Category Archives: Social Etiquette

Someone double dipped. What should I do?

Dear Sandy, During a party I was hosting at my home, I was horrified to see one of my guests dip her chip back into the chip dip after taking a bite.  I didn’t know how to handle the situation, … Continue reading

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Example of a Condolence Note – Funeral Etiquette

One of the most difficult things to write is a condolence note.  However, it is one of the most appreciative things you can do for a family at a time of loss. A handwritten note is much better than a … Continue reading

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Helping a Lady with Her Coat – Dating Etiquette

A true gentleman will always help a lady with her coat. To help her put the coat on, stand behind the lady and hold the coat open at her waist level.  This allows the lady to reach her arms back … Continue reading

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Couples Signature on Informal Correspondence

When a married couple is sending informal correspondence such as a greeting card or letter, there is no steadfast etiquette rule for whose name should be written first in the signature. Usually, the person writing the note writes their name … Continue reading

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Addressing the First Lady in Writing

When writing to the wife of the President of the United States, the following forms of address are appropriate: Greeting or Salutation: Dear Mrs. Obama Envelope: Mrs. Obama Do not use a first name in either the greeting of the … Continue reading

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Is It Miss or Ms.?

The proper term to use for a single young lady under 21 is Miss.  When she turns 21, the proper term is Ms. If she is under 21 and married, you would use the term Mrs.

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Learn From Others

It is so easy to become frustrated when your expectations are not met when interacting with others.  For example, a sales associate is slow at the checkout or a technician can’t immediately tell you why your computer is not working. … Continue reading

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The Engagement Party

Traditionally, an engagement party is hosted by the bride’s parents to announce and celebrate the good news with close friends and family.  Today, an engagement party may be hosted by anyone close to the couple including the couple themselves. The … Continue reading

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Don’t Be A Whiner

It doesn’t matter if it’s a sporting event, social event, or business function, nobody enjoys being in the company of a whiner. A whiner can suck the joy out of anything faster than the old Hoover upright can vacuum the … Continue reading

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George Washington Promoted Manners Too!

On this President’s Day, it seems appropriate to acknowledge George Washington, at the age of 16, copied a set of rules on manners composed by the French Jesuits in 1595 for a lesson in penmanship.  Today, these rules are published … Continue reading

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