I received a question from a reader about perfumes and colognes today…

“So much cologne/perfume. Why? Miss Cynthia I was wondering if you addressed this type of topic in your classes! People need to be schooled.”

– Vicki

Yes, I do discuss the use of perfumes in my classes. We are meant to wear a “kiss” of scent; we are not meant to bathe in it. A lady or gentleman is to leave a light fragrance behind as they walk by… enough to pique the interest of others, and leave a gentle memory.

When beginning your day, select the ONE scent you will wear for the day. Spray the perfume or cologne into the air directly in front of you and walk through. This is “the kiss.” You should have enough to last for a few hours. It is okay to repeat in the afternoon. Do not spray directly onto your skin or clothes.

Use clear perfumes and colognes during the day, and darker colored ones after five o’clock.

Avoid mixing scents or wearing too many at one time. Be aware of the scent of your shampoo, conditioner, hair spray, deodorant, powder or lotion. Each of these products can have a strong scent of their own; adding perfume or cologne may be too much.

A lady or gentleman considers the health and comfort of others. When at work, be aware of those who have allergies or asthma. Your fragrance could set off a severe reaction or even attack.

May the scent you leave behind be gentle…

The Rules of Manners Apply… Always
Texting… Facebook… Twitter… Instagram… it almost makes one long for the days of perfumed scented letters and long telephone calls… almost. We can now share information with the world in the click of a single “Send” button.

The great information age has given birth to a new language, and new set of manners… some of it not so good. Too often we hear about incidents of damaging, inappropriate comments, pictures and videos being posted. It would seem the more technologically advanced we become the more socially-challenged we become.

Quite recently, I had an interesting conversation with someone on Facebook about “naughty words”… I had to define what they were and the effect they have on others. Emily Post once said, “Whenever two people come together and their behavior affects one another, you have etiquette.” This still holds true whether an interaction is face-to-face, on the phone, via email or on Facebook. We still treat the interaction as if we were in the room with that person. If we would not use inappropriate words, or phrases then, why would we on Facebook?

Before making your next text, or post ask yourself:

1. What am I really trying to share and is it appropriate?

2. Can I make my point in a powerful, yet respectful way?

3. Will I offend others?

4. Can my words or actions create problems for the person on whose page I am posting?

We share information for many reasons. Decide to make the interaction pleasurable by using proper manners:

1. Share positive comments, thoughts or news.
2. Never gossip.
3. Be friendly.
4. Treat others the way they want to be treated.

Wishing you many happy posts…