Once, in a "former life", I drank moonshine at a company Christmas party. (I drank it, but someone else brought it!).

I know, RIGHT!! Moonshine? Really? Yep, I was in my early 20's and just trying to show off. No one else would try it...well, I did and I ended up in my hotel room with a co-worker (don't get the wrong impression here...a FEMALE co-worker, 2 double beds, sharing the room--it was pre-planned BEFORE the moonshine!) ordering pizza and diet coke at 2 or 3 in the morning, getting the pizza, stripping down and falling asleep. Plus, I had to be in the Christmas parade the next day...I'm thinking it was in the morning that year, but really, WHO KNOWS.

Now, because I work with a bunch of radio people and we were all young, it was cool. However, if you work in a bank or a mortuary---maybe not right?

Here are some tips on how to be the star at your office party.

HOW TO BE THE STAR AT THE OFFICE CHRISTMAS PARTY

Marie Claire magazine passes along tips to women who want to "stand out as the belle of the ball"...

• Mingle... a lot. As the host or the guest. In a room full of strangers, be the lady that makes an effort to spread good holiday cheer.
• Sip the spiked punch... responsibly. Bad things happen when the booze starts flowing.
• Guests of guests do not bring guests. Run it by the host if you're in a pinch
• Be honest with your RSVP's, and don't attend everything.
• Abide to the secret Santa price limit... seriously. Nobody likes a show off.