#16 Modern Manners with Etiquette Expert Lisa Gaché

In this episode, Jennifer and Britney sit down with Lisa Gaché, the nationally recognized etiquette coach, lifestyle expert, and founder of Beverly Hills Manners. With clients ranging from Oscar-winning celebrities to global luxury brands, Lisa brings humor, clarity, and modern practicality to the timeless art of social intelligence. She dives deep into everything we should have learned in school — from how to be an exceptional guest and host, to dining etiquette (American vs. European styles), setting the table, decoding the "secret language" of silverware, managing cell phones at the table, navigating sensitive topics during the holidays, and raising socially aware children. She also breaks down dating etiquette, chivalry, establishing personal standards, and the three small daily behaviors that dramatically impact how others perceive you. This episode is packed with actionable tools, funny moments, relatable stories… and yes, "the burp bomb" makes an appearance. If you've ever wondered where to place your napkin, how to avoid a faux pas, or how to elevate your social IQ — THIS is your masterclass. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – 00:01:01 Intro to Lisa Gaché — her background, expertise, high-profile clients, and the modern need for etiquette. 01:01 – 02:25 Host gifts: When they're required, what's appropriate, and Lisa's favorite thoughtful ideas. 02:25 – 03:44 The "ultimate" host gift + the boss move of sending flowers before the dinner. 03:44 – 06:47 Unwrapping etiquette, why cards matter, and Lisa's book Beverly Hills Manners: Golden Rules. 06:47 – 08:48 How Britney & Jennifer first met Lisa — the Paris dining disaster and the birthday etiquette lesson. 08:48 – 10:10 Manners as a language; how etiquette boosts confidence and belonging. 10:10 – 12:30 American vs. European dining styles — the real differences and which one you should master. 12:30 – 14:45 How eating styles impact health, pacing the table, and the true purpose of dining. 14:45 – 17:00 Host vs. guest responsibilities when eating: Who eats first, and what signals the meal begins? 17:00 – 19:25 The napkin masterclass — folding, placement, coughing, sneezing, and yes… burp etiquette. 19:25 – 21:20 Dressing with respect, showing respect, and how presentation influences perception. 21:20 – 23:32 The BMW trick for table settings: Bread, Meal, Water. 23:32 – 27:18 Cutting food properly, when NOT to use a knife, and insulting the chef (the omelet rule!). 27:18 – 30:15 Cutting steak, slicing in the kitchen, and why adults should never pre-cut their meals. 30:15 – 32:37 The secret code for servers: Resting position vs. finished position of your utensils. 32:37 – 34:40 Serving left, clearing right — the hospitality rule everyone should know. 34:40 – 36:49 Napkins when leaving the table, the seat-vs-back debate, and teaching kids proper etiquette. 36:49 – 40:43 Who sits where at a restaurant? Booths, visibility, protection, and spousal negotiations. 40:43 – 45:00 Holiday hosting: How to avoid the frazzled host syndrome + ambiance essentials. 45:00 – 47:05 Why real china matters — the lost art of entertaining and creating family rituals. 47:05 – 50:10 Generational tableware stories + creating meaningful traditions for kids. 50:10 – 54:01 Managing children in the home during holidays — guidelines, boundaries, and designated spaces. 54:01 – 58:09 Guests' etiquette: attitude, taboo topics (politics, dieting, illness), and dietary restriction etiquette. 58:09 – 01:01:02 Cell phones at the table: The HARD no. (John, take notes.) 01:01:02 – 01:06:00 Dating etiquette: Communication, chivalry, pacing intimacy, being interesting & interested. 01:06:00 – 01:10:01 Real-life examples of chivalry that melt hearts — and why effort matters. 01:10:01 – 01:12:00 Setting standards in relationships + teaching men and partners how to treat you. 01:12:00 – 01:16:21 Three small behaviors that make a big impression: Smile Positive attitude Warmth & social grace in everyday interactions 01:16:21 – end The power of small talk, human connection, and why manners are needed more than ever. Lisa Gaché Contact Information Website: https://beverlyhillsmanners.com Instagram: @beverlyhillsmanners Email: [email protected] Book: Beverly Hills Manners: Golden Rules from the World's Most Glamorous Zip Code — available on Amazon Media / Speaking Inquiries: Via website contact form