etiquette tip

Etiquette is a set of rules that can only be observed, not enforced.  Because of this, it's one of the easiest ways to be fancy.  I'll share some of the rules I try to observe, just to spread the fanciness.

If you're the closest to the bread basket, take a piece and put it on your bread plate.  Then offer a piece to the person on your left.  After that person has taken (or declined) the bread, pass it to the person on your right.  If there's a communal butter dish, take some from the dish and put it on your bread plate and use this as your own little butter stash.  Don't butter your entire roll.  Tear off and butter each piece of bread before you eat it.

etiquette tip

Etiquette is a set of rules that can only be observed, not enforced.  Because of this, it's one of the easiest ways to be fancy.  I'll share some of the rules I try to observe, just to spread the fanciness.

Hosting is stressful.  If you've been invited to a party, you should arrive at a party 5-15 minutes after the start time on the invitation so the host doesn't panic and think "Oh, no!  No one's coming!"  Also, you should never arrive early.  If you're going to arrive late, call the host or hostess (don't text) so they can decide if they should start the festivities without you.  

etiquette tip

Etiquette is a set of rules that can only be observed, not enforced.  Because of this, it's one of the easiest ways to be fancy.  I'll share some of the rules I try to observe, just to spread the fanciness.

"Esquire" is reserved for lawyers.  When corresponding with a lawyer, you can use either the Mr. or Ms./Mrs. salutation or esquire, never both.  For example, Ms. Gloria Allred or Gloria Allred, esq. are both correct.  Ms. Gloria Allred, esq. is incorrect.  If you're addressing a lawyer and his or her spouse, drop the esquire and only use the traditional Mr. and Mrs.

etiquette tip

Etiquette is a set of rules that can only be observed, not enforced.  Because of this, it's one of the easiest ways to be fancy.  I'll share some of the rules I try to observe, just to spread the fanciness.

Once you pick up a piece of silverware, it shouldn't be placed back on the table.  Rest your utensils on the edge of your plate,  but don't put one end on the plate and the other on the table.  When you're finished with your meal,  place your fork and knife together at 5:00 on your plate.  The fork should be up and the knife blade turned inward.  This signifies you're done eating and your plate can be cleared from the table.

etiquette tip

Etiquette is a set of rules that can only be observed, not enforced.  Because of this, it's one of the easiest ways to be fancy.  I'll share some of the rules I try to observe, just to spread the fanciness.

When addressing a newly-engaged couple, "congratulations" is said to the man and "best wishes" is said to the woman.  The reasoning is the man has successfully worked to woo (trick?) the woman into being his wife and therefore deserves the "congratulations."  If the couple is of the same sex, both "congratulations" and "best wishes" can be given to either party.

a little note

Every etiquette book I've read has emphasized the importance of sending handwritten notes.  There's never a lack of reasons to send a note, either.  Emily Post says you should write a handwritten note basically any time you want to acknowledge any thing.

That means you should have some note cards.

You don't have to buy monogrammed Crane stationery (even though the Kate Spade line is out of control adorable).  Target has cute note card and envelope sets in the dollar section and a stamp costs $0.45.  You can be fancy for less than $2.

In general, keep the message simple and heartfelt.  Personally, I like to write messages that will make the recipient either cry or laugh out loud.  That's just the way I am.  I'm emotional and I want people to emote.  Sue me.