Most people address each other by their first names and greet each other with a handshake.
Although on some occasions, such as business meetings and formal functions, it is expected to use a person's title and last name. A casual and relaxed atmosphere generally will accompany social situations, and so as long as you observe common courtesy you shouldn't be in danger of offending anyone from any background. Americans are very friendly on a casual level and you'll find that striking up conversations is generally relaxed and easy. If you are invited to a social event at somebody's house, good manners suggest a gift of some variety, a bottle of wine, cut flowers or a box of chocolates, nothing too extravagant. Tipping advice Throughout America tipping is more or less compulsory.