Stil und Form Stil und Form - British Forces Germany

Presents
It is traditional in Germany to bring a small present for one's hostess. Flowers are
generally the most suitable present. When giving flowers, Germans Germa ns observe a number of
conventions, which are worth knowing. Give the flowers to the hostess h ostess on arrival
(normally by the man of a couple). Remove the paper wrapping before be fore entering the
house. If in foil, leave the flowers wrapped. Tradition has it that an uneven number of
flowers are given but not thirteen. Red roses and red carnations carnation s are regarded as a sign
of love. White flowers in general and lilies in particular are for f or funerals. Don’ Don ’t t bring
them to social occasions or when visiting a friend in hospital! A German hostess
will “display “ display” ” your flowers for all to see. A British hostess might consider having
some vases “at “ at the ready” ready ”. .
Alcohol. A bottle of Whisky, Gin or dry Sherry is a welcome and somewhat somewha t different
present from a British guest. It should be wrapped and might have ha ve a calling/visiting
Card attached if there are many guests. Germany has more than her h er fair share of wine
experts, so a degree of care is required when choosing wine as a gift.
Official presents. SLOs will advise on official presents. Senior officers should
be prepared to give and receive a small present when paying an official o fficial farewell visit. A
regimental print or captioned photograph could prove a good alternative alte rnative to a plaque, of
which many Ratshä Ratsh äuser user now have large collections.