Mavens of Manners strike again

By Jessica Walendukanis
Courier Staff

As young adults, we often find ourselves in social situations such as work parties, conferences, trainings and cocktail parties. For many, these can be times of stress and uneasiness if they are not confident in the proper manner in which to conduct themselves.

The Wackerle Career and Leadership Development Center, Association for Student Activity Programming, and Wellness were sponsors of the first MOCKtail Party held on Wednesday, March 29.

Participating students enjoyed a fun and, at times, humorous two hours of socializing, eating, and also learning some valuable lessons.

Presented by The Mavens of Manners, a partnership specializing in etiquette and protocol, the purpose of the event was to teach basic social etiquette skills, helping student participants to feel more at ease in future social settings.

The presenters, Terry Bruner and Michelle Smith, also discussed how to juggle your plate, beverage and different kinds of food while standing and being social.

Students snacked on chicken quesadillas, hot wings, spanikopita (spinach and feta wrapped in phyllo), mini cream puffs and other tasty treats as they drank fruit punch, lemonade and iced tea that were served like real cocktails with garnishes.

For those who are a bit clumsy while eating, also discussed was what to do if food is spilled or how to avoid spills altogether.

With the acting help of MC junior Amanda Workman, students were also exposed to the experience of being in a situation with someone who has indulged in too much alcohol.

One of the most memorable moments in the evening was when Workman, playing the intoxicated guest, dropped an appetizer on the floor, shouted out, “Five second rule!” and picked it up pretending she would still eat it.

Workman was awarded a gift certificate prize by presenter Bruner at the end of the event for her role play and “being a good sport”.

Also awarded a gift certificate was freshman Paul Bridges. He was recognized for his efforts to mingle and appropriately use the tips offered throughout the evening.

The evening was an overall success based on the positive feedback from the student participants.

“Many students stopped me at the end to thank me and tell me how much fun they had,” said Michelle Shawgo, director of Wackerle Career Development Program.

Students were asked to complete feedback forms at the end of the event. Shawgo reported that the student feedback was very positive.

“I was very pleased with everything, and look forward to hosting the event again next spring with many more student participants,” explained Shawgo.

Bruner and Smith were also last fall’s presenters at the Wackerle Center’s annual Etiquette Dinner.

Mavens of Manners School of Etiquette and Protocol was founded by Bruner and Smith in April 2005. The business provides etiquette and protocol instruction equipping students with the skills necessary to achieve personal and professional success.

Bruner and Smith offer training to children, teens, adults, businesses and organizations. Mavens serves as a mini finishing school specializing in dining, social skills and common courtesy.