Hosting with Grace: My Experience as a Fine Dining Etiquette Host and Judge

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Being chosen as one of the hosts and judges for our school's Fine Dining Etiquette Activity was both an honor and an exciting challenge. The event was all about teaching students the art of refined dining—how to carry themselves with grace, use utensils properly, and engage in polite conversation. But beyond that, it was about confidence, respect, and making a good impression in professional and social settings. As a host, my role was to guide the audience through the flow of the event, making sure everything ran smoothly while keeping the atmosphere engaging. At the same time, as a judge, I had the unique opportunity to observe how well the participants applied their knowledge. From how they held their forks to how they interacted with others at the table, every little detail mattered. What made this experience even more special was seeing the students genuinely enjoy learning about fine dining. Some were a bit nervous at first, unsure of which fork to use or how to properly place their napkins, but as the evening went on, they grew more confident. It reminded me that etiquette isn’t about being overly formal or stiff—it’s about feeling comfortable and making others feel comfortable, too. Looking back, I feel grateful to have been part of this event. It wasn’t just about fancy table settings or knowing which spoon is for soup—it was about preparing students for real-world situations where etiquette and first impressions matter. I’m proud to have played a role in that, and I’d gladly do it again in the future!