Monday Manners

Ever wonder what Kate thinks? I sure do and that's why I religiously reread her charming yet quirky book, Manners. I suggest you should do the same. I can't think of anything more unattractive than bad manners (okay I lied, white tennis shoes may be worse).

"Some Timeless Advice on Making Conversation"

Good conversation is all about the give and take - Excel at each.

Think before you speak - What's said can't be taken back.

When talking about your children, easy does it - Touting your child's skills or appearance can be offputting to your listener. The same holds true for pets.

The weather - Uniquely boring.

Boasting is boring too.*

Don't worry about being clever - Be genuine, be yourself.

(via Manners by Kate Spade)

*My number one pet peeve, don't even think about it when you are in my presence. 

Monday Manners

Along with moving out of the parents house comes the urge to host fabulous dinner parties. But then life and reality set in and your frequently fabulous dinner parties that you have played out a million times end up happening, once, maybe twice a year if you are lucky. Regardless of the amount of times your dream dinner parties come true, a girl MUST know how to do it right... enters Manners by Kate Spade.

This cute little book has been my go to for numerous occasions. Kate Spade sums it best, "Life is a bowl of cherries - as long as you know what to do with the pits."

So here lies the answers to all your questions you may have about serving wine at your next fabulous dinner party.

Quantity - Estimate one bottle of wine for every two people. It's better than having extra than not enough.

Wine Glasses - Set out glasses for each type of wine you plan to serve.

Sequence - Traditionally white before red and dry before sweet.

Holding the Glass - For room-temperature wines, hold wine glasses or goblets under the bowl. Chilled wines should be held by the stem of the glass.

I hope Kate can help you out as much as she helped me. May your next dinner party be your best!

(text via Manners by Kate Spade and photo via)