by Debra Kirkham Afternoon tea was meant for discovery and it all began during the early 19th century and was originated by Anna Russell, the Duchess of Bedford. During those days a midday light lunch was created to get one through without being famished until the normal dinner meal between 7pm - 8:30pm. Anna found this to be an impossible … [Read more...] about Afternoon Tea Etiquette
The Proper Way to Eat Bread: One Bite at a Time
by Debra Kirkham Once upon a time the centerpiece of a table was a large loaf of bread. The beauty was in the strong and perfect reason why everyone at the table was to break off small bite-size pieces. The purpose for this was not to waste a single crumb, for when one would take a small piece from the loaf to one’s plate none was wasted from … [Read more...] about The Proper Way to Eat Bread: One Bite at a Time
The Tablecloth
by Debra Kirkham The whitest and brightest were the most fashionable, and expressively etiquette driven describes the tablecloths during the Medieval days, and still prevails to this day. The brilliant white tablecloth as enjoyed today is used for formal dining and in some restaurants and homes used for every meal. The tablecloth brings … [Read more...] about The Tablecloth
All it takes is a little Curtsey
by Debra Kirkham From the beginning of English royalty, to the novels of Jane Austen, to a classical ballet performance or even at a Magic Kingdom, we will find the beauty of a curtsey. This form of greeting is traditional while resonating with respect and acknowledgement for another person and their presence. A lady will bend her knee and … [Read more...] about All it takes is a little Curtsey
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
Setting a Formal Table
By Debra Kirkham Family time and life together is very different from one home to the next; and infinitely dear to those who live by tradition in sharing the evening meal together from one generation to the next. This particular daily experience is all so elegant, where dining and enjoying high tea is a life-style where everyone wears their … [Read more...] about Setting a Formal Table
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
