Navy welcomes its ladies in style. I had my welcoming party in a BEAUTIFUL restaurant that really floored me. I was invited with a lovely bouquet and a hand written card by my hubby's boss' wife with the whole officer's company and their ladies applauding. As a young girl out of college, it was a huge thing for me! They did manage to impress me with all the pomp and style. :)
Dressing up for a party is no big deal. If the party is in a restaurant just dress comfortably, sleep well in the afternoon (parties tend to go late into the night), don't think too much about how people are going to treat you (they are usually very nice) and give positive affirmations to yourself (if you are the shy kind).
If the party is on board a ship be sure to read these tips.
* No high heels. There are too many ladders, ramps and dented (for a purpose) floors in the ship. You might end up twisting your ankle or worse, feeling foolish in front of everyone. Wear flats.
* If you are already comfortable climbing the steep stairways in a ship then go with a saree. But if this is the first time on board then this is not the time to show off all your wedding collections. Pick a suit/ jean with a beautiful top. Just don't go with something that flows all over the place or requires you to hold it with your hand. You need both your hands to climb up and down with dignity. Trust me.
* Salty ocean air makes your face oily after sometime. Have wet tissues / hand kerchiefs dabbed with powder / compact along with you.
* If its summer then don't make the mistake of leaving your long hair down your back. You will sweat like crazy. Tie your hair up in a pony or get a stylish bun done in the beauty parlor.
* Keep yourself hydrated with the juices they serve on board. Don't think about dieting just now. Having a juice in hand comes handy when there is nothing interesting to converse with the lady sitting next to you.
* Once you are on board, make it a point to greet everyone with a friendly smile and a "hello". Thank the sailors serving food for you.
* When your husband takes you around to be introduced to different officers, have a warm smile and be sure to answer only questions directed at you. Don't jump and start a conversation until you are adept at reading the rank of the person(through the stripes they wear on their shirts) and knowing how senior he is to your husband.
* Sit with the younger looking ladies. I always follow this precaution. I make it a point to greet everyone and make a beeline towards the young ladies. But many times I have been VERY pleasantly surprised by lovely ladies who are so humble despite their husband's high ranks and who actually make an effort to help you feel comfortable.
* Always keep an eye on your husband (who will be standing on the other end of the ship) to get any hints. Sometimes in a welcoming party you are the one to start the buffet and also the first to leave the ship. It would be a little awkward if you are not in sync with him.
Lastly be yourself. Don't try to be someone else. Hold your head high and be confident of the unique person you are.
