When I found myself in a similar position, I always reciprocated with a gift (bottle of scotch for example). You may also want to take your friend (and wife, etc.) to a nice dinner.
Your friend wouldn't invite you if he didn't enjoy your company and could afford it.
One last thing, perhaps pair the "gift" to reflect the tournament - one day m/g versus three day m/g.

Hi Ben,

Enjoy your first "member guest" event. They can be great fun both on the course and off. I find them to be very great social outings.

I don't think a gift is necessary -- but you may wish to reciprocate by inviting him out to a golf outing with you and then you can pick up the green fees, cart, round of drinks etc.

In addition, perhaps consider buying the after golf drinks after the tournament (if that is what the format allows for - some tournaments include post golf drinks and dinner).

Part of the focus of many "member - guest" events is a "recruitment" type of event -- to introduce potential future members to the club. So don't be afraid to "look" around and get some insight into how the club operates.

As for other forms of etiquette, let your golf partner take the lead. Perhaps start the day off by letting him know that you are new to this ("member - guest" event) and that you will follow his lead on matters.

The rest is pretty basic etiquette -- just mind your "p's" and "q's" ... greet the staff and thank them accordingly.

Above all else, enjoy the outing and occasion -- at the end of the day its about the golf and camaraderie that goes with these events!

Hope you find some of the comments of use and I would love to hear about your experience Ben!

D.

I went to two last summer, both of them were my first. One was a one day member and 3 guests where I got my first hole in one :) and the next one was a 3 day member guest.

The 3 day member guest was a little tough for me, let's just say my partner had a little attitude problem and won't be doing it again with him if asked. Hopefully you're buddy is fun to play with.

I've had to pay for both so not sure what your situation is. If he is paying/treating, i would definitely hook him up with something. Gift card to the shop, beers, a few dozen ProVs. I'll put it this way, if it's a 1 day member-guest that's probably about 2-3 dozen ProVs. If it's a 3 day member-guest (not cheap), now we're talking driver, 3wood, hybrid or some Vokey's..

I'll leave you with this; have a great time and enjoy it! They're so much fun especially if you're playing with a good buddy. Play well!

After this comment how could I not invite you to play in my member guest? lol

Thanks guys. I can't wait.

its always nice to treat the fellow who invited you to member guest to a round

I once bought some used 712cb's from someone off craigslist. Since he kept delaying the meeting for the transaction, he invited me to play in his club's weekly tournament in Monterey. He covered the cost, so in return, I helped him win second place using those clubs. (first place was a pair of ringers...grrr. arrrg.)

Needless to say, he invited me back.

Honestly though, just be you, and offer to cover food (there is often a minimum monthly food/drink purchase requirement for members, so you help them clear that cost).

Also, bring cash for side bets, they might not have mentioned it, but there is usually heavy betting.

If you have any questions about conduct, just ask your buddy if there any rules you should know about so you don't get in trouble with the club.

Spud