Etiquette
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In modern society, everything is hectic and fast-paced, and we no longer have the time and dedication to the once-practiced good manners and etiquette.
Certainly, times have changed, as has our way of life, but maintaining some of these habits, I believe, can enrich both ourselves and those around us.
A few nuggets of wisdom...
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Invited to dinner with unfamiliar hosts: Bring a thoughtful gift that is neither too intimate nor overly cumbersome—perhaps a plant or a composition that requires minimal maintenance.
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Unexpected afternoon guests: Even if caught off guard, play the gracious host and prepare a cup of tea or coffee. Even if you lack biscuits, pay attention to the presentation with a nice set, a matching sugar bowl, water served in a beautiful pitcher, and two lovely afternoon-appropriate glasses. If available, place a flower on the tray for an impressive touch.
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Table setting, even for informal occasions: Give importance to table setting, even within the family. This exercise will also benefit your children, as they will develop an appreciation for a well-set table and likely replicate it as learned from their early years.
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Matched serving sets, correctly arranged cutlery, water and wine glasses, for more formal dinners with guests, pay attention to the cutlery set, the types of glasses for the planned drinks, and a well-contextualized, elegant, and unobtrusive centerpiece.
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A special touch: refined and multifaceted place cards.
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Table manners: A good rule is for the man to always seat the woman, accompanying her to the chair, making sure she is comfortably seated and bringing her closer to the table—never dragging or bouncing the chair.
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Communal dining: Whether it's a formal dinner or a casual gathering of friends, to succeed, it should include the following ingredients: a well-thought-out menu, pleasant company, creating a beautiful atmosphere with carefully arranged details, from the tablecloth to the tableware, a beautiful centerpiece, and pleasant background music that makes the environment enjoyable and welcoming.
While strolling the other evening, I came across an etiquette book at a market from 1994. I found it enjoyable to read a few nuggets and share them on our blog because the rules of etiquette complement our well-lived home, expressing care through small gestures and attentiveness that make every moment special and enjoyable.
