Modern Manners
Let’s Hit the Floor
Dear Readers, I’ve just come from a barn dance, and I’m thrilled to share what I learned regarding the elements and etiquette of social dancing. Social dances are intended for participation rather than performance, and what a fun time can be had by all. In a social dance environment, it is customary to say “yes”…
Let’s Talk About Fido
Dear Readers, Mrs. Abramovitz loves dogs, but we need to talk. Humans domesticated dogs to provide work and companionship; and the dogs need us, too. While the relationship is deeply symbiotic, it doesn’t mean we have to have our dogs with us everywhere we go, all the time. I can hear your purse barking. The…
The act of deference
Dear Readers, I’d like to talk about the act of deference, which is defined as a readiness or willingness to yield to others, or a humble submission that includes respect. If manners are all about social deportment, then the act of deference is a type of good manners that includes courtesy. An example of deference…
Keep Your Word
Dear Readers, How are we supposed to plan anything when guests no-show or when clients don’t honor their contracts? Social etiquette and business etiquette dictate that we actually do what we say we are going to do. You build trust that way. And when we fall short, and we all do, we offer a genuine…
Let’s Toast
Let us consider the “toast” as it relates to celebrating, the traditional take and the new way. Toasting with alcohol is a tradition rooted in superstition, dating back to the Ancient Greeks. But the rule that insists that those who do not drink must still raise a glass containing alcohol must go. A toast is…
Dining etiquette
Dear Reader, Let’s pretend we’re at our favorite restaurant and we get carried away in conversation, but we’re not ready for our plate to be taken away. What are the nonverbal clues, the sign language, the secret codes spelled out through silverware? In other words, how do you get your server’s attention while staying engaged…
MORE STORIES
E-Subscription Be the First to Know
Sign up for our Complimentary E-Subscription newsletter and receive the best and most up to date news right away.



