Even the most well-groomed and impeccably mannered have
at some point of time or another had the misfortune of making fools of
themselves and wishing the floor would open up and swallow them.
However, one should keep in mind that we are only human and bound to
falter sometime.
If you are invited to a formal sit down
dinner party for the first time and aren't quite sure how to sail
through the evening without making any faux pas here are some helpful
hints. As I have repeatedly said in my columns, nobody knows you are a
bundle of nerves except yourself… and that's your best kept secret!
Make
sure you walk in with confidence and your body language should have the
right degree of poise and elegance. It would be a good idea to check
with the host/hostess in advance for a dress code, if any. Make sure
your clothes are tasteful, fit well, appropriate for the occasion and
send out positive signals.
If you are opting for something
flashy and revealing, be careful that your attire is tasteful and not
inappropriate for the occasion.
If you are tense when you
begin a conversation, take a deep breath to relax the body. Contrary to
the popular belief, ignorance is not bliss, so keep yourself updated on
current events by watching the news, reading newspapers, catching the
latest films, reading books, etc.
Be a good listener, make
direct eye contact and be sincere. Religion, politics and personal
questions are more or less taboo in formal or semi-formal dos. Keep the
conversation light and impersonal. Ensure you circulate and don't get
stuck talking to one person.
• At the dinner table make sure you talk to both people seated on
either side of you. At a formal dinner, the order of service would be
hors d'oeuvres (appetiser), soup, salad, entre (main course), cheese
and fruit, dessert and coffee.
• Ensure that the first thing you do when you sit down is place your napkin
on your lap.
•
The oversized plate at the centre of your place setting is a base plate
or decorative plate, which is not to be eaten out of.
• If
confused with the multiple sets of cutlery, work your way from outside
inwards. Please do not save used cutlery or make clanking noises with
them.
• Generally white wine would be served with white meat
and red wine with red meats. A port wine would be served with the
cheese and fruit.
• Food comes up to your mouth, you do not stoop down towards it, and please
do not talk with food in your mouth!
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