What is a groom's cake?

Origin is Victorian-era England. Most popular in the southern US. Traditionally chosen by the groom, served alongside the wedding cake to the groomsmen.

May I bring a guest to a wedding?

Only if given the option. A guest option will be indicated on your RSVP card or electronic invitation.

Should I bring a gift to the wedding?

Traditionally gifts are sent directly to the home of the bride or groom, not brought to the wedding.

As a guest, what should I wear to a wedding?

Look to the invitation for a clue — black tie, beach casual, etc. If silent, contact the couple. Traditional western wedding guests do not wear white.

Are the bride and groom obligated to send thank you notes?

Yes. Everyone who attended the wedding or gave a gift should receive a thank you note.

May I bring my children to a wedding?

Unless indicated on the invitation, you may not. Consider the location and time before asking.

Do the bride and groom have to give the wedding party a gift?

Yes. All members of the wedding party should receive an appreciation gift from the couple.

Are the days of the three-martini lunch really over?

Yes. Limit alcohol consumption and avoid reimbursing for alcoholic beverages. Steer away from drinking midday at business events.

Tips for cell phone use at a work lunch?

Don't answer or text unless the call is urgent. Keep conversations private. Be conscious of ring tone. Put phone on vibrate.

What foods should I avoid at a business lunch or dinner?

Avoid messy food: lobster in shell, spaghetti, mussels, ribs, chicken wings. Avoid food that sticks in teeth like spinach.

Who picks up the check at a business lunch?

Vendor/sales person first, then boss or most senior person, then you if dining with someone helping you (resume review, networking).

Top tips for planning a successful business dinner?

Choose restaurant for quiet noise level. Allow casual banter first. Have an objective and agenda. Steer away from alcohol.

What if I have dietary or religious restrictions?

Pre-plan. Call the restaurant ahead and ask about menu or ingredients. Don't wait until you're at the table.

Suggestions for small talk at a dinner meeting?

Read a mainstream newspaper for a week before. Avoid hot-button topics like religion and politics. Research fellow diners.

What should I wear for a business dinner right after work?

Wear what you normally wear to work. Consider bringing a clean business shirt and freshening up before leaving.

How many drinks at an office party?

If you want a drink, only have one. Better still don't drink. Getting drunk at an office party can damage your professional reputation.

Can I take a doggy bag at a business dinner?

Never take a doggy bag after a business lunch or dinner — it is gauche.

Events

NIGHT AT THE OPERA 2027

opera of interest

Opera info

Saturday, March 20, 2027

Dinner 5:30 p.m.

Show 8:00 p.m.

Aida

THE OPERA: Aida, composed by Giuseppe Verdi is set in Ancient Egypt. It is the story of an enslaved Ethiopian princess named Aida who falls in love with Radamès, the Egyptian military commander.

OPERA 2027

An evening of beauty and splendor awaits.

A night at the opera with Shances.

HOW IT WORKS

STEP 1. Find your opera(s) of interest listed below and buy a ticket from the Met. Purchase your opera tickets at www.metopera.org. Tickets are on sale now. Ticket prices vary from $35 to $415. You may sit in a section of your choosing.

STEP 2. Register and pay on Eventbrite for the Shances opera experience(s) usuing this link

After registration the Shances team will contact you about your virtual class, dinner order, hotel accommodations (if applicable), pre-event meet and greet, seating suggestions, what to wear and other details.

We have people from all over the country attend our virtual classes and then fly to New York for live performances. Having a virtual class allows for greater participation and access.

STEP 3. Attend the Shances virtual class where the adventure begins.

The class will cover opera basics, the history of the composer, and the story that inspired the opera. Classes are two weeks before each performance. Attendees will receive a zoom link after the event registration closing date.

STEP 4. Attend the opera, dinner and roof top drinks in New York (optional).

Step 5. Attend Sunday brunch at the iconic Tavern On The Green (optional).

FAQs link

Events

NIGHT AT THE OPERA 2027

OPERA 2027

HOW IT WORKS

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