Articles

Nostalgic for good manners

by Dana Gornitzki "It may be said that the books already published on the subject of 'manners' and 'etiquette' are sufficiently numerous for the wants of the community; but to this remark we would reply, that although the broad principles of manners remain the same, yet, the minutiae are continually altering and varying, and modes of speech and action which were considered the height of politeness a few years ago would be pronounced, at any rate very old-fashioned if used and exhibited in the present day." - A passage from Etiquette of Good Society by Lady Gertrude Elizabeth Campell written in 1893.
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You are welcome

by Jay Remer There are a number of basic phrases which are part of any good arsenal of etiquette words. I have discussed the virtues of please in a previous posting. Here I would like to share my thoughts on the phrase 'you're welcome'. This phrase usually follows 'thank you'. But more times than not, we forget to complete this communication.
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Proper posture: shoulders back, chest out...

The way we walk and stand say a lot about us - proper posture is most important. Here's a little video with a few helpful tips.
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Tea, glorious tea! (moving picture)

Tea in the morning. Tea in the afternoon. Tea in the evening. We adore tea anytime of the day. This is MIEN Magazine's humble little moving picture homage to the glorious and almighty cuppa. How do you take yours?
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Queueing: an obituary

By Paul Blezard Britain is a small island, one in which the population has exploded by some 50% in as many years. Politeness is not only the code word for the repression of rage, violence and selfish impulses of all hues, it is also one
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Just say NO: sometimes it's the kindest word to hear

By Jean Bernard Talon While socially it may seem more genteel to say 'yes', saying 'no' may be more appropriate in certain situations.
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Table manners by Emily Post (moving picture)

by Dana Gornitzki What does a correctly set place look like? How much silver should we lay out? (oh, just the thought makes the heart flutter) What is the proper way to eat soup? And is it correct to cut your salad with a knife? Of course, do not dare to lick your knife (EVER) and make sure to eat as quietly as possible - these are basic and proper manners.
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The importance of a good handshake

Your handshake says a lot about you. It is one of the first - if not most important - impressions you're going to leave with someone.
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Are you a sorry-a-holic?

By Poorna Shetty Sorry seems to be the hardest word...or so Elton John sang. However, society - at least in Britain - seems to suggest otherwise: we are a nation of sorry-a-holics.
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A dinner party dedication to picky eaters

By Elizabeth Renzetti “Oh, I forgot to mention – I’m allergic to dairy.” How many of us have heard those terrifying words after inviting someone over for dinner? Well, I’ve got news for you, Ms. Butterfat-Gives-Me-Buboes: You can tell you’re actually allergic to something if you need to carry an EpiPen with you wherever you go. If, upon ingesting a substance, your throat swells up and you die, then you have an allergy. I grant that sudden, violent death is a bummer at most dinner parties (though I’ve been to some where it would have been a welcome early conclusion to the evening.)
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Diary Dates

What? A country house party packed with fun and frolic to spoil your inner child. Think musical chairs, apple bobbing and special magic acts.

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Mien Theme

The Parlour is now closed. Thanks for making it such a huge success! Thank you to all of our lovely visitors, generous sponsors, supporters and collaborators. In case you missed the inaugural Parlour, take a peek at a few images from our photo album:

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