With all the talk about the royal wedding of an American to England’s Prince Harry, the U.S. seems to be fascinated by all the commentary on royal etiquette. Like we in the new world should marvel at the day to day courtesies the new princess will be expected to exhibit as she assumes her royal duties.
I find that funny. We have some of our very best friends living in London. One American and one Englishman found love and that is more than a reason to celebrate. We miss them desperately. We love to see their faces. I was so excited when they posted photos of their royal wedding celebration. The lovely Union Jack flag was flying in the back.
We often forget to appreciate the kindness and courtesies of our closest friends and family. The royal wedding and my friend’s celebration of it reminded me of all those royal characteristics that make a friend and a princess shine.
Here are my top five royal repeats!
- Make eye contact and give a happy greeting – It is not an understatement to say, “the eyes are the window of the soul”. My lovely, London-living friend, Valerie has beautiful ones and when she speaks to me or asks me how I am, she looks at me and up from her phone or the last text. It is so valued and important to take a minute and look into a person’s eyes when you greet them, ask them how they are. The new Duchess is famous for her smile and gaze. We can all practice that more. Look up, into someone’s eyes and tell them how happy you are to see them.
- Express a compliment or acknowledgement – My friend Valerie, always tells me how I look good or bad. She always compliments my latest pair of shoes or my new lipstick. She has even been known to straighten my fascinator after a few glasses of champagne. False compliments are not good but sincere ones put people at ease. The royal couple seems to be always expressing thanks and appreciation for the support and love they have received as they approach their big day. My English friend, Neil, always says, “Thank you” even for the smallest courtesy. That is royal behavior, express your thankfulness and give a compliment and you will go far.
- Sit appropriately – Yes, body language matters. We all have been watching videos on how the new princess must sit. But is also important to practice good posture for our health and self-esteem. “Shoulders back, head up, chin parallel to the ground. Look them in the eye, go get ‘em tiger.” I am sure I have heard that a million times in my mind, mostly in the voice of my expat friend.
- A good breath mint – Yes. I said it. Carry them with you. Put them in your car, your bag, by the front door and in your desk. You never know when you are going to meet the love of your life and move to England like by best friend or the new Princess. Smell minty, embrace life’s new adventure and find love.