As seen on: Cuisine Noir Magazine As spring officially starts, many will welcome the season with a tea party.  As the flowers begin to bloom and the leaves return to the trees, it is the perfect time to host or attend a tea party. As with dining etiquette, it is important to exhibit proper manners at a tea party.  Your decorum will be on display and here are some guidelines…

As seen on: Cuisine Noir Magazine In honor of Black History Month, many theaters will spotlight Black educational and entertainment programming.  From local schools to New York’s Broadway, performances in theaters will range from a child reading an excerpt from Martin Luther King, Jr. to a spectacular performance by the Alvin Ailey Dance Theater. It is important that you adhere to theater etiquette, not only out of respect for other audience…

As seen on: Cuisine Noir Magazine It is now time to gear up for the new year and mentally prepare to make changes to “become a better you.”  Some people refer to these changes as New Year’s resolutions. Others list these transformations as goals or self-improvements.  Research concluded that the top four changes people initiate are diet, healthy eating, finances and exercise. With exercise among the four listed, what a…

As seen on: Cuisine Noir Magazine The term faux pas is a French word that means “misstep” or “false step.”  The expression originated during the 1600s with King Louis XIV.  During his reign, dance was highly regarded.  To make a false step was one of the greatest errors a courtier could make at the Palace of Versailles.  Wikipedia defines faux pas (pronounced fo pa) as a violation of accepted social…

As seen on: Cuisine Noir Magazine Have you ever bumped into a friend that you have not seen in years and the first words uttered from her mouth are, “Please excuse the way I look, I know I look a mess however I usually don’t look this way.  I was just making a quick stop at the store, hoping not to run into anyone and of course I would.” Sound…

As seen on: The Little Pink Book You may not think twice about embracing an old colleague or long-time business partner you see at a conference or work event. But is it professional? “A lot of professionals are starting to address this, especially females who feel they need to hug to show friendliness,” Tina Hayes, founder of The School of Etiquette and Decorum, tells PINK. She warns that some may…

As seen on: Cuisine Noir Magazine “Wine is bottled poetry.” – Robert Louis Stevenson Wine tasting affords one the opportunity to sample a variety of wines in a cost-efficient manner.  A tasting can take place in a winery, tasting room, friend’s home, or at a special event.  Recently, I had the opportunity to meet and learn from some of Mendocino County’s finest winemakers at The Taste of Mendocino, held in San…

As seen on: The Associated Press Keeping guests comfortable and entertained while dining al fresco can seem daunting. But a few fun items can help you create a cozy space, serve summer foods with flair, and send guests on their way with a reminder of a special backyard barbecue or patio party. These 10 outdoor dinner party essentials are easy to find, easy to use and easy on the budget:…

As seen on: Cuisine Noir Magazine Are you familiar with the song, “Family Reunion” by the R&B group, The O’Jays?  The lyrics convey the message of a joyous time for “the family” to come together and celebrate their heritage. The song summarizes the gratitude and excitement surrounding a family assembly. A family reunion is a grand opportunity to spend quality time with relatives.  Your gathering may be as simple as a backyard…

As seen on: Cuisine Noir Magazine Airplane etiquette is more important now than in years past. Often, flights are filled to capacity and running behind schedule. The seating space is limited and many times airlines lack amenities such as food, blankets, pillows, movies, etc.The number one rule while flying is to treat others with the highest degree of respect. Follow the Golden Rule and treat others the way you would like to…