The Hour

It might seem a tad old fashioned, but appropriate dining behaviour is still important, particularly if you want to make a good first impression. Lady Claire MacDonald joined The Hour to help explain the do’s and don’ts of dinner party etiquette.

The first problem many people face when attending a dinner party is the question of what to bring. Lady Claire suggests against bringing flowers as this puts the host in the awkward position of trying to find a vase.

It is also important to turn your mobile phone off. There is nothing worse than interrupting everyone’s meal with an inappropriate ringtone.

When food is served, do not just tuck in. The host will either offer you food or, in some cases, insist that you start without them.

When dining, try to do so politely. That means no loud slurping, speaking with your mouth full or banging cutlery. You must also never lick your plate clean, no matter how delicious that sauce is.

Keep conversation polite and appropriate. Rude jokes will put people off their dinner, while arguments over politics and religion will seriously dampen the conversation.

Importantly, be aware of how much alcohol you are drinking. Getting carried away will make other guests feel uncomfortable.

Yet it is not entirely up to the guest to follow these rules. The host should always be aware when drawing up a seating plan that some guests may not get on or may have little to talk about. This should be kept in mind.

WHAT TO SERVE?

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