Clashing Clichés: A Manners Maven in Las Vegas
February 16, 2010
I recently traveled to Las Vegas for my daughter’s wedding – a real-life, Rock-n-Roll Elvis wedding.
My friends had to chuckle at the idea of an Etiquette Maven at an Elvis wedding, as if this was somehow a volatile combination. But the truth is, I was completely charmed by the whole event! “Elvis” was so engaging; he had the whole group singing and dancing. It was fun, light-hearted, full of music and spirit, and most certainly memorable.
When I returned home and expressed my delight, those chuckling friends were so surprised. “We never thought you’d enjoy something so tacky as a fat singer in a sequined, polyester jumpsuit – and at a wedding, no less!”
It was my turn to chuckle. Their idea of an etiquette maven was so cliché – prim and proper and restrained – and in their minds, an Elvis wedding was 180° the opposite!
So, for the record, I’ll say it again:
Etiquette is all about having a good time – and making sure others are too. It doesn’t matter if you’re wearing a velvet cape and crown or shiny gold polyester. If you make your guests feel welcome, comfortable and carefree, that’s social grace.
And in that light, it was a roaring success. In fact, at the end of the evening, I just couldn’t help myself… I took my exit with a curled lip and a jaunty little smile, saying, “Thank you, thank you very much…” because it truly was a lovely event.
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