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…
How to Be the Perfect Wedding Guest
Wedding behavior normally falls into three categories: good, bad, and clueless. Few events remain where so many traditional rules still apply. Happily, being the guest they remember for all the right reasons is easier than you think. Répondez S’il Vous Plaît Only the bride is allowed to be late to the wedding. Being prompt, however,…
Here’s a Tip: The Fine Line Between Over-Tipping and Cheapskate
Tipping is important; waiters count on their tips to survive, or perhaps your plumber went above and beyond without charging you extra. But do you need to tip everyone you come into contact with? The short answer is no. Sit-Down Dining One legend says that the term tip—“to ensure promptness”—began as a box that was…
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…
Don’t Quit: How to Recover From Business Mistakes With Dignity
Things happen: Maybe you missed a big meeting or performed horrendous karaoke at the company Christmas party, or perhaps your cellphone went off at the worst possible moment. Relax, you don’t have to find a new job. To err is human; to salvage your reputation, read on. Hello, Mr. … The internet is filled with…
BFF Etiquette: The Rules That Form Lifelong Bonds
In teen years, a “best friend forever” can simply be someone who doesn’t gossip about you or steal your boyfriend. In later years, BFFs should be supportive, understanding, accepting, encouraging, dependable—and fun! Be Honest Being a best friend isn’t all unicorns and rainbows. A true friend is honest, which is easier said than done. If…
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…
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…
Sincerity Matters: How to Make a Meaningful Apology
A heartfelt apology soothes both sides and undoes the awkwardness or damage of whatever you’re apologizing for. A genuine “I’m sorry,” however, has several components. Acknowledge Use the word “I.” Own up to your mistake from the get-go: “I’m so sorry for …” Avoid dumbing down the apology with passive euphemisms such as “mistakes were…
‘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…
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