No one wants to be left hanging when it comes to knowing what to do with their handbag. Whether you’re out with the girls or having lunch with peers, your purse is an important part of your wardrobe. How you handle the accessory can also be a telltale sign of your social skills. I am often ... [ Read More ]
10 Essential Holiday (and Everyday!) Dining Tips
There’s never a better time to brush up on your table manners than during the holiday season. Regardless of the formality of your meal, bypassing basic dining skills is never a polite option. From a professional setting to lunch with your family, you’ll feel better when your table manners are ... [ Read More ]
The Magic of Mountain Lodge Holiday Entertaining
Dining at a mountain lodge evokes an atmosphere of rustic elegance. Whether you live in a mountainous state, or far from it, you can achieve that lodge chic in your own home. Here are some simple ways to pull off the look as you enjoy an evening of warmth and merriment. Add natural ... [ Read More ]
All That Glitters: Adding Shine to Your Holiday Table with Glassware
As we approach the holiday season, I thought it would be helpful (and fun!) to get better acquainted with an array of glassware options you may want to include in your festivities. Let’s get started … Get party ready. It’s time to take inventory of your current supply of glassware. Determine ... [ Read More ]
Test Your Etiquette IQ: Everyday Protocol We Should All Know
I often receive emails and comments from people sharing what they have learned throughout the years from family members, friends and well-meaning mentors. Recently, a young woman mentioned her mother taught her to always order a small salad at a business meal, and never a regular entrée. I’m not ... [ Read More ]
Cocktail Napkin Etiquette: Summer Entertaining
One of my favorite indulgences is pretty cocktail napkins. They add an elevated feel to any occasion, especially when they feature a design that encourages conversation. Cocktail napkins are square, 5 x 5-inch pieces of good quality paper or cloth. They come in an array of beautiful designs and ... [ Read More ]
6 Strategic Dining Tips Business Professionals Should Know
This article originally appeared on Inc.com. Breaking bread is an important part of a business relationship that leads to trust and long-term success. An important job interview or high-stakes business meeting is stressful enough, but when conducted over a heaping plate of spaghetti, the ... [ Read More ]
How to Host an Olive Oil Tasting Party
You’ve likely attended a wine tasting party, whether the theme was based on selections from local winemakers or a French wine and cheese adventure, but have you been to an olive oil tasting party? Keep the wine on the carte du jour; add in some delicious oils and soft artisan bread for a tasteful ... [ Read More ]
FABLife – Southern Etiquette Challenge
If you missed the FABLife yesterday, I'm sharing a repeat performance on today's blog. You can watch the video clip here. Dedicated to everything Southern, the FABLife hosts, Chrissy Tiegen, Joe Zee, Lauren Makk and Leah Ashley, along with Linda Gray and Southern FABlife fan Rachel Upshaw, competed ... [ Read More ]
Planning a Thankful “Friendsgiving”
A flurry of delicious food, savory sides, and the perfect double layer pumpkin cheesecake have likely taken over your Pinterest feed lately. With all the culinary inspiration, you may be feeling ready to embark on a new tradition with your friends. A Friendsgiving gathering is a welcome addition to ... [ Read More ]
Holiday Dining Etiquette: How Do You Say Charcuterie?
With dinner parties on your holiday calendar, it may be time to brush up on your culinary vocabulary. Refer to the commonly mispronounced menu items below, and then take a listen as Chef Vincent and Chef Stephan of Central Market San Antonio reads them aloud for us. Then enjoy my segment on Fox 7, ... [ Read More ]
Holiday Dinner Party Checklist
People often shy away from inviting friends over for a dinner party because they feel overwhelmed with the planning process or do not think they have the right supplies. I have put together a convenient checklist to assist you in coordinating your Holiday Soiree. Four Weeks Prior to the Dinner ... [ Read More ]
Dining Etiquette: Who Should Pay When You Go Out to Lunch?
Of all the etiquette quandaries, this one is the source of much contention. It is a simple enough question: “When you are out to eat with co-workers, clients or colleagues, who picks up the check?” The answer depends on the circumstances, and there is no "one size fits all" solution. Here are a few ... [ Read More ]
Dining Etiquette Quiz
Today I’m answering a few commonly asked dining etiquette questions. Take this short quiz and see how you score. For the detailed answers, watch our Fox Austin video. 1. What is a serviette? A charger A soup bowl A table napkin 2. Where do you place your napkin when you leave the table ... [ Read More ]
Dining Out With Kids: Etiquette for Parents and Restaurant Owners
It’s no surprise that most people choose to eat out as a matter of convenience, enjoyment or necessity, anticipating an overall pleasant dining environment. They expect a relaxing atmosphere when they sit down to order, eat and pay for their brief experience. When a family visits a restaurant and ... [ Read More ]