Dinner Etiquette: The 10 Do's at the Dinner Table

We've all been there, sharing a pleasant meal at a fine and elegant restaurant with someone who had a tremendous lack of good manners. And we don’t want to find ourselves being “that guy” (or girl) who has no common sense when it comes to proper dinner table manners. You see, using good table manners and etiquette shows a great respect for your fellow diners. Even in today’s typical casual dining atmosphere, displaying just basic table manners is essential. You need to make sure that your manners are in check cause just your luck, you might be on a nice date or having lunch with your boss and co-worker. Therefore, you need to make sure that your eating and dining habits are deemed acceptable. Well to help make this possible, here are 10 things that you need to do to ensure that you’re practicing proper table manners. 

Dinner Etiquette: Attending a Gathering

For some of us, there are normally times when a friend invites you to dinner, whether it be at their house or at a restaurant.  And if you are like me, you may sometimes forget just the basics of proper dinner etiquette, when it comes to responding and attending this gathering. Well as a little refresher, I would like to help by providing you with five simple, good manners that you should use when going to a restaurant or house when invited.

Always respond to an invitation within a week of receiving. This shows a great deal of respect towards the host, showing that you truly want to participate in their gathering.

Dress according to the recommended dress code, such as fine, casual, or business casual. However, never try to out- dress the hostess!!

Be on time. There is nothing more annoying for a host or hostess than late guests

If you decide to bring a guest or partner, be sure to check with your hostess to see if it’s acceptable. You don't want to catch the host off guard by bringing a guest. Plus, the guest may be someone the host doesn't like. You never know.

If possible, bring a small gift as a considerate gesture. Gifts include flowers, chocolates, wine, or champagne or anything you believe may please the host and hostess.