Category: good graces

Going on Summer Vacation? Pack Good Manners Along With the Sunscreen

Kick back, relax, and unwind this summer; you’ve earned it. Going casual, however, doesn’t mean you should relax your standards of gracious etiquette—even if you’re vacationing close to home due to today’s high cost of travel. Balmy Beaches What’s summer without time spent at the beach? Unfortunately, unless you’re on an exotic island, a thousand…


New Baby, New Dynamic: 5 Essential Rules for Family and Friends

The little bundle of joy is finally here! Everyone’s so excited! But be prepared—there’s something about a new baby that makes even the sanest person throw the rules of etiquette right out the window. The Hospital Rush TV and movies show us new mothers with perfect makeup enthusiastically hosting 30 loud relatives and friends in…


The Art of ‘No’: How to Say No Without Feeling Guilty

You’re not alone when it comes to finding it hard to say no. However, learning to use this simple two-letter word more will reduce stress, save you valuable time, and improve your overall quality of life. Firm No Saying no is much easier when you get the other person on your side. Thank them for…


Summer Entertaining: How to Host a Successful, Stress-Free Fete

Warm weather and sunshine lift our spirits, encouraging us to host a get-together. Whether a Fourth of July BBQ or an elegant summer tea, the best events are made even better with these tips, tricks, and tweaks. The Theme The first step to getting good friends or family together outside to enjoy delicious food and…


Genuine Gratitude: Make Your Next ‘Thank You’ a Meaningful One

Two of the most powerful words in the English language are “thank you.” Use them often and sincerely, so the recipient knows you’re not just practicing good etiquette, but are truly grateful. Thank You 101 Children are taught to say “thank you” at an early age, yet many adults find it awkward to convey the…


‘Goodness Me!’ Handling Embarrassing Situations With Grace

We’ve all had our share of social blunders. The more awkward the situation, the more important it is to own up to it and efficiently move on. Parsley in the Pearly Whites You may feel shy telling someone that they’ve got food stuck in their teeth, particularly if they’re not a close friend, but it’s…


Office Politics: Dealing With Problem Co-workers

We seem to have rules for just about everything these days—except for civility in the workplace. Most employers think it comes down to common decency. However, since you can’t count on that, here are some tips. The Noisemaker Loud, disruptive office mates not only make life unpleasant, but they can also affect your productivity. Unfortunately,…


The Art of Conversation: How to Talk to Anyone About Anything

The ability to converse with people, particularly new people, is more than just a social skill—it is an art. The first step to becoming the person others say they “had a great time talking to” is to simply show interest and be genuinely curious. Opening Lines Wonderful conversations aren’t difficult to start. Bypass the traditional…