I consider every thank-you card I receive, especially those handwritten, as a gift. I have a few that I've had for years and one of those twas from the Hotel Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Naples. After I taught my Mimi's Manners class at the resort he placed a handwritten note on my desk the next morning letting me know that he thought my class was … [Read more...] about Too Late for a Thank You Note?
The History and Etiquette of Napkins
Written by Debra Kirkham How did the napkin originate and how does one of our most needed dining tools play its most role in etiquette today? How did it become so creatively folded, and beautifully embroidered? The napkin has a variety of contributions from different cultures. The word originates from Middle English, and nappe from French … [Read more...] about The History and Etiquette of Napkins
Table Manners Never Go Out of Style
by Debra Kirkham It’s sad to see that many of the traditions that inspired strong family relationships have disappeared from a majority of families within several decades. Fortunately there are some that still remain. Today, many families may enjoy dinner from noon to midnight. Our meal times together are flexible and changeable as much as … [Read more...] about Table Manners Never Go Out of Style
Manners Matter in the Hunger Games…Just ask Effie
All the excitement around the new movie The Hunger Games piqued my interest and I saw the movie this week. I had only finished the book the day before so it wasn't as if I had been anticipating the release of the movie. I was just caught up in the latest talk among friends and their children. I wasn't disappointed, I thought it was a great movie. … [Read more...] about Manners Matter in the Hunger Games…Just ask Effie
Too Embarassed to Take Your Child to Dinner?
Recently a friend told me that she'd love to take her family to The Ritz-Carlton for Thanksgiving Brunch but she's too worried about her 7-year-old's table manners to attend. She said that no matter what she does, he continues to burp at the dinner table, and she's concerned that her three-year-old will soon follow in his footsteps. I can … [Read more...] about Too Embarassed to Take Your Child to Dinner?
Manners Class in Time for the Holidays
Did your children remember to bring their manners to the Thanksgiving dinner table? If they need a little extra "polish" before the next family gathering, it might be a good idea to sign them up for an etiquette class where they'll hone their manners and learn new skills to make you proud at the table and beyond! The next Mimi's Manners class … [Read more...] about Manners Class in Time for the Holidays
Practice. Practice. Practice.
It's true with sports, hobbies and anything else we'd like to improve in our lives: We get better with practice. During my classes, we discuss our favorite pastimes: tennis, baseball, ballet, art, etc. It's fun to learn about their interests and watch their faces light up as they talk about the things they love: horseback riding, hockey, … [Read more...] about Practice. Practice. Practice.
All Smiles at Mimi’s Manners
These young ladies learned that manners can be fun during a recent class at the Edison & Ford Winter Estate. While they learned new skills and practiced dining etiquette, they met new friends and discovered that learning manners can be a lot of fun. Throughout the class the children practice holding the silverware properly, chewing with … [Read more...] about All Smiles at Mimi’s Manners
