Etiquette: Doggie Bags, Carry Out, and To Go Boxes Revisited

Dear Reader,

I regret to say that I have the unfortunate task of having to revisit one of my posts. Apparently, my readership has not taken hold of my advice (please see my post of the same name from March 20th of this year) as I witnessed a most dreadful breach of etiquette at a bridal luncheon not just a few weeks ago. It is almost to scandalous to write about, but dear reader, for the benefit of all, I will swallow my pride and march ahead.

I simply must reiterate the pedestrian quality of a person who requests a "doggy bag", "to-go box", or a "carry out" anything from a restaurant. I will not completely repeat myself on this matter; please read my previous post. I do, however, wish to amend by addition that which I have already addressed. This most dreadful thing that happened was that two ladies at this bridal luncheon had to leave early to attend another engagement. These things do happen--this was not the problem. The problem was that the dessert course had not yet been served at the luncheon and these ladies had the audacity to ask the waiter for their desserts "to go". When I heard this request, I was so mortified I could hardly move. As I was daintily gasping for air while I sat listening to this absurdity, I had to say a little prayer to regain my composure. I am so glad that Emily Post was not present to hear this egregious error. It is horrid enough to ask for food "to go" when you are retreating from your own family table, but to ask for one at a social gathering, especially one for such a celebrated occasion, is beyond contempt. I was embarrassed for the hostess of the event as well as for the guest of honor. Judging by what these ladies wore to the luncheon, it was no surprise that they made such a request (see my previous post about Dressing When Out). I try not to "judge a book by its cover", but when I have, I have never been incorrect.

Ladies, please, I implore you, keep up with your reading of my columns. You always want to be correct about your behavior as not to make others feel uncomfortable. Know that the art of manners is for the benefit of others, not for elevating yourself. There is surely a black mark next to these ladies' names in many an address book now, unfortunately. Don't let this happen to you, dear reader. Stay true to the rules and you will be welcome at any party.

Until next time...

HF

Etiquette: Soup's On

Dear Reader,

My, it has been quite some time since I have shared my knowledge with you! I apologize, but I have been abroad and busy these last few months. But now, I hope to be back to my column on a more regular basis. You understand, dear, the busy life of a socialite. You, too, can acheive this lifestyle as I have; it won't take much time at all if you follow my advice to the letter!

To-day's lesson is that of how to consume soup. As the crisp, wintery months approach, I am sure that many of you will offer soups and stews to your families, and it is most important that they know how to enjoy these delightful dishes. Firstly, soups and stews should be served in a bowl, not on a plate. I know that some feel that if a stew is hearty enough, it may be served on a plate. Not so. All one is left with is a mess. These dishes shall be eaten with a place spoon (not a teaspoon) and the spoon should ALWAYS collect the soup/stew as you push the spoon away from you, not toward you. The spoon is then delicately lifted upward to the area in front of your mouth (you are sitting up straight in your chair, of course). Then, you may place the spoon in your mouth and eat the soup. Never, ever, suck the soup or stew off of the spoon; this is most ungracious to your host and utterly rude behavior. Eating is a quiet activity. Continue these actions until you have emptied the bowl. Now, there is always a little remainder of soup left in the bottom. That is exactly where it is to stay, unless the hostess has provided you with a soup with handles--in this instance only, you may pick up the bowl and drink from it directly. Although this is acceptable, I still feel that it is a little undignified. You wouldn't see QE II performing such a sordid action at a state dinner!

I hope that to-day's lesson will assist you in your program. Press on, dear! You will achieve your beauty and charming best!

Until next time...

HF