Julie Lamberg-Burnet (pictured)
Expert in etiquette has shared his tips on how to make Christmas special and what to avoid to dampen the festive spirit.
Julie Lamberg Burnet is the founder of Sydney School of Protocol. She insists that the 25th of December 2021 should be one for all time after Covid disrupted almost two years of our travel plans, work and celebrations.
Daily Mail Australia reported that she believes it’s important to include both traditional and modern elements when decorating, gift-giving, or festive foods, in times of uncertainty.
DECORATIONS
You can say, “This is a sophisticated house” by decorating your home with Christmas decorations.
A classy appearance can be achieved by using simple and subtle details, as well as natural materials. For example, a Christmas tree as the centerpiece in your family’s dining room.
You should coordinate decorative elements, such as with a touch of gold or traditional bright colours, that include native plants and gum tree branches.
If your street has been chosen for the purpose of displaying Christmas spirit, avoid laser shows
You should coordinate decorative elements, such as a pop of gold or traditional bright colours, with gum branches, native and natural plants, and berries.
‘Creating an Australian festive theme with large vases of cloud-grey wattle with gum blossom, red bottle brush and heads of Kangaroo paw is a classy way of decorating the house at Christmas,’ Ms Lamberg-Burnet said.
“Real pine trees are a great way to add the Christmas scent, or you can choose a high quality imitation that can be kept and used again.
If your street loves laser shows, avoid putting on excessive tinsel or baubles.
Ms Lamberg-Burnet also believes it’s bad luck to leave decorations up past the ‘twelfth night of Christmas’ or January 6.
GIFTS GIVING
When giving gifts, focus on appreciation and gratitude to help create a more friendly and caring atmosphere, Ms Lamberg-Burnet suggested.
It is important to give a thoughtful gift that speaks directly to the recipient’s passions and interests.
“Homemade foods such as cakes, chocolates and dried fruits are better than bouquets of flowers because they last longer and are simpler to arrange, she stated.
A thoughtful gift voucher or gift certificate for an unforgettable experience is a great way to show your appreciation.
She stated that homemade food products such as chocolates and baked goods wrapped in colourful ribbon, dried fruits, or potted plants over a bouquet are more durable, easier to place, and last longer.
‘As a guest always bring along gifts for the host and their family… they do not need to be expensive but thoughtful,’ Ms Lamberg-Burnet said.
Family members sometimes make mistakes and buy a lot of cheap gifts, such as souvenirs, self-help books and clothing.
She said that t-shirts with crude messages, in-jokes gifts, and gift certificates without much relevance are not advised.
Christmas party guests should send thank-you notes no later than 48 hours after their event, and bring small gifts to the house.
FOOD & DRINKS
It’s important to prepare your Christmas menu carefully if you are given the task of leading a festive feast.
Local food vendors are a good option, especially since the Covid pandemic devastated small businesses. You can also buy produce at local grocery stores or have a finished-at-home meal made by a chef.
‘Serve food items on either dishes, platters or baskets, offer an array of tastes on individual small plates, offer plenty of glasses for celebratory cocktails, champagne, beer, wine and soft drinks,’ Ms Lamberg-Burnet said.
It isn’t Christmas-friendly to serve take-out food from food chain restaurants like a rotisserie turkey/chicken with pre-cooked vegetables and soggy coleslaw.
Do not give your guests drinks in bottles and cans, but decant the glasses instead
Indoor entertaining is easy with linen napkins, chinaware and glassware.
She suggested that guests should surprise their family members and include a gift along with the table settings. Be mindful of cultural and dietary requirements, and have extra food and gift items in case of an unexpected guest.
It’s not a good idea to offer a variety of dips and chips because people will double-dip. Also, bringing food to the table or creating buffets are considered unclassy.
You should not use plastic glasses or cutlery. Also, don’t wear sandals and a T-shirt if the family has made an effort to follow the dress code.
COVID-QUERIES
Ms Lamberg Burnet offers a way to connect via Zoom, and create fun virtual dining experiences for those who are unable to attend the Christmas festivities.
“Remember your neighbours and close friends that may be alone at home. She suggested that you make a call and leave something behind. Both of these will be greatly appreciated by them, which could help to improve their day.
If guests or family members cancel after the event, such as if they were asked to withdraw from the gathering, please be understanding, despite any disappointment. Your best regards and greetings.