Protocol for Formal Home Dining
A time-honored, centuries-old tradition, formal home dining can be a pleasure to host, hostess and guests. However, like most traditions, it comes with a set of protocols and expectations for all parties involved. Does this Spark an idea?
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Hosting
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The primary function of the host or hostess is to make guests feel welcomed and entertained. This begins right when they arrive, as the host should greet them personally at the front door. Throughout the evening, the host should also periodically ask if they require anything additional to make their stay more enjoyable.
Guests
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Formal home dining protocol applies to guests as well as hosts. Table manners of the guests should be impeccable, and one must take great care to bring up only appropriate topics of conversation. Steer away from anything that might prove too controversial or potentially embarrassing for the host.
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Afterward
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Formal home dining protocol does not end with the conclusion of the meal. Hosts should thank their guests for coming, and guests should do likewise before leaving. A thank-you note, mailed to the host at a later time, is also a nice touch. But the height of good manners is to offer a reciprocal invitation to a similar dinner.
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References
- Photo Credit Country Dining 4 image by Sleven from Fotolia.com
