In light of the most recent installment in the ‘how to be a gracious guest’ series, it has been brought to my attention the excuse reason many do not send a thank you note is out of ignorance as to what to actually write. As surprised as I may feign, this is not my 1st time I have given a correspondence tutorial. Many, many ... read more
How to be a gracious guest (part 3: dessert)
It has been a lovely event – you danced, drank and dined and now it is time for you to depart. And at the appropriate time too – not the first to leave, but certainly not the last. You do NOT want to be that person. The last to leave is neither helpful nor welcomed – just lingering because there is alcohol available and ... read more
how to be a gracious guest (part 2: dinner)
So now it has been established that your are a VIP guest with your hostess gift in hand, but what is that in your other hand? A shopping bag with ingredients to whip up a little something to bestow upon the already planned and prepared menu? Unless you are attending a potluck dinner or the hostess has specifically requested you bring that amazing ... read more
how to be a gracious guest (part 1: the appetizer)
Do you have a friend who is well meaning, but a tad unrefined when it comes to proper party etiquette? Perhaps she hails from a culture where entertaining isn’t fraught with formalities. Or there isn’t a distinction in the style of gatherings? If so, then this partyjeanie post should serve you well. With the summer ... read more
party prep for any given sunday
With the countdown for Super Bowl XLV in full effect, it’s time to pull out the partyjeanie playbook on game day etiquette. One might question the introduction of formalities for a party that calls for chips, wings & beer served in bottles, however being a considerate and gracious host transcends any occasion. The follow suggestions are ... read more
party prep for the powder room
With Thanksgiving a week behind us and New Year's Eve 30 days away, we are in the preliminary phrase of the premier party season. While most of us will be guests in someone's home, some of us will do the entertaining. Creating a festive and comfortable party atmosphere should be the priority of the hostess and this extends beyond the food, ... read more
gift giving to the hostess with mostest
As the gift giving season rapidly approaches, my hands are wrapped up in retail holiday prep and my head is trying to wrap itself around all the client work I have, considering (and shopping) for an appropriate hostess gift is definitely on my to don't list. Of course there are well received, crowd pleasing stand-bys like candles, wine, sweets ... read more