Polite Society School of Étiquette

Welcome

Polite Society School of Étiquette offers a variety of courses. Beginning Étiquette Course, Afternoon Tea Étiquette Course, Protocol, Decorum, & Savoir-Faire Course, and The Story of Tea Course. Étiquette tutelage is presented at speaking engagements, instructional webinars, school seminars, private dinners, and specialty tea events. The School's mission is to educate adults and children in customary codes of conduct with an emphasis on everyday social skills. History of étiquette, social graces, dining principles, table setting instructions, appropriate dress attire, protocol, decorum, and other useful étiquette techniques along with the essentials of preparing a “Proper” Afternoon Tea are incorporated in the curriculum. Polite Society School of Étiquette provides rules for living in our society that will enable students to feel comfortable and confident in all social situations. All courses include foods and beverages as teaching aids. Interactive online training courses are available.

Thursday, December 21, 2017

Featured in Tea Time Magazine!

TEA TIME MAGAZINE

Featured in Tea Time Magazine

November/December Issue

I am thrilled to be a part of Tea Time Magazine. Each time I recive my magazine in the mail, I sit with a cup of tea and enjoy all of the fabulous articles.

A special thank you to Ms. Lorna Reeves, Editor, Ms. Betty Terry, Associate Editor, and of course the darling Brian Hoffman, CCO!

An incredible group to work with.

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM:

Ms. Bernadette M. Petrotta
Founder & Director
Polite Society School of Etiquette

Author
The Art of the Social Graces
The Art and Proper Etiquette of Afternoon Tea
EMMA The Etiquette Cat: Meet Emma

Website: PoliteSocietySchool.com
Email: PoliteSocietySchool@Whidbey.com
Blog: PoliteSocietySchool.blogspot.com

Monday, December 18, 2017

THE 12 JOYS OF CHRISTMAS #12

The traditions and rituals of the festive season are a delight at this time of year. Take inspiration from ENGLISH HOME MAGAZINE to help magnify the magic of Christmas.

#12 - Boxing Day Walks

Heading out for a blast of fresh air after a day spent indoors is a welcome change in a Christmas schedule full of eating, drinking and making merry.

Whatever the weather, donning hand-knitted jumpers and oversized coats is par for the course, as are wellies and woolen knee socks. Though it is true that wrapping up against the elements is something of a necessity, making a noble nod to physical activity at this time of year is worth undertaking.

For the truly active, Boxing Day is a time for sports, be it bracing outdoor group swims, a day at the races or a football match!

As anyone will attest, returning home rosy cheeked after a reinvigorating day spent in the fresh air, provides welcome succor at the end of the day.

THE 12 JOYS OF CHRISTMAS #11

The traditions and rituals of the festive season are a delight at this time of year. Take inspiration from ENGLISH HOME MAGAZINE to help magnify the magic of Christmas.

#11 - Christmas Games

With paper crowns firmly in place and cracker jokes exchanged, the multi-generational Christmas games can begin.

Board games are a perennial favorite, and provide ample opportunity for friendly rivalry. The jovial squabble over preferred Monopoly pieces - woe betide the family member who tries to purloin the silver top hat from Granny - soon gives way to hours lost in pleasurable pursuit of the end goal.

Though the sofa may beckon after the Christmas repast, parlor games reinvigorate proceedings, with endless rounds of Charades and Sardines leading to much laughter and jovial antics.

If young ones - or even the young at heart - have excess enthusiasm to be channelled, then a compelling round or two of Blindman’s Bluff, or even Wink Murder, is an effective way to bring the day to a close.

THE 12 JOYS OF CHRISTMAS #10

The traditions and rituals of the festive season are a delight at this time of year. Take inspiration from ENGLISH HOME MAGAZINE to help magnify the magic of Christmas.

#10 - The Christmas Feast

A decadent mid-morning glass of champagne is par for the course when setting the tone for a day of Christmas feasting. Whether the feast takes place in daylight hours or towards the end of the day, when the approaching dusk sets an atmospheric tone amid flickering candlelight, a suitable festive breakfast is in order to whet the appetite. Creaming scrambled eggs sit atop coral strips of smoked salmon or carved slices of home-baked ham, alongside golden brown toast rich with butter and citrus-fresh marmalade.

The turkey in all its burnished glory takes its rightful place at the centre of the spread, surrounded by golden roast potatoes crisped in goose fat hot from the oven. The enticing aroma of herb-flecked stuffing wafts from within the bronzed bird, whilst the surrounding platter bears pigs in blankets nestled into the nooks and crevices of plump thighs and juicy drumsticks. Tureens of carrots and Brussels sprouts dotted with melted butter sit alongside the gravy boat, itself teetering precariously under the weight of the delicious juices, whilst a bowl of vibrant cranberry sauce provides a zesty counterpoint to the rich flavors.

