The use of cell phones at the dinner table is irritating and rude
Dear Joy, I have a pet peeve that continues to irritate me whenever I attend a wedding – the use of cell phones at the dinner table. I couldn’t believe the number of times I witnessed wedding party members glance at their cell phones while they sat at the head table.
And, text messaging seemed to be almost addictive to a few of the guests who were seated at my table. Right in the middle of a conversation, they continued to glance at their phones like they were expecting a call from the President.
It is rude behavior that appears to have become commonplace and acceptable.
Joy, please remind your readers that the person they are seated next to should not be ignored or replaced by an electronic device. Joan
Dear Joan,
I agree that many people appear to be connected to their cell phones, and are in the frequent habit of checking for messages.
Since cell phones became commonplace in our society, they often bring a level of security and comfort to those who use them. Parents who rely on a babysitter, or who have teenage driver out on the street, frequently rely on a cell phone to keep connected.
The younger generation frequently relies on cell phones and text messaging to remain connected to friends at all times of the day or night.
Despite this modern convenience, your complaint is valid. The cell phone should never be used as an excuse to avoid conversation at the dinner table or in a social situation.
For a wedding, cell phones should be placed on a “vibrate” or “silent” mode during the ceremony and at the dinner table.
Everyday Etiquette Tips:
– Never talk while chewing food.
– Never start to eat until everyone has been served.
– Never take your dirty plate back to the buffet table-get a clean plate for refills.
– Never pick your teeth at the dinner table-find the nearest restroom to use your toothpick or dental floss.
– Never wave your silverware in the air as you speak.
– Never place a used utensil back on the table-it should rest on a plate or saucer.
– Never turn your glass upside down if you do not wish to be served-just politely refuse when offered.
– Never tap your glass to get attention.
– Never toast yourself-just sit quietly and say “thank you.”
– Never light a cigarette between courses, even if you are in a smoking section-and never use your plate as an ashtray.
– Never push your plate away-or scrape or stack dirtydishes.
– Never use salt or pepper (or other seasonings) before you taste your food-it is an insult to the chef.
K. Joy Schaeffer is a bridal consultant. You can e-mail her your bridal questions at bridejoy@yahoo.com.