Weddings are a time of celebration—and stress for some involved—when they are in the same town. Throw in an invitation to a destination wedding when budgets are tight and the kids have a full calendar, and the sweetness can quickly sour. It’s understandable, as destination weddings can pose some hardships for the guests, from who […] The post Destination Wedding Etiquette and FAQs appeared first on Diane Gottsman | Leading Etiquette Expert | Modern Manners Authority ..read more

In the summer of 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. delivered one of the most inspiring and thought-provoking speeches in American history. He called for racial equality, justice, and a fair and equal world for everyone, with a future filled with hope. How can we honor him today? How can we honor each other and show […] The post How to Talk to Your Kids About Martin Luther King Jr.’s Life & Legacy appeared first on Diane Gottsman | Leading Etiquette Expert | Modern Manners Authority ..read more

A second interview is often conducted over a meal as a standard practice when the candidate applies for a role that requires strong customer/client interaction. The goal of a lunch interview is for the employer to discreetly observe the potential hire and determine whether they are a corporate fit based on their ability to interact […] The post Job Interview Skills Over a Meal: Dining Etiquette Quiz appeared first on Diane Gottsman | Leading Etiquette Expert | Modern Manners Authority ..read more

Do you have a gently used purse, tote, or athletic bag you don’t know what to do with, taking up space in your closet? Rather than stashing items away in a drawer, or throwing them in the trash, do something nice for the less fortunate and declutter your home in the process. There are plenty […] The post Kindness in a Bag for the Less Fortunate appeared first on Diane Gottsman | Leading Etiquette Expert | Modern Manners Authority ..read more

According to a study conducted by Harvard, Stanford, and the Carnegie Foundation, 85% of your job success comes from establishing well-developed social skills, leaving only 15% of your professional success to technical aptitude. There is value in honing your skills which will benefit you personally and professionally. Think about it. People connect with people they […] The post Update and Refine Your Social Skills for 2025 appeared first on Diane Gottsman | Leading Etiquette Expert | Modern Manners Authority ..read more

The season of merriment and magic—filled with holiday baking, cookie decorating, gift exchanges, and more—has arrived! With so much to see, do, and celebrate, it’s also the perfect time to brush up on your best and brightest manners before attending festive gatherings. Here are 10 essential tips for holiday guests in 2024 to help you […] The post How to Be a Mannerly Guest This Holiday Season appeared first on Diane Gottsman | Leading Etiquette Expert | Modern Manners Authority ..read more

  Holiday shopping is in full swing, and it can be quite stressful to decide who gets what on your list. The time and effort you spend guessing can be alleviated when your friend or family member gives you some very direct, pointed “hints” in the form of a wish list. A holiday wish list […] The post Holiday Wish List Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts appeared first on Diane Gottsman | Leading Etiquette Expert | Modern Manners Authority ..read more

December travel is officially here! Even the most prepared packer may forget the basics in a holiday hurry. I’ve been known to leave a charger behind (more than once) and even drove away without my cell phone one time—oops! Making a list and checking it twice works wonders for Santa and for each of us. […] The post 2024 Holiday Travel Checklist appeared first on Diane Gottsman | Leading Etiquette Expert | Modern Manners Authority ..read more

The magic, song, and sparkle of the holiday season are here to lift our spirits and delight children everywhere! As you deck the halls, add tinsel to your tree, and stock up on festive wrapping paper, you may also be turning your attention to who you’ll be tipping in bright red or gold envelopes this […] The post Holiday Cheer & Cash: Your 2024 Holiday Tipping Guide appeared first on Diane Gottsman | Leading Etiquette Expert | Modern Manners Authority ..read more

’Tis the season for festive gatherings, favorite traditions, and time spent with family and friends. If you’ll be hosting this Thanksgiving—or beyond—there are so many tips and tricks to make the process more enjoyable for everyone involved. Part of your role as a host is to keep your spirits bright. The right mindset puts guests […] The post How to Be a Gracious Thanksgiving (and Every Holiday) Host appeared first on Diane Gottsman | Leading Etiquette Expert | Modern Manners Authority ..read more