Ashley Brooke Designs: Saying No in Conversation

Saying no.  I think everyone can relate to the challenges of turning down an offer, invitation or opportunity.  But it's never as easy as it seems is it?  Sometimes saying no take real fortitude and I know for me, it's something I continue to have to work on.

Part of etiquette and manners is honesty, so if you really want to say no, no is the answer you should give.  But there are some ways to use the word no, in a positive way.

Try accompanying it with a positive comment, like, "No, but thanks for asking me" or "No, but I appreciate you thinking of me."  Don't hem and haw, saying things like, "Well I really shouldn't," when you mean no, because this leaves the door open to further discussion.  If there is an opportunity that you aren't wanting to do now, but may be open to later, make that known.  But don't throw out a "But do call me next year," if you aren't really up for it.

{sourced Emily Post's Etiquette}
Content and Illustrations ©2010 Ashley Brooke Designs. All Rights Reserved.

Ashley Brooke Designs: What a Good Conversationalist Knows

A good conversationalist knows many things.  Including...

Know when to stop talking: People who talk too much can also be the ones who speak without thinking.  And we all know that this can lead to embarrassing moments.

Keep up with world events: Reading a newspaper or magazine will help you come up with subject matter to discuss with others and you'll be able to relate to other people's discussions.

Avoid Repetitions: Stories told multiple times can be boring.  If you aren't sure about whether or not you've told the story before, ask "Did I tell you about Lucy's latest escapade?"

Don't Whisper: Whispering or talking low to one person, can denote something being kept in secret.

{sourced from Emily Post}
Content and Illustrations ©2010 Ashley Brooke Designs. All Rights Reserved.

Ashley Brooke Designs: The Etiquette of Conversation

Good Morning!  It's the day after Oscar and I am still catching up on all the gorgeous gowns, since I was driving last night during all the festivities.  Ever thought about all the small talk conversation your favorites stars must have to make at award shows??

This week I thought we could look at good old fashioned conversation.  Are you ever at a loss as to what to say?  Or shocked by some of the inappropriate things people say to you?  I've been on both ends of the spectrum multiple times.  Let's start this Monday with the basics, shall we?

The two most important aspects of conversation are probably thinking and listening.  Being thoughtful about your audience will influence what you say to them, and if you should say anything at all really.  Should you council a friend on bridesmaids gifts when she isn't in your bridal party?  Probably not.  Listening is also crucial.  Lots of times we are thinking so carefully about what we want to say in response that we are not even listening to the other person.

Interruptions are rude.  The only time it's remotely OK is when you have something that honestly can't wait.  But otherwise, avoid interrupting someone just to throw in your two cents.

Be sure and leave people with a comfortable amount of personal space.  The standard is to be no closer than eighteen inches apart.  Be conscious of height as well so that no one has to look up or down at you.




Content and Illustrations ©2010 Ashley Brooke Designs. All Rights Reserved.