations are about highlighting another year and basking in the love you receive.