• The Host Eats First – The host or the guest of honor should be the first one to take a bite of food at a fancy event center party. It can look bad if you dig into your meal before the guest of honor, whether that means the birthday girl or the bride and groom. There are some exceptions, like when the host specifically instructs you to begin eating, so be aware at your event. 

• Put Your Napkin on Your Lap – One of the first things you should do when sitting down at a fancy table is put the napkin on your lap. Unless you’re at a seafood restaurant and the waiter gives you a plastic bib, never ever put your napkin around your neck. 

• Only Touch Communal Food with Serving Ware – As tempting as it may be to grab a dinner roll or dip your spoon in sauce, you should only touch communal food with tongs, serving spoons, or other designated serving ware. We are often tempted to use our own cutlery to take sauces, salads, or family style food, but it is not hygienic for the other guests. 

• Don’t Drink Your Soup – No matter how delicious the soup may be or how badly you want to enjoy every last drop, do not drink your soup from the bowl. Similarly, avoid cooling your food by blowing on it. This is especially true for liquids as blowing on a liquid in a spoon can splatter it all over the table. 

• Put Used Cutlery on Your Plate – If you have to get up from your seat or you are finished eating, put your used cutlery on the side of your plate rather than on the table. Putting soiled cutlery on the table can stain the table or cloth, which is rude. When you are finished eating, do not put your napkin on your used plate as it will be stained by the food. Instead, fold it neatly and place it beside your plate. 

• B for Bread, D for Drink – In a formal banquet setting, you should use the bread on the left side of your seat and the drink on the right side. As a trick to remember, make a lowercase “b” and “d” with your fingers and they will correspond to the proper sides. You don’t want to drink someone else’s drink or eat someone else’s bread! 

These are just a few common rules to follow when attending an elegant event. Want more tips on etiquette or planning an event at a McAllen, TX event center ? Call or visit us today.