Slipping a treat to the dog under the table allows room for the traditional centerpiece Christmas pudding - carried to the table with a sprig of holly, it is then set ablaze with brandy, or whisky for a Scottish twist, adding a touch of drama to the feast. Served with cream and anointed with a further splash of neat spirits, or with brandy butter for richness, this is the most festive of sweet treats.

After a nip of digestif to settle the stomach, the cheeseboard beckons, with tempting mature hard varieties, voluptuous soft-rind offerings and fresh young cheese accompanied by homemade chutney and a token sprig of celery.

Come early evening after a post-prandial snooze, stomachs rumbling anew take everyone by surprise. Though the main meal may have taken place but a few hours previously, nothing is quite as fitting an end to the day as enjoying a mince pie or a slice of Christmas cake with a cup of tea whilst curled up on the sofa.

THE 12 JOYS OF CHRISTMAS #9

The traditions and rituals of the festive season are a delight at this time of year. Take inspiration from ENGLISH HOME MAGAZINE to help magnify the magic of Christmas.

#9 - Christmas Eve and the Morning Awakening

Putting pen to paper is never a more thrilling project as a child than when the recipient is Father Christmas. The charmingly innocent candor with which wishlists are compiled in missives to the North Pole cannot fail to melt hearts as well as cause a few chuckles. Children sending a letter via Polar Post will receive a personalized letter in return from Father Christmas, hand-addressed by the elves.

The palpable sense of excitement that starts long before 24 December gathers momentum when stockings are hung by the fireplace, and mince pies and whisky are left out for Father Christmas and his team - not forgetting a carrot for Rudolph too, or course. Overnight, whilst the elves are hard at work fueled by their midnight feast, stockings change from from their smooth outlines to multidimensional creations bearing oddly-shaped bulges and unusual angles. Inside, perennial favorites such as beautiful notebooks, and of course, the obligatory satsuma and bag of chocolate gold coins lie, waiting to be discovered.

Waking up to see presents under the tree proves a dizzying rush matched only by the excitement of sharing the moment with loved ones. Small hands with palms clammy in anticipation clasp those of adults, themselves charmed by the evident delight of children who cannot quite believe their eyes. Propelled by sheer joy and elation, opening fights sees each unwrapped parcel prompt deep-felt reactions from all those around.

THE 12 JOYS OF CHRISTMAS #8

The traditions and rituals of the festive season are a delight at this time of year. Take inspiration from ENGLISH HOME MAGAZINE to help magnify the magic of Christmas.

#8 - Christmas Crafts

There is something deeply satisfying about producing key elements of home decor at Christmas time. When time and resources are in plentiful supply, nothing quite sates the creative appetite like seeing through a crafting process from start to finish.

Long before even the first snowflake has fallen or the temperature has dipped into single figures, fashioning advent calendars unique to their eventual owner may seem like a fanciful notion. However, it neatly focuses the attention whilst simultaneously offering an outlet for all things festive ahead of the twelfth month of the year. Likewise, drawing up a list of Christmas cards to be dispatched becomes pleasurable when the cards in question have been lovingly hand-crafted.

Wreaths, table centerpieces and table settings all seem better for a home-make touch. Children will be delighted with hand-stitched stockings to hang above the fireplace, ready for a visit from Father Christmas.

As if their presence were not a gift enough, their unbridled joy for the festive season also translates into a multitude of craft activities, including creating traditional pomanders, name settings for the table and cut-out snowflakes.

THE 12 JOYS OF CHRISTMAS #7

The traditions and rituals of the festive season are a delight at this time of year. Take inspiration from ENGLISH HOME MAGAZINE to help magnify the magic of Christmas.

#7 - Drinks Parties

The art of hosting comes into its own in December, when the telltale thud of thick card invitations landing on the doormat occurs with pleasing regularity.

Having a drinks party takes on a special meaning at Christmas, when social circles intermingle and those who may not normally cross paths enjoy raising a glass together in the spirit of the festive season.

There is a thrilling sense of anticipation that goes hand-in-hand with preparation, whether as host or as a guest. Dress codes may be more relaxed in modern times but still, dressing up in festive finery or a gaudy Christmas jumper marks the beginning of the evening, be it a formal champagne reception or a cosy kitchen affair amongst close friends.

Inevitably at Christmas time, where there are drinks, there a canapés: devils on horseback with salt strips of bacon wrapped around plump juicy prunes and smoked-salmon blinis topped with cream cheese and caviar, and perhaps a squeeze of lemon. Other savoury treats might include freshly baked mouthfuls of flaky pastry in the form of vol-au-vents, mini tartlets and parmesan twists, whilst on the pudding side of things, mini mince pies and candied chestnuts are perfectly bite-sized for the sweet of touch. Now is the time of year, too, to tempt guests with a delicious selection of cheeses alongside smoked salmon and to indulge puddings treats.

