Seeing Stars: Celebrity Sighting Etiquette Tips

Want to know what to do when you spy a celebrity dining out? We do, too, so we asked Lizzie Post, great-great-granddaughter of Emily Post and author/spokesperson for The Emily Post Institute, for her expert etiquette advice.

Here are her exclusive do’s and don’ts for OpenTable diners who encounter celebrities at a restaurant.

DO’s…

1. Do maintain composure. Yes, she may be as captivating in person as she is on screen, but hold yourself together, and keep your inner teeny bopper at bay.
2. Do make small talk. If you run into a celebrity at the valet stand, bar, or restroom, and it seems appropriate, you can make small talk (about the weather, the food you just ate, etc.). The trick is to only do it if it feels natural.
3. Do ask for an autograph politely. If you’d really like an autograph, ask in the right moment: Outside the restaurant, not during their time at the establishment. If you aren’t interrupting her time with the people she’s with, you may ask, again, politely, for an autograph or a photo. (Don’t forget to have your own pen and paper handy, if seeking an autograph.)
4. Do give praise. If you have a chance to chat, it’s perfectly acceptable to let a celeb know that you truly appreciate his work or body of work. Just don’t overdo it.
5. Do take a deep breath and remember that celebs are people, too. Most of the time they just want a moment with those they are close to.

DON’Ts…

1. Don’t interrupt celebrities while they’re eating — no matter whom they are with or if they are alone.
2. Don’t actively follow (i.e. stalk) a celebrity to any part of the establishment – restroom included!
3. Don’t ask celebrities any personal questions, try to slip them a script or piece of your own work, or make negative or questioning comments about their careers or projects.
4. Don’t stare – enough said.
5. Don’t take pictures or video of celebrities without their permission.

You can find more etiquette tips from Lizzie Post and the rest of the Emily Post Institute staff at Etiquette Daily.