Etiquette Matters

An overhead view of eople gathered round a table toasting a meal.

Thanksgiving traditions, then and now

There’s nothing like the start of school, the falling leaves and a wild turkey sighting in the neighbourhood to remind… Continue reading “Thanksgiving traditions, then and now”

Image of man fustrated by incivility

Let’s try to contribute to an increase in civility

From rocketing food and gas prices and growing inflation to higher interest rates and soaring crime rates, everything around us… Continue reading “Let’s try to contribute to an increase in civility”

When invitations to dinner parties start rolling in during the holidays, be sure to RSVP. It’s an easy way to show your host courtesy and respect. Photo: Cottonbro from Pexels

Don’t forget to RSVP this holiday season

You know how people say you should work in the service industry at some point in your life so that… Continue reading “Don’t forget to RSVP this holiday season”

Teachers have an important job and bear a lot of responsibility as they’re guiding the next generation that will take care of us as we age. Treat them well. Photo: Jacob Lund iStock Getty Images

Teachers deserve our gratitude and respect

If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance a teacher helped you learn how. Do you have a teacher that… Continue reading “Teachers deserve our gratitude and respect”

Tipping shouldn’t be confusing, intimidating or uncomfortable, but the rise of ‘tipflation’ has raised a lot of questions. Photo: Pexels

Figuring out the new norms in a world of “tipflation”

Etiquette Matters columnist explores the increasingly hazy realm of tipping

Remember when cab drivers, pizza delivery drivers, servers and salon staff were the only people we had to tip? It… Continue reading “Figuring out the new norms in a world of “tipflation””

Are you really a good listener? Active listening shows you care about what the other person is saying and it’s one of 12 key ways to be respectful to others. Photo: Andrea Piacquadio Pexels

Twelve easy steps toward being respectful in the new year

Many people demand it. Some say it must be earned. Others preach that it begins within each of us. Can… Continue reading “Twelve easy steps toward being respectful in the new year”

"For me, the holidays have always been about reconnecting and spending time with friends and family around the table, sharing slow-cooked food." Photo: Cottonbro from Pexels

Connect more, and buy less, this holiday season

’Tis the season of giving and, although the increasing cost of living has our bank accounts groaning in protest, and… Continue reading “Connect more, and buy less, this holiday season”