Do you have a “diamond dilemma”?!
Do you have a “diamond dilemma”?! Now that is an oxymoron… how could anyone have a dilemma with a diamond?! Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, right? Well, here is the dilemma- the traditional rule of etiquette, which you may or may not be privy to, is that diamonds are not worn during the daytime. […]
Why is a receiving line such a lovely tradition?
A receiving line is such a lovely tradition, purposely created for the opportunity for hosts, and the guest of honor, or the bride and groom, to meet each guest attending their party or reception! Receiving lines are certainly not passé as some may think but are actually quite stylish. In fact, a receiving line is de […]
What is the most appropriate flower arrangement on a dining room table? Low is the way to go.
There is nothing more elegant than flowers picked from the garden and arranged to grace a dining room table! Mummy instilled in me that the most appropriate flower arrangement for a dining room table must be low enough so that you can easily see the guests seated on the opposite side of the table. The […]
How should one sit in a dining room chair? Gently!
Dining room chairs are inherently delicate due to their pierced backs and delicate splats (the exposed portion of the wood design behind your back). Traditional chairs such as Chippendale, Hepplewhite and ribbon-back are not meant to support your back. In fact, formally, your back should never touch the back of the chair! Remember that sitting up straight […]
Monograms for a Married Couple: Whose Initial Goes First?
“If it is not moving, monogram it!” This is how Reese Witherspoon refers to monogramming in her darling book, Whiskey in a Teacup, and it sums up my southern sentiments as well. Monogramming is an essential element in the South for timeless and tailored houses. Towels, sheets, coverlets, shams, without a monogram… well, they just look […]
What goes well with a gift?
A Gift Enclosure Card and Envelope! Gift enclosure cards, with their matching envelopes, are a thoughtful adornment on any gift. A little note written on the gift card, along with your name, is a splendid way to let the recipient know who gave the gift to them. Here are examples of some of my gift […]
Thank You Notes – Part V
The Secret Behind Fountain Pen Nibs An authentic fountain pen is the best and most traditional choice of writing instrument. A rollerball pen (not a ballpoint) with black or blue ink, would be my choice. Fountain pens can take a while to get used to, depending on the nib size. Practice first if you are […]
Why are menu cards majestic?
Having a menu card for an event elevates the occasion and honors the celebration or the person being feted. It also lets guests know what to expect. With the date and the occasion printed on the card, it can become a keepsake for your guests, too. Menu cards are printed vertically and are approximately 5″ […]
Thank You Notes – Part IV
The Art of the Handwritten Note A well composed, handwritten note is a very thoughtful gift you can give to someone. With the plethora of emails and texts these days, a handwritten note is a precious sight for sore eyes! You know that someone has taken the time to compose and write meaningful words, just for […]
My Favorite Etiquette Books
Addressing an envelope and knowing the appropriate salutations can be a minefield of protocol with various titles and ranks. I do not pretend to know these by heart and must always look them up! There are a myriad of etiquette books and experts to choose from and listen to these days. I have been asked which are […]
Thank You Notes – Part III
It can be a challenge to know how to address an envelope correctly, depending on title, rank, or whether a lady is married, divorced, or single…the list goes on and on. The same holds true in knowing the correct salutation to use in regard to rank and title. When addressing an envelope to a couple, traditionally […]
Thank You Notes – Part II
Notecards can be store bought or customized with engraving, embossing or printing. Please refer to my past newsletter, “Thank You Notes- Part I,” here, for a more in-depth explanation on the various nuances of how to write a proper card. Refer to my past newsletter, “What is the most sincere type of sympathy card?” here, on reasons why you may draw […]