This may not surprise you, for me it was our family meals.
I have the fondest memories, of my mother’s fried chicken and sitting around with platters on the table of homemade goodies. My mother was known for her southern cooking and not using a recipe- throwing it all together and hoping for the best.
A Loving Table: Book Review
When I first looked through the book, A Loving Table, these childhood memories ran through my mind.
I first saw the book at event hosted by Design Matters NC. I attended the two day event and it was a sight for my eyes.
The event was attended by many southern interior designers. Over 26 designers came together to inspire us with the most beautiful table settings.
This past weekend, I had the chance to finally sit down and read the book. Of course this was with a cup of tea and a side of chocolate.
I was inspired by the beautiful photography and also the stories told by those featured in the book.
Thirty style-setting women paid tribute to their mothers and grandmothers. They shared their stories of meaningful birthday parties and holidays around the dining room and kitchen table.
Don’t miss out on this beautiful journey into the refined and elegant world of entertaining.
Here is a FREE Guide to Help YOU Start a Business Teaching Manners to Children
If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOTself-guided.
PRIVATE Training. That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business. Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.
What can we do in our daily lives to return to the art of being refined?
I recognize the world has changed. We are more casual than we have ever been.
Adding a few small details can make us and others feel a bit more special.
Today, I am sharing my ideas on ways in which we can add actions to become more refined in our daily life.
Returning to refinement involves taking a closer look at a project, idea, or process and making improvements or adjustments to enhance its quality, effectiveness, or aesthetics.
If you are interested in the world of etiquette, then this article is for you.
How to Add Refinement to Daily Life
Personal Development: Continue to learn and adapt. Invest in ongoing learning and personal development. Read books, attend seminars/webinars, and take courses related to leadership, communication, and self-awareness. The more you learn, the more self-aware you can become. You also become more interesting and engaged with life. As an etiquette expert, it is important you continue to learn and grow in your field.
Friendships: Continue to foster your friendships and be open to new ones. Invite friends over for lunch, dinner, game night or coffee. Friendships add so much to our lives.
Communication Skills: After a conversation with a spouse, client or friend, take time to reflect on the communication process. Consider how you can improve your communication style, whether it’s being more concise, using more appropriate language, or enhancing your non-verbal cues.
Dress the Part: This is a big one. We certainly live in a more casual society but that doesn’t mean that we have to be like everyone else. If it is your true nature to dress up a bit – be more refined, then do so. Be true to yourself. Add the navy or blue blazer and wear with your favorite jeans..
5. Time Management: Evaluate your daily routines and schedules. Is it time to refine how you spend your time. Are you prioritizing the right tasks?
6. Set the Table: Practice using your table manners at home. Add cloth napkins. Sit down to family meals more often. Even if you are having your coffee or tea alone in the mornings, put it in a beautiful cup.
7. Your Surroundings: Add fresh flowers to your desk or in the kitchen. Tidy your desk before you leave in the evening.
8. Your Bedroom: Make up your bed everyday. This takes so little time and makes a big difference.
9. Thank You Notes: The first step is to write them and if you want to be more refined, then write them on a note card. If you want to take it the next step, personalize your stationery. This not only enhances the experience for the receiver but you as well.
Returning to refinement is an ongoing process that helps you enhance your personal and professional life.
Here is a FREE Guide to Help YOU Start a Business Teaching Manners to Children
If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOTself-guided.
PRIVATE Training. That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business. Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.
News Day (a New York based newspaper) recently asked my thoughts and observations about tipping.
This is a very hot topic at the moment.
Tipping Etiquette: What You Need to Know Right Now
There is a new tipping culture and many are questioning when is it too much.
You might be asking:
How do I handle when the screen is turned to face me and requesting more money?
What about the tipping jar at the dry cleaners?
Should I tip for a grab-and-go bottle of water?
Most of us have reached the point where we are either confused over tipping or have stopped completely (except at restaurants).
The Etiquette of Tipping
First, I think you shouldn’t feel guilty if you decide not to tip once the screen turns your way.
It is a judgement call on your part.
Traditionally, as Americans, we are accustomed to tipping servers at a restaurant. And many base that on the level of service received. Most of us tip between the 15-20% range.
