26/11/2020
Thanksgiving Day has always been my favorite holiday. I live in Michigan in the USA.. Regardless if it's snowy or the gentle crispness of Fall, Thanksgiving Day is loaded with the smell favorite foods cooking, the colors of the season, and the feeling that comes with the connection of family and friends sharing a meal.
Thanksgiving can be especially memorable when connecting with those you haven’t been in touch with for a long time. It has the feeling of "Coming Home." It is Thanksgiving Eve, so bit late to take a dining class for tomorrow; but to add to your comfort level, here are a few tips to help guide you thru enjoying this wonderful and special Holiday.
Always plan to arrive before the expected time to eat:
Simply, It is respectful. Especially to those who take time to make the day special. Life does happen. Things change. So if you will be late, Call. Tell the host/ hostess that you will be late and to NOT wait for you. Regardless of the reason, you should never expect dinner to be held because your lateness.
Offer to help: Not only is it fun to take part, but takes pressure off the host/hostess. I know from experience, before the turkey is out of the oven or after everyone has eaten, the cook/s are more than ready for help. Offer to help rather than waiting to be asked. Simply say, “How can I help?” Maybe you can serve drinks, get ice, park cars, help setting the table or empty the garbage can. Maybe you can keep small children busy, or walk the dog. Doing the smallest thing can have a positive impact. I assume your help will be welcomed before and after the meal.
Step up your game, as you give some thought to what you’ll wear on Thanksgiving.
Be well groomed. Take time to Dress well while knowing Comfort is King. No need to go over the top, but take time to ‘perk things up’ for the holiday. Yes, Simple, easy and comfortable. But keep the over-relaxed ‘grunge look’ for home or mowing the lawn. You get the idea. Setting the stage, I bet you’ll hear plenty of compliments. And, of all things, Wear a Smile, and unload the cell phone while at the table.
When it's dinner time: Ask the host/hostess where they would like you to sit. Enjoy the food, the conversations and be mindful of alcohol consumption. Less is actually more. Listen and share in table conversation that includes others. If no one is talking, pick topics of how good the dinner is, and ask others about their favorite or memorable Thanksgiving. (often that is enough, and fun) You can always discuss movies, current events, or ask a question or two of someone’s recent vacation, or career change. Share your joy, and always speak positive words, by avoiding anything political, or personal in conversations such as health, money or relationships unless it is something happy as an announcement of an a new job, engagement, etc.
Relax, Smile and Make eye contact as you talk: Sit comfortably, but up straight. Savor the taste of your food while eating slowly as you chew your food with your lips sealed. ***Most of all, don’t forget to complement everyone who took part in preparing the meal.
I hope these few tips will help you ease through Thanksgiving Day making it enjoyable. When dinner is done, and the kitchen is cleaned up, it’s a great time for watching Football, enjoying board games, or taking a snooze on the sofa.
Would you like to feel confident and comfortable with your dining skills? My book: “How to Eat a Dinner Roll” is available on Amazon or contacting me directly at [email protected]
Image Enhancement and Image for MEN offer various Image coaching & consulting services plus training programs. I offer packages to help you in Appearance, Grooming, Wardrobe, plus enhancing various areas of your life. Business and Social Etiquette, Dining Etiquette and Business Entertaining are often included in image packages customized for you, or your company. To learn more: Contact me at: [email protected] or 616-777-7440
The New You, The Polished You, The Confident You are waiting for you to present your best in 2021 feeling powerful while dressed comfortably.
Until we meet, Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours,
Debra Carr
