Got Etiquette Advice?

  Etiquette is basically the protocol we use in any given situation.   It is the behavior expected of us.   Still, not everyone is comfortable with their knowledge of what is considered proper or appropriate.   On an average day, I will receive questions about all aspects of etiquette. Here are a few questions from some of our readers.   One thing you may notice in my responses is that the etiquette I suggest makes sense.   It is logical.   Shirtless Party? Hi Polite One , Is it improper to go shirtless on a hot summer day at a backyard barbeque with friends and close family members? Shirtless Dear Shirtless, If this is a pool party, it would be fine as many would be shirtless and in swimsuits.   However, if it is simply a dinner party or gathering, it is best to remain clothed.   Ask yourself if it would be an appropriate time for the ladies to be wearing swimsuits or go shirtless.   If the answer is no, then the men s...

Dear Polite One, When I don't need to use a knife, how do I use the fork alone? For example, when eating string pasta, I don't need a knife. My thought is that there is no reason to switch fork from left hand to right, whereas my more knowledgeable wife insists it is better to use a single utensil in your dominant hand. Fork Advice Dear Fork Advice, Repeat after me: my wife is always right.  My wife is always right.  In this case, she is. When using only your fork , you would use your dominant hand. Sincerely, The Polite One More by The Polite One How to Eat Hard to Fork Foods Stab or Scoop with a Fork? How to Use the Continental method?

Dear Polite One , How do I scoop food onto a fork?   Do I just use my knife, or can I use my finger as well? Scooping Dear Scooping, Please do not use your finger; it is not good table manners .   You can use your bread or knife to assist in scooping food onto your fork. Sincerely, The Polite One More by The Polite One Mix or eat all of one item on a plate? How do I eat toast during breakfast? It’s Just Food

  Dear Polite One, How do I eat toast during breakfast? Because they are crisp, I don't feel that I should cut it with a knife.   Do, I just take bites from the entire piece? Toasted Dear Toasted, Toast is finger food.  Cut the toast into quarters with your knife.  If it is not buttered, butter it and add jam if you wish.   Eat each quarter in small bites.   Sincerely, The Polite One More by The Polite One Eating From a Common Dish It’s Just Food How to Set a Table For Pre-Plated Dinner     

Dear Polite One, Let's say my partner and I have a coupon for a dinner at a restaurant with another couple. Should we split the bill evenly before using the coupon or use the coupon to pay for the entire meal and split the difference of the remaining bill.  Basically, I'm asking if the coupon can be used the same as cash to pay one couple's part of the bill and not share it with the other couple . Sincerely, Using Coupons Dear Using Coupons, Using coupons is becoming more and more common, so this is a timely question. For appearance’s sake, it would be best to use the coupon when they are alone unless they intend to share the bill.  Sharing the coupon could be viewed as a gesture demonstrating generosity.  But, not sharing it does not imply selfish behavior. Sincerely, The Polite One More by The Polite One Do we pay for our guests to a private golf course? Should Americans bow & curtsy for royalty? What comes after the 3rd?