Since many retailers have turned to the IPad (or screens) to process transactions and as a society we have become mostly cashless, tipping has become the norm or standard whether you are paying for a pack of gum or a salad to-go. Some retailers, such as dry cleaners and sandwich shops have placed the standard tip jar by the register.
The News Day article tells the story of a consumer going into a large donut chain, orders a muffin and the screen asks for a tip.
Many are asking when is enough. The article calls it ‘tip-flation’ or ‘tipping invasion’.
The Latest on the Etiquette of Tipping
Never feel guilty or embarrassed when tipping (or choosing not to tip). Do what you think is best. If you had good service and are feeling generous, then add a tip.
When at the register, there is not a need to justify whether you do or don’t.
Smile, make eye contact and be courteous.
I will continue to add tips when I go to restaurants.
Other places, such as the dry cleaners, grab-and-go’s will be on a case by case basis.
I do believe (see my comments in the article), ultimately the business owner needs to question the act of requesting tips. They need to consider the feelings of the consumer.
If you are interested in reading the entire article, click here.
Of course, always feel free to contact us directly or make a comment below.
We love to hear from you.
Here is a FREE Guide to Help YOU Start a Business Teaching Manners to Children
If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOTself-guided.
PRIVATE Training. That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business. Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.
Here are answers to our most frequently asked questions about Thanksgiving Etiquette.
Remember, Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and togetherness, so approach these etiquette questions with the aim of creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for everyone.
Etiquette Tips for a Happy Thanksgiving
Seating Arrangements: How do I decide where everyone should sit at the Thanksgiving table? Should I use place cards?
This is a personal choice. Some like to separate couples to encourage others to get to know one another. Personally, I like to sit with my husband during the holidays so that we can experience the feast together.
If you choose to plan ahead and make the decision of where your guests will sit, the idea of place cards is a good idea. Place cards add to the beauty of your table setting.
When considering the seating arrangements, you may want to put out of town guest next to someone they may not have seen for awhile. Put some thought into the placement of your friends and family.
Guest Contributions: Is it okay to ask guests to bring a dish or contribute to the meal? How do I communicate this without being rude?
Absolutely, it’s perfectly fine to ask guests to bring a dish or contribute to the meal, especially for casual gatherings.
Use polite language to convey the message. For example, “It would be wonderful if you could bring a dish, but of course, if that’s not possible, your presence is more than enough.”
Dietary Restrictions: How can I accommodate guests with dietary restrictions or food allergies without making them feel singled out?
Always ask your guests ahead of time if they have food allergies or something they don’t like. Do your best to accommodate them.
As a guest, you can communicate in advance that you have certain restrictions. For example, if you are vegetarian, offer to bring a dish and share it with everyone.
Thanksgiving Toast: Is it customary to make a Thanksgiving toast, and if so, when should it be done?
Offering a toast is a personal choice. Here are a few steps to consider when toasting.
The host initiates the toast.
Toasting is usually done when the beverage is poured and each guest has been served.
Raise your glass, smile and take a sip.
Seconds and Leftovers: Is it polite to offer seconds, and how should I handle leftovers for guests?
Yes, offer your guests seconds and encourage them to partake if they would like to have a second portion.
Technology at the Table: Should I encourage or discourage the use of smartphones, tablets, or other electronic devices at the Thanksgiving table?
Put your cell phone away during the meal. You can always check for messages after the meal is over but not at the table. Excuse yourself if you absolutely must check your phone.
If you would like to take photos of the table setting, do this before the meal begins.
Thank You Notes: Is it necessary to send thank-you notes after hosting or attending a Thanksgiving meal, and how soon should they be sent?
Always say thank you to your host. Going the extra step and writing a handwritten note is such a gracious gesture.
Bringing a Plus-One: Is it acceptable for guests to bring a plus-one without asking, and how should hosts handle unexpected guests?
Always ask your host before bringing another guest.
Tidying Up: Should guests offer to help with cleanup after the meal, and how should hosts respond?
Yes, offer to help. Only once. If your host declines, then honor that decision.
