The articles which were sent to me made references to the more casual style dressing by the First Lady which was displayed on our president’s European trip ,  the style of greeting  towards heads of states ,especially the  Queen of England, and to the lack of decorum for picture taking.  As I stated, this isn’t about politics.  It is however about decorum and protocol or as some in the media have said lack of protocol.

I do believe that at all times we need to strive to put our best foot forward when meeting someone.  It says a lot about ourselves and the respect we have for others and ourselves.   I know the White House has a protocol staff which is there to instruct the President and  First Lady on issues of protocol.

I am interested in what you think about these articles and pictures which have been written and shown during and since the President’s trip abroad.  Is there a more casual presence in the White House?  Are people blowing this out of proportion?  Is our country being represented in the best light as far as protocol is concerned?  What are your thoughts?

Questions or comments are always appreciated.

Ginny Brown
The Etiquette School of Northeast Georgia
Hoschton, Georgia (Hamilton Mill area, Dacula, GA)
Email Ginny Brown
678-889-4814 office
770-296-4159 cell

http://etiquette-blog.com

Check your appearance.  Make sure your clothes are pressed and clean.  Check your personal hygiene.  Be sure to check your breath.  You don’t want to knock your date over with bad breath!  Instead, knock him/her over with looking the best that you can.  Watch the perfume and cologne.  Don’t go overboard with the good smelling fragrances.  Comb the hair, tuck in the shirt tail, and polish the shoes .  Now put on a great smile and have fun.

Meet the parents.  Whether you are nervous or not, you want to make a good impression on your date and the parents.  When meeting the parents shake their hands and look them in the eye while introducing yourself.  When leaving, tell them it was nice to meet them.  Young men remember  to hold the door for your date while leaving the house and while getting into the car.  Your date will be impressed with your  manners.

Eating at the restaurant.  You want to remember that you are trying to make a good impression.  Remember to chew with your mouth closed, don’t talk with food in your mouth,  no burping, don’t put your face in your plate and shovel your food in like it’s your last meal, put your napkin in your lap, don’t use a toothpick, and young men please hold the chair for your date.   This is your time  to shine with your date and friends.

Remember to thank your chaperons for giving of their time to make prom night possible.  It takes a lot of community effort to host prom.  People appreciate it when their efforts are recognized.

Ginny Brown
The Etiquette School of Northeast Georgia
Hoschton, Georgia (Hamilton Mill area, Dacula, GA)
Email Ginny Brown
678-889-4814 office
770-296-4159 cell

http://etiquette-blog.com

Yes Ma’am and Yes Sir

They talked about how they were raised, and she told him that this type of behavior was just in her nature.  When she confronted him if he ever called people “Ma’am” or “Sir” he replied “no”.  The reason which he gave was because the people hadn’t earned his respect.  She on the other hand had been taught to be kind and friendly to everyone unless they were overly rude to her.  She believed in the basic belief of courtesy and respect.

What do you think about this type of behavior?  Do you think it is important to be courteous and respectful to others?  Does this display good etiquette and good  manners?  Do you like to be treated with respect?  If you have a chance to read this article, it’s a good one and has an appropriate ending.

I would love some feedback on this.  Please feel free to comment on what your thoughts are.

Ginny Brown
The Etiquette School of Northeast Georgia
Hoschton, Georgia (Hamilton Mill area, Dacula, GA)
Email Ginny Brown
678-889-4814 office
770-296-4159 cell

http://etiquette-blog.com