DINING SAVVY TAKING A SEAT Arranged or Where do you want us? Being Seated (demonstrate) Hands on lap /Survey the table (

1. DINING SAVVY TAKING A SEAT Arranged or Where do you want us? Being Seated (demonstrate) Hands on lap /Survey the table (utensils) In any event, a polite host should see to it that guests take the better seats- those that look out onto scenery, not a wall or the kitchen door. Peter Post NAPKIN ETIQUETTE Host/Hostess take the lead Placing the napkin on the lap Leaving the table briefly –push in chair Silent signal STARTING THE MEAL Wait for the Host’s signal Dining posture Sit up straight “Arm zone” Be aware of the pace of other diners

2. THE SOUP COURSE • Holding the soup spoon • Like ships that go out to sea, I spoon my soup away from me. • Tip soup plate /bowl away from you • Clear soups /hearty soups • Place spoon on soup plate or on plate under soup bowl at 10:20 TOASTING • Host/Hostess toast as a welcome • Host/Hostess may stand and propose a toast to the Guest of Honor at the beginning of the dessert course • The person being toasted raises his/her glass, but does not drink, but then rises after the toast and toasts the host/hostess (he/she may now drink) • One does not drink a toast to oneself

3. BREAD AND BUTTER • Food on the left of place setting / drinks on the right • The butter spreader • Breaking of bread –bite size – butter THE KNIFE AND FORK • Demonstrate holding utensils • Cut only one piece at a time in a straight cut one-way • American Style / Resting/ Finished • Continental Style/ Resting / Finished THE DESSERT COURSE • Bring dessert fork to the left and the spoon to the right • Fork and Spoon helpmates • I am finished / fork and spoon

4. END OF THE MEAL • Host/Hostess signals by placing the napkin on the left side of the plate • Follow lead/ place napkin / rise/ push in chair • Say thank you to Host/Hostess and other guests • Write a thank you note within 48 hours so you will not forget