Category: etiquette

The Forgotten Art of Etiquette: Proper Behavior That Embraces Divine Wisdom

Etiquette has its own divine wisdom. It is an art form of being civil, differing across cultures and times, benefiting everyone involved—which, when practiced, keeps us from deviating to ignorantly rude mortals and brings our consciousness closer to a realm beyond this physical world. Originally, etiquette reflected the universal norms of proper behavior. But, in…


Curtain Time! A Guide to Enjoying Your Opera Experience to the Fullest

Attending a live performance of the opera is a feast for all the senses, as you take in the sights and sounds of the performers, the orchestra, and the other guests around you. What to Expect The opera is an exciting, interactive experience during which the guests and performers can see and hear each other….


The Art of Digital Etiquette

With texts, messaging, and emails increasingly replacing many phone calls and in-person conversations for personal and business purposes, we’ve compiled several tips to help improve online communication skills. Make a Good Impression Just as you’d start an in-person or phone conversation, open with “Good Morning!” or a similar greeting. For first-time texts or emails, introduce…


Introducing Children to Etiquette

To ensure a generation of well-mannered adults, it’s required to teach common courtesies to children. Instructing them in the art of practical etiquette—knowing how and why to behave—provides lifelong benefits that they’ll pass along to their own children. Turn the Phone Off Patricia Rossi, author of “Everyday Etiquette,” suggested banning phones and all other electronics from…


How to Be a Perfect Host or Hostess

Parties are supposed to be fun, but hosting any type of gathering can be stressful. To make sure you enjoy the party, too, your Polite Society guide has a few pointers to make it easy. Start Early so You Can Enjoy the Party As the host or hostess, it’s OK for you to enjoy the…


Put It in Writing: The Art of the Thank You Note

A proper thank you note showing appreciation for a holiday or birthday gift or a considerate action is a core concept of good manners. As a pleasant bonus, it can also result in unexpected benefits for the sender. Why Send a Thank You As children, we learned at an early age to write thank you…


Formal Dining: A Survival Guide

Formal dinners can be a lot of fun, but if you’ve never attended one, it can be a bit daunting to know how to behave and what to wear. No need to worry; we’ll make sure you have a great time. Watch Your Host or Hostess If the dinner isn’t formal, men should wear a…


Ballet Etiquette: How to Look Like a Season Pass Holder

Attending live performances of ballet is a thrilling experience, but those unfamiliar with it may find it daunting. Accordingly, we reached out to dancers and ballet companies for tips on how to act and how to dress. Do Dress to Impress Shorts are for the beach, not the ballet. The performers can see the audience…