Local Third Through Fifth Graders Learn Basic Etiquette at Inaugural Event

August 2015

Chairman Tanya Merla Leiber and The Junior League of Houston’s Community Special Projects Committee carefully selected a top-notch Houston-based etiquette coach Michelle Hollander to work with partner, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Houston, for a special inaugural luncheon focusing on dining and social graces. The event began as the attendees entered the room with each boy escorting a girl to her seat at the table and pulling out her chair. Hollander led the group in a variety of topics including social graces, dining and table manners, and writing thank-you notes. Attendees dined on a three-course meal prepared by the Tea Room starting with broccoli and cheese soup, followed by parmesan-crusted chicken topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, with a side of green beans and macaroni and cheese. The meal was punctuated by a dessert of fresh summer strawberries in a candy lace basket topped with whipped cream. Guests left the event with two hours of practical etiquette lessons as well as their own set of thank you notes prepared by League volunteers. The favors also included a colorful long-stemmed tissue paper flower, used as a centerpiece for decoration during the event, and a laminated placemat to help them with proper place settings. The League hopes to continue this event for many years and may one-day make plans to expand into different age groups and community agencies.