by Leonore Dicker
 
Dinner parties are always a treat, providing you know your table etiquette, of course. Between all the cutlery and unspoken rules, it can get a bit confusing. To help you out, here is a basic table manners guide.
 
Needless to say that when you get invited to dinner, respond in a timely manner. Always arrive on time and if you’re invited to someone’s home, make sure to bring the hostess a gift. During the dinner, your phone should be silenced and in your bag.
 
Once you take your seat at the table, immediately place the napkin on your lap, where it should stay throughout the meal – unless you need to excuse yourself from the table, in that case we recommend you leave your napkin on your seat until you return, especially if it’s stained.
 
At a restaurant, you may only start eating once everyone is served. At a private dinner party, wait until the host or hostess starts to eat before doing the same.
 
If you’re unfamiliar with your cutlery, start from the outside and work your way towards the plate throughout the meal. The cutlery that is the furthest from the plate should be used for the first dishes served. The dessert utensils might be placed above your plate. When in doubt, look at the hostess, see how she handles the situation and best to act accordingly.
 
Hold the knife in your right hand and fork in left hand. If you want to take a break from eating, place your cutlery down at the 3 o’clock position on your plate. When you’re finished, place them in the 10 and 4 o’clock position.
 
After the dinner party: don’t forget to send a thank you note. It’s better to send in the following week to the host or hostess.
 
And remember:
-Food should be passed from the left to the right
-Do not talk with your mouth full
-Keep your arms close to your torso throughout the dinner
-Don’t place your elbows on the table
-Only excuse yourself from the table between the main course and the dessert by saying, “Excuse me” or “I’ll be right back”.