Module+4-+Etiquette


 * Table Manners**

//Simple, Good Manners//:
 * Always respond to an **invitation** within a week of receiving it.
 * Dress according to the **recommended (if any) dress code.** NEVER attempt to "out dress" the hostess!
 * Be **punctual** - never more than 10 minutes late.
 * If you wish to bring a guest as your partner, **good dinner table etiquette** demands that you should always check with the host first. If you are the one hosting the party and a guest of yours arrives with an unexpected friend, be polite & courteous with them, and speak with your inconsiderate guest at another time!
 * It is considered polite to take along a small gift (CLICK HERE for suggestions), for your host and hostess. Flowers, chocolates or champagne are always appreciated.

//10 Do's://
 * 1) Once seated, **unfold your napkin** and use it for occasionally wiping your lips or fingers. At the end of dinner, leave the napkin tidily on the place setting.
 * 2) It is good dinner table etiquette to **serve the lady sitting to the right** of the host first, then the other ladies in a clockwise direction, and lastly the gentlemen.[[image:http://www.gourmet-food-revolution.com/images/GourmetlDinnerTableEtiquette.jpg align="right"]]
 * 3) **Hold the knife and fork** with the handles in the palm of the hand, forefinger on top, and thumb underneath.
 * 4) Whilst eating, you may if you wish **rest the knife and fork** on either side of the plate between mouthfuls. When you have finished eating, place them side by side in the center of the plate.
 * 5) If the food presented to you **is not to your liking,** it is polite to at least make some attempt to eat a small amount of it. Or at the very least, cut it up a little, and move it around the plate!
 * 6) It is quite acceptable to **leave some food to one side of your plate** if you feel as though you have eaten enough. On the other hand, don't attempt to leave your plate so clean that it looks as though you haven't eaten in days!
 * 7) Desserts may be eaten with **both a spoon and fork,** or alternatively a **fork alone** if it is a cake or pastry style sweet.
 * 8) Should a lady **wish to be excused** for the bathroom, it is polite for the gentlemen to stand up as she leaves the table, sit down again, and then stand once more when she returns.
 * 9) Always make a point of **thanking the host and hostess** for their hospitality before leaving.
 * 10) It is good dinner table etiquette to send a personal **thank you note** to the host and hostess shortly afterwards.

//10 Don'ts://
 * 1) NEVER start eating **before a signal** from the host to do so.
 * 2) Forks should **not be turned over** unless being used for eating peas, sweetcorn kernels, rice or other similar foods. In which case, it should be transferred to the right hand. However, at a casual buffet, or barbecue it is quite acceptable to eat with just a fork.
 * 3) It is not generally regarded as good dinner table etiquette to use one's bread for **dipping into soups or mopping up sauces.**
 * 4) **Loud eating noises** such as slurping and burping are very impolite. The number one sin of dinner table etiquette!
 * 5) Talking with one's **mouth full.** is not only unpleasant to watch, but could also lead to choking! Definitely not a good idea!
 * 6) Don't **stretch across the table** crossing other guests to reach food, wine or condiments. Instead ask a guest sitting close to pass the item to you.
 * 7) Good dinner table etiquette sometimes involves a degree of diplomacy when it comes to the host's choice of food and wine! Even if you feel that you can do better, **don't ever offer your criticism.** If you feel unable to pay any compliments, at least remain silent on the subject.
 * 8) **Picking teeth** (unless toothpicks are provided) or **licking fingers** are very unattractive! The only exception to the latter is when eating meat or poultry on the bone (such as chicken legs or ribs). In which case, a finger bowl should be provided.
 * 9) **Drinking too much wine can be very embarrassing!** Where a different wine is served with each course, it is quite acceptable to not finish each glass.
 * 10) Don't forget to make **polite conversation** with those guests around you. Dinner parties are not just about the food, they are intended to be a sociable occasion!


 * Setting a Table**

The art of setting a dinner table is a lot easier with the proper instructions. Whether your dinner is very formal or of the more casual variety, there are a few basic guidelines to follow when learning how to set a table.

Below is a basic set up of a dinner placement. For more details, please click [|here].




 * Napkin Folds**

A beautifully set table is enhanced when you learn some simple napkin folding skills. Learn how to fold decorative napkins with simple step-by-step instructions. Makes an inexpensive and impressive table decoration!

For a napkin fold guide, click here.