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
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
Mother’s Day Gift Idea
Flowers? Candy? Breakfast in bed? These are all great ideas, but have you ever thought about giving the gift of manners for kids this Mother's Day? I know plenty of mothers (and grandmothers) who would love for their kids to learn (and continue to practice) good manners. I teach classes where children will learn the basics of good manners, … [Read more...] about Mother’s Day Gift Idea
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
Dessert Spoon and Fork??!
Children at The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota recently were baffled by having a fork and a spoon for their molten chocolate cake dessert. One of the children asked, "Why does a place setting sometimes have both a fork and a spoon presented?" Adults often ask the same question. The two utensils can be used to assist with eating the dessert and should be … [Read more...] about Dessert Spoon and Fork??!
Sarasota Ritz-Carlton Offers Mimi’s Manners March 12
"Season" in Sarasota isn't just for the social set at big fundraising events around town. Children have their own set of birthday parties, social gatherings and family events that call for good manners. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is offering a one-night class to help the young socialites improve their manners. Mimi's Manners class will be offered … [Read more...] about Sarasota Ritz-Carlton Offers Mimi’s Manners March 12
Time for Tea (and Manners) at LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort
Children at LaPlaya Beach Resort learned the importance of good manners, handshakes and afternoon tea during a recent Saturday afternoon class. Everyone agreed that having friends is important--and no one wants to be friends with someone who is mean, rude and has no manners. Shaking hands (web-to-web style) was taught and practiced--along with … [Read more...] about Time for Tea (and Manners) at LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort
