So many of us look forward to dining out, whether with a partner, group of friends, or someone new. For those raising little ones, the power and appeal of this time together is undeniable—being able to relax for a moment, savor your food and finally catch up on everything that’s been going on in ... [ Read More ]
Buffet Etiquette: 10 Mannerly Tips
"Eating at a buffet is like embarking on a flavorful adventure; every dish is a new chapter in your gastronomic journey." Perhaps you are attending a wedding where the food is served buffet style, or you have an upcoming conference with buffet stations for attendees. Or maybe you have summer plans ... [ Read More ]
Table Manners for Teens
I’m often asked how best to approach table manners for teens. It doesn’t matter what your grandmother taught you, or whether or not you have ever attended an etiquette course, there are some dining tips that will assist you and your teen. With a little practice and a lot of modeling, their comfort ... [ Read More ]
Spring Dining Etiquette Suggestions
Hints of Spring’s arrival are slowly emerging—it officially begins March 20—and the warmer weather opens up all sorts of dining possibilities. If you’re looking forward to a special meal, whether fine dining or something more casual, knowing what to expect will make you feel more comfortable and ... [ Read More ]
What Is a Charger Plate and How Is It Used?
Setting the proper table is a skill, and having an understanding of the small details specific to dining etiquette pays off when entertaining a guest, a client or an entire wedding party. One such detail is the charger plate. Many people are confused about the oversized plate that sits on the table ... [ Read More ]
The Etiquette of When You Should—And Shouldn’t—Send Food Back at a Restaurant
There are reasons to send back your food at a restaurant that make good sense, and then there are others that don’t pass the “mustard”. As we dine out more and more after a long pause, it doesn’t hurt to brush up on our dining etiquette. When can you feel comfortable that your request to send back a ... [ Read More ]
Why You Should Avoid Eating Lunch at Your Desk
Although your office setup may look quite different from just a few years ago—you might be working from home, or your workplace may have an entirely new configuration to keep germs at bay—you may still feel the pull to “work through” lunch by juggling your salad and your laptop at your desk. Perhaps ... [ Read More ]
How To Eat Tricky Seafood: Post-Pandemic Dining Etiquette Refresher
Oscar Wilde said, “The world was my oyster until I used the wrong fork.” There is definitely truth in humor! Many admit their social skills have gotten rusty from lack of use during the pandemic; it’s time to refresh and update our daily routine. Fundraisers, galas and basic business meals are alive ... [ Read More ]
Refreshed Dining Etiquette Tips Post Covid
According to the CDC, more than 161 million people in the United States are fully vaccinated. Understandably, people are anxious to get back to some form of normalcy. After social distancing for over a year and having to order curb service and take out, most people long to reconnect over a meal at a ... [ Read More ]
Post-Pandemic Tipping Etiquette
Many employees encountered layoffs and cutbacks during the pandemic. And many people began utilizing services such as curb service for their necessities and food deliveries for their daily meals. Those who could found it in their heart to tip generously in support of those working so hard to make ... [ Read More ]
Pandemic Dining Etiquette
The etiquette of the dining table has taken a different tone since the pandemic as everyone is much more mindful of sharing germs. Knowing how to navigate the rules of the table has always been an important professional skill. However, some of the etiquette tips that were once a gold standard have ... [ Read More ]
Finger Food Etiquette
When it comes to eating with your fingers, there are etiquette rules to determine when and when you should NOT use your fingers. Much has to do with culture and customs, but here in the US, there are some easy finger food etiquette tips to keep in mind. Have you ever been to a cocktail party ... [ Read More ]
Dining Out During the Pandemic
After months of heavy restrictions, many establishments, including restaurants, are ready to open up for business. Just because there is an “Open” sign on the door doesn’t mean you should walk through without taking some precautions. While there is no foolproof way to avoid potential ... [ Read More ]
4 Tips to the Perfect Everyday Table Setting
The kitchen is the heart of the home and the dinner table is where we gather with friends and family. So often we save our best dishes for special occasions and our pretty linen for the perfect party. Now is the time to start using what you have tucked away in cabinets and drawers. Make every meal ... [ Read More ]
Valentine’s Day Charcuterie Entertaining
If you only think chocolate when you think about Valentine's Day, you are missing out on some great opportunities to entertain. There are no set rules when it comes to a special Valentine's Day delicacy. This year try your hand at a creative charcuterie board for someone you love. One of my favorite ... [ Read More ]