Dinner Table Etiquette: Napkins

Dinner Table Etiquette has become a lost art. I’m the Meet Me at the Dinner Table lady, and I don’t even know the “proper” way to do things. This is a huge topic, though, and one that can only be taken in small doses, so let’s start with using your napkin.

If you’re a guest at a party, wait until the host/hostess unfolds their napkin, and this is your cue to do the same.

Do these things with your napkins:

• Place them on the left hand side of your plate when you’re finished with the meal
• Unfold them  (rather than shake them open) to begin meal

Don’t do these things with your napkins:

• Wipe your nose
• Leave it on your chair
• Crumple it up
• Clean cutlery
• Shake them open