Etiquette: Hostess Gifts

Dear Reader,

To-day's post is a rather exclusive one, geared toward those ladies who have been invited to a certain luncheon in town tomorrow. I could not arrive at this event tomorrow not having prepared the rest of you to arrive in the same manner as I will--with gift in hand!

Whenever a lady of charm and poise is invited to someone's home for a meal, she must ALWAYS bring a hostess gift along with her. Typically, for an evening meal, this is a bottle of wine, a special dessert, flowers, or some nice personal gift (like a favorite perfume, etc., but only if you are close, personal friends) for the lady of the house. It is a way to thank the hostess in advance for the invitation. Ladies, please, I will be taking notes tomorrow to see how many of you pass the grade. It is such a small thing to ask of you--please do not disappoint.

Now, referring to one of my previous posts, after the event has taken place, it is most important that a lady of taste write a thank you note to the hostess, complimenting her on the fine event and on the "lovely time" that she had. This is the least that one must do. One may additionally send a nice bouquet of flowers as well, and even before the event.

Dear reader, I hope to see you in full charming form tomorrow, with gift in hand, a well put together costume, and a perfectly applied make-up. Don't forget those few dabs of perfume, too!

Until next time...

HF

Charm: Hate to Eat and Run

Dear Reader,

To-day's post is one that is a definite "must read". I hope that you will take the time to-day to allow my words to penetrate your thoughts--one must never make the mistake I am about to describe...

To-day's topic is not about eating and running, but rather eating and motoring, or eating anywhere in public outside of a restaurant, for that matter. Oh reader, always remember that food and beverage are meant to be consumed in one's private home, a private club, or in a restaurant. How uncivilized it is to see people motoring around in their cars or walking on the street while eating or drinking. It is most disgusting. These sordid actions send the message that "I don't have enough money or class to enjoy elixirs and edibles at a civil, leisurely pace". Those of the higher classes have plenty of time to enjoy the finer things. It is those of the lower brow who must always rush around, trying to get from one place to the next, trying to make ends meet or because of poor organization. These are those who end up having to "eat and run". It simply isn't worth it, dear reader, especially if you want to project a polished, charming demeanor. A carefree attitude is the prescription needed here. Even if you don't have the funds to pursue a less hectic lifestyle, by all means, at least be organized enough about your daily routine to appear that you do. No gentleman of charm is in want to pursue a maiden who is too busy to "slow down" and have concern about his own needs. And it is all about caring for those gentleman that God would place in our paths, isn't it? Press on, dear reader. You will one day thank me for my advice, and I will send you a wink and a smile as I see you walk down that aisle to wedded happiness.

Until next time...

HF