Napkin Etiquette & Table Manners

Series Summary

Social expectations of behavior at the dinner table vary among different areas of the world and among different levels of socioeconomic status. Table etiquette is the code that governs social behaviors at the dining table. The “cultural norm” is another way to define the word “etiquette.” Living up to a society’s definition of the social standard, can be daunting at times. There are many rules and regulations for various situations, including greeting one another, dining together, interacting together, dating, and conversing with one another. Violating these social codes can lead to public disgrace, hurt feelings, feuds, misunderstandings and, in some cases, murderous rage.

In this series of expert videos, you will learn all about table etiquette. Begin your etiquette lesson with a video on “What to do with napkins.” Expand your knowledge of etiquette with these instructional video clips. Learn the rules about bread and seasoning your food. Watch these videos to learn about the different types of silverware that may be at a formal dinner. Learn more about cutting and eating your food. Watch as our expert teaches the proper way to hold a wine glass. What do you do if you drop your silverware on the floor? Watch these videos to find out!

Video Transcript

"Hello I am Elena Brouwer from the International Etiquette Center in Hollywood, Florida. Our Website is www.etiquettecenter.com. We are here at the lovely Sea View Hotel in Bal Harbour, Florida. On behalf of ExpertVillage.com, I welcome you and let’s get started. You have been invited to a fancy dinner and you look at all the silverware, look at all the glasses, where do we start? Well the first thing that we need to think about is your napkin. That is where you start; you need to place your napkin on your lap. Now what not to do would be to shake your napkin up as if it is a flag. What not to do do not put your napkin on your neck as a bib. What you do is that you unfold your napkin on your lap and you are ready. "