Good manners are mostly common sense.
Though people often dismiss them as stuffy and unnecessary, good manners are intended to be just the opposite. The purpose of etiquette isn't to make people follow a bunch of pointless rules but to make people feel more comfortable knowing that their own behavior is correct and knowing what to expect from other guests. Understanding the rules of formal dining etiquette can make dinner parties a more fun and relaxing experience for all involved.
Seating
If you're a guest, let your host point you toward your seat. If you come with a partner, don't be surprised if you aren't seated together. Proper etiquette calls for couples to be split up so that the conversation around the table stays lively.
If you're the host, have a seating plan in mind for your dinner that encourages conversation.
Utensils
The easiest way to remember which piece of silverware to use is to work your way in from the outside. Use the farthest fork for the appetizer, the next fork for the salad and the next fork for the entree. If you're not sure which utensil is appropriate to use, look around the table to see what others are using.
If you do choose the wrong utensil, don't make a big deal out of it. If you can use the utensil, go ahead and keep using it. You can use another utensil or ask for a fresh fork after the course is finished. If you can't use the utensil--for instance, if you've dipped a fork in your bowl of soup--switch to the appropriate utensil and leave the wrong utensil on the edge of your plate.
Once you've used a utensil, you shouldn't put it back on the table. It should stay on your plate or bowl.
Napkins
You can put your napkin in your lap as soon as you're seated, or wait for your host to unfold her napkin.
If you leave the table during the meal, you should leave your napkin, soiled side up, on the chair.
When the meal is over, loosely fold your napkin and leave it on the table--in the center of your place setting if the plate has been removed and to the left of the plate if it is still there.
Eating
Cut your food into one or two bite-size pieces at a time, and eat them before cutting any more pieces.
Follow your host's lead when it comes to foods such as fried chicken. If she uses a fork, you should. If she picks up the food to eat it, it's OK for you to follow suit.
Be sure to taste your food before adding sauce or seasoning to it.
Take small bites and chew them thoroughly. Don't talk with you mouth full.
Tags: your host, your napkin, around table, etiquette make, make people, napkin leave, next fork
