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 ]
Do’s and Don’ts of Dining Out with Your Dog
More and more restaurants are not only allowing, but encouraging people to bring their pets to lunch. I have noticed this trend in my own neighborhood, as well as when traveling in other cities. Four legged friends of all shapes and sizes are busy soaking up the sunshine near their owner's feet. A ... [ Read More ]
Easter Table Dining Etiquette
The Easter Bunny will be hopping into your home this Sunday and whether you are hosting a large family dinner or a special dinner for two, exercising a few dining etiquette rules will make the experience even more pleasant and enjoyable. Celebrate Magazine and Southern Lady Magazine offer some ... [ Read More ]
Dining Etiquette: How to Turn a Restaurant Faux Pas into a Successful Meal
You've invited your best client out for an impressive business meeting at your favorite lunch spot. In spite of your best efforts in advance, things start off on the wrong foot. You are seated near the restroom instead of the table you requested by the window. As you reach for the bread basket, you ... [ Read More ]
Dining Etiquette: What Is a Service Plate?
This morning on We Are Austin (KEYE-TV, CBS) Chris Saldana, Allison Miller and I discussed awkward Valentine's Day dining moments. After the show we received several follow up questions, and a few regarding a “service plate”. While we didn't have one set up on the set this morning, I thought it ... [ Read More ]