NEW REVISED EDITION - The Art of Timeless Étiquette, Graceful Dining Manners, & Afternoon Tea

The Polite School of Étiquette presents Volume V, The Art of Timeless Étiquette, Graceful Dining Manners, & Afternoon Tea Revised Edition, featuring Social Graces, Étiquette History, Introduction Methods, Entertaining Guidelines, Correspondence Protocol, History of Tableware, Dining out Manners, American and Continental Style Dining, Appropriate Dress Attire, Personal Care and Home Management, History of Tea, Types of Tea, Tea Pairings and Tastings, Afternoon Tea in England, Tea Food Dining Instructions, and Formalities for Preparing a “Proper” Afternoon Tea. This revised edition is an updated compilation of Volume I, Volume II, and Volume IV with additional étiquette information and home management guidelines. The Art of Timeless Étiquette, Graceful Dining Manners, & Afternoon Tea Revised Edition offers practical knowledge in basic social skills for all occasions and settings and includes useful information and advice to enhance one’s lifestyle in the social and business world. It takes the reader through a brief history of étiquette, offers introduction methods and conversation techniques, provides guidelines for entertaining, presents illustrations for formal, informal, and family style table settings, and explains the difference between Continental and American Style dining. It also provides instructions on the proper way to consume soups, beverages, tea, coffee, and various difficult foods. With beautiful photographs, exquisite china, gleaming silver, and stunning floral bouquets, The Art of Timeless Étiquette, Graceful Dining Manners, & Afternoon Tea Revised Edition delights the senses with elegant and picturesque table settings, antique teacups, and beautiful linens. Together these elements form the foundation for an elegant table setting. In the chapters dedicated to Afternoon Tea, detailed information is provided on the history of tea, styles of tea, types of tea, tea pairings with fruits and savouries, and tea tasting characteristics. Instructions are provided on making the perfect pot of tea for this charming custom that was once the hallmark of high society. Detailed guidelines are presented on how to set a proper tea table and how to set up a tea style buffet along with instructions on dining with savouries, scones, and petits fours. This newest volume illustrates various methods for conducting oneself gracefully in his or her professional life keeping in mind the importance of first impressions. The chapter on virtues contains important information on self-discipline, friendship, courage, and other aspects for living a good life. As a bonus, The Art of Timeless Étiquette, Graceful Dining Manners, & Afternoon Tea Revised Edition journeys through chapters on the history, usage, and care of all tableware which includes flatware, dinnerware, stemware, and crystal. Credit is given to Richard Osterberg’s book, Sterling Silver Flatware (Published in 1994 by Schiffer Publishing Ltd.) for much of this information. Mr. Osterberg’s passionate interest in antiques and silver began during his Vermont childhood. He was introduced to a goldsmith and silversmith from Scotland and over time developed an interest in English, Scottish, and American silver that resulted in several publications. Credit is also given to William Hanson, executive director and owner of The English Manner based in London. Mr. Hanson is widely regarded as the most trusted authority on étiquette and civility. His life’s work continues to be the training of royalty, government officials, diplomats, and VIPs who wish to integrate good manners into the global forum. Mr. Hanson’s expert advice is priceless. Whether one is a homemaker, business professional, or student, The Art of Timeless Étiquette, Graceful Dining Manners, & Afternoon Tea Revised Edition will empower every reader with confidence as he or she learns life-changing essential manners and practical skills while exploring the world of étiquette. It will serve as one’s treasury of gracious living and offer inspiration for curating welcoming interiors and entertaining for every occasion.

EMMA The Étiquette Cat: Meet Emma Book

Volume III, EMMA The Étiquette Cat: Meet Emma, is beautifully written and illustrated. This children’s book is about Emma Elizabeth, an adorable Ragdoll feline. She is about two years old and is the sweetest kitty cat. Mischievous and loving with an abundance of curiosity, Emma fancies herself as a well-behaved kitty and her daily quest is to please her mum. She loves to play and sometimes gets into a bit of trouble, but her mum is very forgiving and gently corrects her. Children will instantly fall in love with Emma as they try to emulate her good manners. They will also enjoy her appetite for treats and her delightful personality. Gaylen Whiteman, an extremely talented artist who lives on picturesque Whidbey Island, beautifully illustrates Emma’s bright blue eyes and her gorgeous furry coat. Gaylen, who signs by her first name, captures Emma’s curious personality as she is featured near mum’s tea table, antique tub, and other interesting areas of her home. The book also includes a fabulous healthy English Scone Recipe, a Mock Devonshire Cream Recipe, and a Blackberry Fruit Spread Recipe for parents to make with their children along with a short explanation of the word “etiquette,” a child’s place setting illustration, and a family-style place setting illustration.