A former royal butler shares insider tips to get YOUR summer party etiquette correct

A summer party doesn’t need to be hard work, even if you choose to include some formal touches.

According to butler Grant Harrold, who spent many years with the Royal Household,  the basic rules are rather simple.

Did you know there is a specific way to lay your serviettes, for example? Or whether or not you need to hold up your pinky when holding a teacup? 

These tips and tricks will ensure all guests know exactly where they are now that the summer dining season has arrived:

If you’re planning to celebrate this summer, you might want to brush up on your napkin-folding techniques (stock image) 

With years of experience serving the royal family, follow these tips and your party is sure to be a success

1. How to set your napkins

If you’re going to be serving food at your summer party, then napkins are a must.

The Royal Butler said there’s a specific way to lay napkins that is true to royal etiquette.

The first thing to keep in mind is that napkins should be folded in half. But, there’s a catch. The crease should face towards the gentleman, and away from the lady.

‘This is because ladies traditionally apply lipstick. By folding the napkins in a certain way, they can lift up one corner, dab their lips, and then place the napkin back down to conceal their lipstick stain.’

The napkin crease should face away from the lady so they can lift up one corner, dab their lips and put it down in a way that hides their lipstick stain (stock image) 

2. How shall we snack?

‘On a royal sofa, bowl foods and canapes are permitted’ Grant says. This is great news for bank holiday celebrations, as your guests can enjoy ‘picky bits’ fit for royalty in true British style.

However, while bowl foods and canapes are a great choice to snack on, the Royal Butler says to make sure you don’t make a mess and watch out for any crumbs!

Your guests can enjoy ‘picky bits’ fit for royalty in true British style according to the Royal Butler (stock image)

3. Pinky finger or no pinky finger? That is the question

The tradition of holding out your pinky finger while drinking tea or coffee is a common practice that many people associate with proper etiquette.

However, the Royal Butler sheds light on the true origin of this tradition.

‘Holding a pinky is a myth’ he says, ‘It goes back to the days when cups did not have handles. I tell people who do this that they are not testing the wind direction, they are enjoying a cup of tea or coffee.’

So, no need to hold out your pinky finger while you sip tea over the summer holidays!

There’s no need to hold out your pinky finger while you sip tea over the bank holiday (stock)

4. How should guests sit on the sofa?

Sitting on the sofa like a royal is no straightforward task, the Royal Butler says.

‘Before sitting down, use your calves to gently touch the front of the sofa. This ensures that you’re in the right position to sit down with grace, and also helps to prevent any accidental missteps.

‘When sitting down on the sofa, be sure to keep your back straight and your posture upright. Once you’re seated, you can raise yourself slightly and push yourself back onto the sofa to achieve a comfortable and relaxed position.

‘Try not to cross your legs whilst sitting on the sofa, unless it’s a less formal event.

Sitting on the sofa like a royal is no straightforward task, the Royal Butler says (stock image)

‘If possible, limit the number of people sitting on the sofa to two. As the Royal Butler says, ‘two is company, three is a crowd.’

He added: ‘When it comes to handbags and accessories, make sure they’re not causing any unnecessary clutter. Place handbags on the floor, and if you would like to keep a small bag with you, consider placing it behind your back or on your lap.’

5. What time should guests arrive?

According to the Royal Butler, your guests should arrive at the exact time given. However, in some cases, a delay of up to ten minutes may be acceptable.

‘If your guests are going to be any later, they should inform you in advance’ says Grant.

According to the Royal Butler, your guests should arrive at the exact time given (stock image)

Grant Harrold was talking in partnership with Delcor, the British furniture maker