As the festive season gets into full swing, a leading etiquette expert has revealed that good old-fashioned manners are far from obsolete. Despite research suggesting many in Gen Z believe common rules of conduct have fallen by the wayside, renowned coach Myka Meier insists proper dining etiquette remains a powerful reflection of character.
Meier, founder of the prestigious Beaumont Etiquette school, told the Daily Mail that table manners exist not just for ourselves, but for everyone at the table. She emphasised that the way we act, speak, and treat others during a meal creates an atmosphere of respect that allows all guests to relax and enjoy the experience.
'Dining manners say a lot about you, especially as a guest, and they are very easy to learn,' Meier stated. 'Good dining manners are not just for formal occasions or dinner parties but should be used every day and will set you apart.'
The Five Little-Known Rules of Gracious Dining
Meier shared several commonly forgotten etiquette rules that can transform any meal, from a family dinner to a formal gathering, into a more considerate and enjoyable occasion.
Always Pass Salt and Pepper Together
Even if someone specifically requests only one, you should always pass both the salt and pepper shakers as a pair. Meier explained this prevents the table from becoming lopsided with condiments scattered everywhere. This simple act also helps maintain the flow of conversation, as both seasonings remain easy to locate without interrupting the table's discussion.
Pause Eating When Someone Speaks
To show genuine attentiveness to whoever is talking, particularly during toasts or important announcements, you should pause your eating. 'Putting your fork down signals that the person has your full attention, which makes conversations feel more thoughtful and respectful,' Meier advised. She added that this practice helps create a calmer, more connected dining atmosphere, something people particularly appreciate during the hectic holiday season.
Tear Bread Into Small Bites
Resist the urge to bite directly into a bread roll. Instead, tear it into smaller, more manageable pieces. Meier noted that this method is simply neater and easier, preventing a shower of crumbs and the social mishap of having a mouth too full to speak. This approach maintains elegance and facilitates easier conversation throughout the meal.
Offer Food and Slow Your Pace
If there is only one piece of something left on a shared platter, always offer it to those around you before taking it. 'If they decline, you're welcome to enjoy it,' Meier said. 'But the simple common courtesy of offering to others first shows selflessness and awareness of others.' She also urged diners to slow down, noting that rushing through a meal can create mess and make others feel pressured. Pacing yourself to finish around the same time as your fellow diners creates a more relaxed, welcoming experience for everyone.
Hold Your Silverware Correctly
One of the most common yet easily rectified mistakes involves incorrectly holding cutlery. Meier outlined the two primary methods: the American style and the Continental style. The American method involves holding the fork in your left hand and the knife in your right, then switching the fork to your dominant hand after cutting. The Continental style, meanwhile, requires keeping the knife in your dominant hand and the fork in your non-dominant hand throughout the entire meal. Mastering either technique can significantly improve your presentation at the table.
These five rules, Meier assures, are simple to learn but make a profound difference in how you are perceived and how comfortable you make others feel. As we enter a season filled with shared meals, these timeless principles of etiquette offer a blueprint for creating more respectful and enjoyable gatherings.
