How To Be A Gracious Host

If you were one of the 54 people chosen to greet Queen Elizabeth II when she visits Richmond on May 3, be advised that she isn’t to be treated like a long lost buddy from college — Her Majesty expects a certain level of decorum. So, polish up on your etiquette with these tips from Katherine Barrett Baker, director of The Sabot School of Etiquette:

1: Do not touch the Queen; only shake her hand if she offers her hand first.
2: Don’t talk with your hands — this includes the “thumbs up” gesture, which evidently is considered obscene in many European countries.
3: Don’t speak to the Queen unless she speaks to you first.
4: Address the Queen as “Your Majesty.”
5: Abide by the provided dress code — no jeans or tennis shoes.
6: Don’t stare at the Queen.
7: Keep your hands out of your pockets.

And whatever you do, don’t shout, “How’s that 400-year-old humble pie taste, Queenie?”