Dress Code: Is there a particular dress code for Thanksgiving dinner, or should guests wear what they feel comfortable in?
If in doubt, ask the host. This is not a time to wear yoga pants and a hoodie. Dress appropriately for the occasion.
Thanksgiving Etiquette Is Not About Rules
Etiquette is not about rules. Etiquette is about making others feel comfortable. Good communication and consideration for your guests’ comfort and preferences are essential.
Here is a FREE Guide to Help YOU Start a Business Teaching Manners to Children
If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOTself-guided.
PRIVATE Training. That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business. Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.
A menu card elevates a meal whether you are hosting a formal or informal gathering.
If you want to up-level your dinner (or lunch) events, then add a Menu Card.
Trust me, this will delight your guests.
Not only does it add beauty and interest to your table, it lets your guest know what to expect.
Often, when I use menu cards, my guests ask if they can take them home. It serves as a nice memory.
This one simple addition sets a beautiful tone for the meal and experience for your guest.
It is easy, I promise.
Creating menu cards for a meal at home can be a fun and creative way to elevate your dining experience.
Here’s a Simple Template and Some Ideas to Get You Started on Menu Cards
How to Create a Menu Card at Home
1.Put a Theme or Image On Your Menu Card
At the top, you can add an image, monogram, or crest. Maybe you have a theme. For example, in the photo below, you can see a Downton Abbey theme. A few years ago, I hosted an afternoon tea at my home before attending the Downtown Abbey movie.
I added an image of Highclere Castle.
Here I used a monogram (R) for our last name.
2. List Your Menu on the Card
Once you plan your menu, add that along with a brief description of the dish. Make it interesting.
Menu Card
Event: (Dinner Party, Birthday Celebration, Date Night)
You can name your event or add an image as seen above.
Appetizers
(Appetizer Name)
Description: (brief description)
Main Course
(Main Course Name)
Description: (brief description)
Ingredients: (list key ingredients)
Served with: (side dish, sauce, or accompaniments)
Dessert
(Dessert Name)
Description: (brief description)
Ingredients: (list key ingredients)
Served with: (optional, e.g., ice cream or coffee)
You can customize this template to fit your specific meal and event.
3. Print Your Menu Cards
Printing the menu cards on quality paper or card stock can add a touch of elegance to your event. (Hint – purchase card stock the same size as printer photo paper such as 4×6)
Etiquette of Menu Cards
Where to Place Menu Cards
The placement of the menu card varies. I like to place mine in the center of the plate- of course this can depend on your table settings.
The menu card may be placed to the left of the forks, on the bread and butter plate (without the butter!) or on the lunch/dinner plate. You may also use a holder which is placed above the bread or dinner plate.
If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOTself-guided.
PRIVATE Training. That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business. Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.
Today, we have the answers to your most popular questions.
Did you know you can schedule a time to speak with me? Many of you use this time to ask specific questions.
We love all the phone calls and have complied a list of our most frequently asked questions.
And to make this easy, here is the link to schedule a call.
Frequently Asked Questions About An Etiquette Certification
Do I owe any fees during the three years? No, you do not owe fees or royalties during your three year term period. Here is the good news, this is a “License and Certification” agreement, not a franchise.
Do I name my own business? Yes, you name and own your business and we help you with this process. We have guided so many to a name they love and works well in marketing a business.
Can I use and leverage the Manners To Go brand on my website? Yes. Once you are certified, you will receive a certification logo from Manners To Go to signify and confirm that you are aligned with our company.
You may also link to the Manners To Go website and reference our partnership in your copy.
Once I am certified, may I still receive assistance? Absolutely, we want your business to be successful. We are here to assist and offer guidance. This is one of the most valuable offerings within our certification. We find the licensees that use the on-going support are the most successful.
Do I receive updates and revisions to the curriculum? Yes, when the materials are revised and updated, you will receive new downloads.
Where can I teach the Manners To Go program? The opportunities are endless and here are popular venues to teach your manners classes:
After school programs
School assemblies; in the public, charter or private school classroom
If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOTself-guided.
PRIVATE Training. That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business. Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.
Lisa Richey provides etiquette programs to businesses, schools, and individuals.
