The holidays are the perfect time to remember friends and family with a unique and thoughtful gift. However, it's also easy to get caught in the holiday spending mode simply by scrolling through social media. How many monogrammed vests and holiday coffee mugs can you possibly order before your ... [ Read More ]
Holiday Tipping Etiquette
Every year, many of the same questions come up regarding holiday tipping. "Who gets a tip?" and "how much should I tip?" are commonly asked questions. The motivation behind giving someone a gift or tip is to show the person your appreciation for their service. It also shows you think highly of ... [ Read More ]
6 Appliances That Will Make Your Holiday Cooking Easier
As we prepare for the holidays, many of us will be faced with the task of hosting a holiday dinner. While being a gracious host means having food and beverages ready to consume, this can be quite a feat if you're cooking for a large group. Since space and time are often limited, dinner preparations ... [ Read More ]
How to Avoid Family Holiday Tension
While most people don’t go into the holidays with the intention of creating family drama, family dynamics are often fraught with peril. Old wounds quickly surface and family traditions are replaced with family strife. Old habits die hard and the same hot topics will no doubt rear their heads unless ... [ Read More ]
7 Rules for Meeting the Parents Over the Holidays
There comes a time in any serious relationship when the coveted invitation arrives: your significant other asks you to meet their family over the holidays. It’s an exciting milestone that can also be fraught with doubt – what are the parents like? How do they celebrate the holidays? Will they like ... [ Read More ]
Holiday Party Invitation Etiquette
Your holiday invitation sets the tone for your celebration. A beautiful invitation, received in the mail, lays the foundation for your celebration and answers all of the questions your guests need to know in a festive, articulate and straightforward manner. Here’s the message it should ... [ Read More ]
Fall Bucket List
It's Fall! Temperatures are dropping and leaves are changing colors. Cider is simmering on the stove and football season is in full swing. Pumpkins abound and pumpkin spice latte is the taste of the season. Everyone is thinking about creative ways to entertain. It's the perfect time to go start a ... [ Read More ]
Outdoor Entertaining Etiquette Tips
Celebrate the new season by tossing open your back door and inviting friends over to visit. The theme is fall and inspiration will come from pumpkins, gourds, cinnamon, spice and everything nice. Toast the season using items you have around the house. You will find your autumn seasonal ... [ Read More ]
How to Politely Fly Old Glory
With Memorial Day just around the corner, Flag Day on June 14th and July 4th right after that, the start of summer is the perfect time to remember the do’s and don’ts of properly displaying the American flag. Previously published on HuffPost. On any occasion, flying the flag is a ... [ Read More ]
Mother’s Day Inspiration
It comes as no surprise... Mother’s Day rolls around every May. But showing mom how much you love and appreciate her doesn’t have to drain you of your time or money. I recently shared my thoughts with USA Today on how to treat your mom to a special day without breaking the bank. Here are a ... [ Read More ]
How to Handle a Loss on Mother’s Day
You may have recently lost your mother or are simply missing her after many years of being estranged. Or perhaps she passed several years ago. No matter the time, or circumstances, the holiday does not get any easier when you watch your friends celebrate the day with their moms. Here ... [ Read More ]
Easter Table Inspiration from The Preppy Hostess
Molly Shapiro is an On-Air Culinary and Entertaining Expert. I have always admired her lovely blog, unique flair and delicious recipes. Her website, The Preppy Hostess, is one of my favorites and I have asked Molly to pass along some of her tips on creating the perfect Easter table. I am sure you ... [ Read More ]
17 Ways to Enjoy St. Patrick’s Day
It’s time to break out the shamrocks and enjoy the holiday weekend. Gather a few friends together and celebrate St. Patrick's Day, even if you’re favorite color isn't green. Here are some light-hearted ways to observe a favorite March holiday. A Treat for Your Fingers or Toes Add some ... [ Read More ]
3 Valentine’s Traditions That Are Always In Style
It’s not about the money, but how you celebrate. Valentine’s Day is only one day out of 365 and, according to a recent article on Investopedia, Americans are not only celebrating less, but spending less on this holiday. How can you celebrate without breaking the bank? Here are 3 Valentine's ... [ Read More ]
Movie Theater Etiquette
Catching a movie after a big meal is always a good way to retreat from the holiday frenzy. There are a lot of good films out right now, and it will be easy to find something you would enjoy. Here are a few etiquette tips to keep your movie night (or afternoon) polite and courteous. Buy Your ... [ Read More ]