Labor Day Manners

Well, the end of summer is upon us.  Can you believe that it is already September?  I'm actually looking forward to this time of year, the only part I dislike is knowing that winter comes after fall!  I'm looking forward to the cooler days (so I can go running more frequently without trying to breathe through the humidity), the colorful scarves and bringing out a fun new wardrobe!  With Labor Day as the last big part before the end of summer, we figured it was appropriate to go over a few etiquette tips while spending this relaxing day with family and friends.

Olivia Palermo

• Never attend a Labor Day party, whether it's a picnic, dinner party, cocktail party, bbq without bringing a dish to pass or a bottle of wine.  The hostess will always remember the guests who arrive empty handed.
• Please don't overstay your welcome.  Never come too early (unless you are willing to help prepare food and clean the house) and never stay too late.  When you notice the hostess cleaning up dishes or yawning as your talk, then you need to take those signals and go home.
• Take the Labor Day celebration as a perfect time to wear your favorite white dress, the autumn trends are on the way!
• If you are attending a party, make sure you RSVP'd.  No one likes having unexpected guests and responding an hour before the party is not acceptable.
• Since it is a holiday away from work, spend that time with family and friends.  Try to stay away from your phone and computer.  Family time is more important!

Did You Forget to RSVP?

Over the weekend, we had several parties and events to attend.  Yes, it was one of those busy weekends, where sitting down and sleep almost seem nonexistent!  But it was worth it, spending time with friends and family!  Anyhow, during one of the events I was speaking with a few people about our new book, Provocative Manners: The Sauce of Life, and how one of our biggest pet peeves is the lack of guests responding to an invitation.

Why is it so difficult to respond yes or no to an event?  Is is a bit of insecurity?  Maybe it's too difficult for someone to make a commitment.  Or is it a bit of laziness?  Wait, this shouldn't be an excuse, especially if it has prepaid postage.  Or are we just that inconsiderate of others?  We think only ourselves and our schedules.  Unfortunately, not many people show respect. 

Remember, it is crucial that you respond, "yes" or "no" to an event!  If you are unsure whether you can attend, then contact the host/hostess and let them know you are a "maybe", believe me, they will appreciate this!  It's difficult planning the food, drinks, decor and location when the guest count is difficult to determine.

Credit: Solis Winery

Sauce of Life Tip:

Respond to a Party ASAP!  If you are waiting to find out whether the date works for you, write the deadline on the calendar so you respond promptly to the invitation.  Don't leave your host/hostess in the lurch!

Credit: FrenchWeddingResponse

Why Is Everything So Complicated?

As technology advances, life should get simpler, right?  Wrong!  The more we are "tuned-in" to technology, the more people tend to daydream!  With all that daydreaming, let's try to find a bit of happiness.  So what needs to change?  Are our lives too complicated?

The Happy Chart

O.K., you have heard us over and over again say that common sense is lacking!  Where has it gone?  Why does everything have to be so difficult now?  Are you still wondering what we are talking about?  Well, here is a short list of simple things that have become complicated! 

1. Replying to an invitation.  Why is it so difficult for an invited guest to respond, yes or no, for an event?  Especially since most invitations are electronic, just a click of the mouse!

2. Why are pictures no longer snapped for memories, but present an opportunity for a "photo-op"?  Are you dreaming a talent agent will discover you on Facebook or YouTube?  That's very unlikely.  Enjoy the moment.  Life isn't about becoming famous or wealthy, it's about faith, family and friends. 


3. Why is it so difficult to smile?  The majority of human beings walk around with a crabby face all the time!  Do you have nothing to be thankful for, like the roof over your head, the shoes on your feet and the lover in your bed?  (Thanks to Darius Rucker!)

4.  Returning phone calls should be a priority.  This seems to be off the charts impossible for some people!  Don't respond to a voice message with a text!  Find time to get on the phone and make a quick call.  Don't worry, it won't be the end of the world if you actually have to talk to the person.

5. Saying please and thank you is definitely on this list!  The majority of people never say please or thank you.  Don't expect others to be their best if you can't be on the top of your game everyday!

The Magic Words