If there is anything we know in the south, it's our manners! I can't help but admit, some etiquette rules do get a little tricky. The best rule of thumb is to follow your hostess' lead and above all make everyone feel comfortable regardless of which fork you use.
I liked to have died (read mortified) a few years ago to attend a formal brunch at the country club with my then boyfriend who was as sweet as soda pop and polite as the day is long. He did not, however, consider proper etiquette a high priority. Given the choice of four forks at his place setting, I assumed he knew the general rule to start on the outside and work in. The smaller fork on the left was for salad, the next fork was for the entree, the fork to the right of the plate was for seafood and the one above his plate was meant for dessert. He proceded to select his dessert fork and used it for ALL FOUR COURSES. I loved him anyway, bless his heart. Besides I knew his momma taught him better.
What I find tricky are the archaic napkin rules regarding napkin tips facing away from you or is it towards you? Do you set your napkin in your lap upon sitting at your seat or do you wait for your hostess?
Simply put, you'll be safe if you place your napkin on your lap when you take your seat, or wait for your beverage to arrive. If you leave the table during the meal, loosely fold your napkin and place it to the left of your plate. No longer is it required to set your napkin in your chair. You risk soiling the chair and ultimately your frock.
At the end of the meal, set your napkin on the table. If you are a guest in someone's home and are willing to use the same linen napkin again, just fold it and set it beside your plate. You'll be looked on favorably and will not lack plenty of dinner invitations.
(In defense of my then boyfriend, he would probably be equally as mortified to know I think all wrenches look alike. I have no idea which one is appropriate for any given job. Bless my heart!)
Pin It
