Renwed fascination with the royals is inspiring West Aussie women to get etiquette training. Class enrolments are up since Meghan Markle took royal lessons before getting hitched to Harry. Perth etiquette expert Elizabeth Soos runs “how to be a duchess” classes, which include lessons on proper manners and protocols. Her pupils include Germaine Koh, of Fremantle, who said she felt outside her comfort zone at high-end cocktail events a few years ago for her fiancé’s work in Monaco, Italy and London.“ I felt really uncomfortable because the level of etiquette at the posh places we went to, particularly in Monaco, was beyond anything I had come across before,” Mrs Koh said. Not only has she learnt the high tea rules of engagement and other palatial requirements, but the Singaporean-born woman, who is stepping into real estate, was schooled on how to make the best first impression. Armed with the training and a new wedding band, Mrs Koh was ready to mingle with the Hermes bag clique when she again accompanied her new husband for overseas functions late last year. “I was so much more confident at these events compared to my previous trips, I just wish I had done the duchess course sooner,” she said. “To know the proper etiquette is good for everyone, it shows respect to your partner, respect to business. It’s not only a matter of my husband making a good impression but also for partners.” Ms Soos said the royal wedding had helped return etiquette to the spotlight. She said Meghan had gone through a phenomenal transformation in a short period, with royal watchers noting her improvements in how she curtsied and interacted with other family members and the public. “People might think etiquette sounds old fashioned and they think of Queen Victoria or young Queen Elizabeth but etiquette is respect for other people and it goes back to treating people how you would want to be treated,” Ms Soos said. #auersmont #etiquetteschool #finishingschool #australia #melbourne #etiquetteschoolasia #etiquettetips Read article now>>
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There is nothing like the aroma of a BBQ. For Australians, the summertime BBQ is a time-honoured, iconic institution. All of us crave the taste of a BBQ. I know I do! Australian BBQs are usually relaxed, jovial gatherings, which everyone loves to attend. How did Australians come to love the BBQ? Let us head back in time, back to when Australia was first being settled by the British. The only way of cooking was to use wood, fire and the meat that was brought over on the first fleet of ships and thereafter. Those who became the stockmen, drovers and swagmen (shepherds in Australia), who would drive thousands of stock from feeding place to feeding place, in remote places over long periods of time, would cook and eat meat from the land. Perhaps it was kangaroo, wallaby or their own stock, like lamb or beef. To complement the BBQ’d meat, damper (an Australian soda bread) would be made. Traditionally, damper was made from wheat flour, salt, baking soda or Irish soda, it was cooked in the ashes of the campfire or ‘damped’ fire. It could also be used as a dessert, when golden syrup was added. Though the term was somewhat known as a large, outdoor feast, the word, ‘barbecue,’ (or the shortened, ‘BBQ’) was rarely used in Australia. According to an Australian food timeline, backyard barbecues in Australia didn’t take hold as the social events that they have now become, until the early 1900s. The first use of ‘barbecue,’ for an Australian event is reportedly a notice for the Waverley Bowls Club’s Leg o’ Mutton Barbecue in 1903. The term caught on for more social and civic events in the following years. It wasn’t until the 1950s though, that the idea of private BBQs in outdoor kitchens really caught on. Since then, Australians have never looked back. Here are a few tips when you receive that very Australian BBQ invitation: 1. Reply back as soon as you acquire your invitation. A good Australian host will need to know how much meat, sausages and salad to purchase fresh on the day of the BBQ. 2. Find out what your host would like you to bring. Your host may say either one of three things when asked: A host or hostess may ask that you *“bring nothing.” That is self-explanatory. Or a host or hostess may say, “BYOB.” BYOB in traditional Australian culture, means to “bring your own beer.” Leaving any not consumed for the host at the end of the gathering, will suffice for bringing no present at all. The third could be “bring a plate.” Don’t assume your host will be actually needing plates! It means to bring a dish of consumables to share, such as a salad, a vegetarian cold bake or a dessert.
