Planning a Student Etiquette Dinner?

We understand the transformative power of a well-executed etiquette dinner for university students. These events are more than just meals; they are invaluable opportunities for young adults to hone the social graces and professional decorum that are essential in today’s global society. Whether you are preparing your students for internships, job interviews, or international diplomacy, our expertly curated Student Etiquette Dinner guide provides the essential tools and insights needed to plan an event that is both elegant and educational.

INVOLVE ALUMNI, FACULTY & EMPLOYERS

Include university alumni, partners, and potential employers to foster networking opportunities. This will allow students to work on their conversation skills throughout the dinner. Consider extending invitations to distinguished faculty members and university dignitaries.

COLLABORATIONS AND PARTNERSHIPS

Partner with university departments, career services, hospitality programs and external organizations to broaden the scope and reach of the event. Leverage these partnerships for resources, guest speakers, and sponsorship opportunities.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

Events are often held in student centers, ballrooms, and banquet halls. But may also take place in unique spaces such as grand foyers, campus hotels, art galleries, etc.

Hosting the dinner off campus may also be an option. For example, at a local steakhouse or Italian restaurant with private dining space.

MENU PLANNING

We recommend a three-course meal that reflects sophistication and culinary diversity. Plated service, cloth linens and floral centerpieces are nice finishing touches. If plated service is not possible, buffet dinners are also an option.

It is customary to offer bread and butter, soup or salad, a main course that can be elegantly cut (avoiding long noodle pasta) and simple dessert. A sample menu would include: tomato bisque, grilled chicken with vegetables and mashed potatoes, and cheesecake. If the budget allows, consider offering tea or coffee with dessert, wine during the meal, etc.

Remember to consider dietary preferences and restrictions and to obtain those details from participants in advance when possible.

TECHNICAL NEEDS

It is recommended to use a space that offers an A/V HDMI screen setup for a customized PPT presentation. For groups of 40+ a lavalier or handheld microphone along with slide advancer are encouraged.

EVENT SCHEDULE AND DURATION

Allocate 2 hours for the dinner, ensuring a balanced distribution of time for dining, networking, and learning.

While dinners are most common, an etiquette brunch or luncheon may be a great option.

DRESS CODE

Advise attendees to dress in business or business casual attire, underscoring the professional nature of the event. Provide clear guidelines to help students understand and meet these expectations.

PRE-EVENT COMMUNICATION

Send detailed instructions to attendees, including dress code, event schedule, and expectations. Remember to request information regarding dietary restrictions. Also, consider including biographies on guest speaker or information on guestlist such as alumni or employers participating.

PHOTOS & DOCUMENTATION

Capture the event through photography or videography for promotional and educational purposes. Invite the campus paper or consider placing someone in charge of capturing images for social media.

BUDGET & FUNDING

Prepare a comprehensive budget, considering costs for catering, venue, etiquette expert speaker fee and travel (as applicable). Explore funding options through university resources, sponsorships, and partnerships.

POST-EVENT ENGAGEMENT

Encourage attendees to provide feedback through a survey. Offer follow-up resources or workshops for interested students to further develop their business etiquette skills.

SECURING YOUR ETIQUETTE SPEAKER

Etiquette experts such as ours travel the country and abroad providing etiquette training for university and corporate events.

Most important in securing a speaker is locking in a date. While some universities plan their event a year in advance and host a dinner annually; if you have a shorter window, do not hesitate to reach out and confirm availability today!

Secure Your Dinner Date