“As Hamptons dinners and poolside cocktail parties fill your calendar, you’ll most likely be introduced to many new faces,” shares etiquette expert, Myka Meier, who was taught by a a former member of the Queen’s palace, and now owns a NYC based etiquette company Beaumontetiquette.com. “So what topics should you never talk about, and which will make you the subject of everyone’s affection?  Below is my easy guide of appropriate conversation topics…and those you should avoid.”  Mika will be teaching the do’s & don’ts of proper etiquette in East Hampton for the summer, and sharing a summer series of tips with KDHamptons readers.

MYKA’S TOP TEN TABLE TALK TIPS:

1. DO compliment someone in initial conversation “That is the most stunning dress!” it opens conversation and creates likeability…but never ask where it’s from – you might as well ask how much it was (eek!).

2. DON’T talk about illness. When someone casually asks “How are you?” it is more a greeting, and not meant to inquire about your latest ailments.

3. DO talk about your plans for the weekend. “So which fireworks are you going to watch? I’ll be at the Southampton Fresh Air Home’s American Picnic by Grucci”.

4. DON’T talk about money – it’s just quite simply tacky.

5. DO talk about upcoming fundraisers and spread the word “Everyone is going to the St. Judes Hope in the Hamptons event on the 11th” – I hope you’ll be joining?  Everyone loves a charitable socialite.

6. DON’T make the first question you ask someone “so what do you do?” it is seen as opportunistic.

7. DO keep things positive.  Avoid any tragedy or solemn events, and instead focus on exciting moments that you may have in common “I’m so looking forward to the Summer Benefit at the Watermill Center.  What events do you have coming up?”

8. DON’T talk about controversial topics (i.e. religious or political) unless you know you’re on the same page as another person.

9. DO find out who you know in common.  “So how do you know the birthday boy?”  Try to ask open ended questions where possible to start conversation.

10. DON’T gossip. The Hamptons are 2 degrees of separation…and it’s just not nice.

About Myka Meier is an etiquette expert trained in London under a former member of The Royal Household of Her Majesty the Queen and founder of Beaumont Etiquette, based in NYC. For the month of July, Myka will be taking private and group clients (adults and children) in the Hamptons, teaching dining and society etiquette. In her free time, Myka likes to play polo, hit the beaches of the Hamptons and host her own fabulous dinner parties. 

For more info on Beaumont Etiquette: T: 212.390.1557; E: myka@beaumontetiquette.com; Twitter / Instagram: @MykaMeier; www.beaumontetiquette.com