3. Being invited to a BBQ is an informal affair. No need to dress up. Casual, chic and comfortable is advised. You will be possibly standing on the lawn, it’s best to leave your heels at home and wear espadrilles, ballet flats and even thongs. 4. Arrive at the suggested time. When you arrive you may find a friendly game of backyard cricket or badminton. You may be encouraged to join in or watch the kids play. 5. Assist the host or hostess if you see that help is needed. Ask though, before jumping in. Many BBQs are informal occasions and you’ll possibly receive a casual invitation on the day itself, or the day before. Don't be scared to pitch in, or to offer a hand. It can make for great conversation and it helps you to get to know others swiftly. 6. What you will find cooking on the BBQ will most often be steak, sausages, marinated chicken, mince patties, lamb chops, onions, seafood grilled and few vegetables such as corn, capsicum or pumpkin. Don’t touch the BBQ while hot. For many reasons, at an Australian BBQ there will always be a designated cook. They will assume responsibility for cooking the meat to perfection. Feel free to gather around the BBQ and chat with your host, with a drink in hand. The cook or host will be more than happy to accommodate the way you like your meat to be cooked. Taking over, you might find that a further invite may not be forthcoming. Complimenting the chef, however, works like a charm and you’ll probably be invited back. 7. Every good Australian household will have mosquito repellent, in the form of coils that can be burnt away from the dining setting or you can spray repellent during the night. Your host will usually store this in the laundry cupboard, however, a polite guest won’t go through someone else’s cupboards without permission to do so. If you are eating inside, all windows and doors have fly screens to keep the buzzing enemies on the right side of the door. 8. Leave your phone in your back pocket or bag. Australians love to chat and tell stories and vice versa. If you are constantly on your phone, it will indicate that you are not interested in being there and you will be remembered by your hosts and other guests for all the wrong reasons. 9. Lastly, after thanking your host and or hostess, again compliment your cook, and leave at the suggested time. * After being told to “bring nothing,” if you feel inclined to bring a gift for your host or hostess, steer away from chocolates, which are too easily meltable in the Australian summer heat. Flowers are also risky, as the heat can cause the petals to wither and burn. What makes a great BBQ host or hostess gift? An unusual bottle opener, personalized stubby holders (bottle or can koozies), or a bottle of wine to be opened and enjoyed at a later date. Please see the same article featured: Etiquipedia.blogspot.com #auersmont #bbqetiquette #etiquetteschool #australianetiquette #australia #melbourne Summer is here, and so are the holidays! When we think of December holidays, images of lounging beside cool waters, swimming, and boating come to mind. For some, chartering a yacht is the perfect way to reflect and unwind. To make your yachting experience even more enjoyable, here are the captain’s top tips: Safety First Listening to the safety briefing is crucial. It really does save lives. Give your captain and crew your full attention at the beginning of your trip to ensure everyone’s safety. No Shoe Rule When you board and cross the passerelle or gangway, you’ll find a basket for your shoes. This is because yachts often have beautiful teak wood decks that are highly polished. Black-soled shoes can leave marks and scuff the wood, and any heels can leave indents. Shoes also bring in dirt, dust, gum, and even tar from roads and sidewalks. This is a great opportunity to show off your pedicure, so don’t be shy! Service Staff On American yachts, service staff are trained to interact with clients, providing a friendly and engaging experience. On European yachts, the service staff will cater to your needs while remaining discreet and quiet. Both styles ensure you receive excellent service tailored to different preferences. Planning Ahead The company you book through will provide a preference sheet for you to fill out. This allows you to list your likes, dislikes, and planned activities while on board. Planning ahead ensures that your experience is customized to your preferences and maximizes your enjoyment. Conclusion By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and memorable yachting experience. Happy holidays! #auersmont #etiquette #yatch #rolexsydneytohobart #summer #boats #water In today's hyper-connected world, we're bombarded by a constant barrage of messages – emails, texts, social media updates – from everyone about everything. This constant influx can leave us feeling overwhelmed and anxious. Ironically, when the notifications stop, we might find ourselves checking our phones incessantly, waiting for the next hit. But there is a way to take control. Here are some phone etiquette tips you can implement for yourself and your family to create healthier tech habits: Prioritise Face-to-Face Connections Silent Meals, Meaningful Moments: Make mealtimes with loved ones phone-free zones. Put your devices away and focus on the conversations and connections happening right in front of you. This promotes quality time and strengthens relationships with friends and family. Embrace Digital Detox Unplug and Recharge: Schedule regular phone-free periods throughout the day, or even dedicate an entire evening or weekend to a digital detox. This allows you to be fully present in the moment and reconnect with the world around you, free from the constant digital buzz. Silence the Noise Cull the Clutter: Regularly review the apps on your phone. Delete unused ones and disable notifications for apps that aren't mission-critical. This helps minimize distractions and prevents your phone from constantly vying for your attention. Silence the Sirens: For essential apps, consider customizing notification settings. You can often choose to receive notifications only for important updates or messages, letting you stay informed without being bombarded by trivia. Be Present When It Matters Power Down for Power Meetings: Make phone-free zones a standard during important meetings, interviews, or presentations. This shows respect for the other person and ensures you're giving your full attention to the task at hand. Conclusion By implementing these simple tips, you can transform your relationship with your phone from one of dependence to one of control. You'll find yourself feeling less stressed, more present in the moment, and able to cultivate stronger connections with the people around you. Remember, technology is a tool, and like any tool, it's most effective when we use it intentionally and thoughtfully. |
AuthorElizabeth Soos Archives
July 2024
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