Monday, October 26, 2015

Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic...a new book giveaway by Jennifer L. Scott.

Jennifer Scott kindly sent me an advanced reading copy of her new book "Polish Your Poise."
I enjoyed reading her other two books "Lessons from Madame Chic "and "At Home with Madame Chic."
If you don't already know Jennifer, she writes the blog The Daily Connoisseur and has You Tube videos online. You can pop over and read her posts on her classic 10 item wardrobe...and she's recently been speaking about the tendency that some people have towards dressing too casually for events like weddings, the theatre and when dining out.


Jennifer is a very wise and talented young woman, married, with two young daughters.
She's busy taking care of her home and family, yet makes time to write for several hours each day...

I brewed a big pot of Lapsang Souchong tea and devoted a couple of relaxing afternoons to her book.
Her thoughts on poise reminded me of my upbringing...
I can recall the same advice being taught by my Mother, and similar thoughts echoed by the elegant and poised woman who led the Saturday afternoon Charm School that I attended!


I think our society has moved away from teaching these lessons...being polite and poised is never out of fashion.
The book would make a nice gift for a young woman just starting out in the workforce...
I can envision a mother giving a copy to her teenage daughter.

Manners, cultivating and developing personal style, being a good neighbour, dressing appropriately, how to handle social media, maintaining an air of mystery, and more topics are discussed in the book.


One thing that I took away from this book is that we have strayed away from the etiquette and manners that were an integral part of my 1950's and 1960's upbringing and that it's never too late to teach these values to the next generation.


Jennifer has graciously offered to send one of my readers a signed copy of her book.
If you are interested in this giveaway please leave a comment.
Please enter by October 30th at midnight PST.


Good luck and I hope that you have a very pleasant week!

63 comments:

cigalechanta said...

Yes, that book sounds like something I need to get back to the niceties of life ,something that seems to be fading.

Anonymous said...

I would love a copy of this book , I have a granddaughter that would benefit from this .All of us could enjoy reading this and sharing.I think you could write a book , I am always looking forward to the inspiration I get from reading your blog posts. Thank You Donna

Beansy1959 said...

Manners NEVER go out of style. I would love to see a world where EVERYONE had them.

Mrs LH said...

I would love a copy. Here in the UK there sometimes seems to be a distinct lack of good manners!

DaniBP said...

I would really enjoy this new book, I've read Jennifer's previous books and I really like her writing style. How nice that she's offered a signed copy to one of your readers, yes please enter me in the contest :)

Melanie said...

Excited to read this new book - our culture has gotten so rude! Hopefully we can start to make a comeback.

galant said...

I have Jennifer's two previous books and really love reading them. She says what so many of us think, or tut-tut about! I learned good manners by the example set by my parents in the 1950s, but so many people today do not know how to behave in public or even at home within the family. Of course, in the late 1940s and early 1950s when I was growing up, we didn't have leisure or sports clothing and the more formal the dress, it tends to follow the more formal the behaviour. But it would never cross my mind to go into a restaurant wearing what we in the UK call "tracky bottoms", i.e. work-out clothes. I even make sure that I'm clean and tidy to pay a visit to the supermarket, it didn't need Jennifer to teach me this (even this old dog can learn new tricks!) but it was good to hear her say this because at least some young people will now latch on to the idea that looking smart really boosts confidence and is respectful of others.
I would love to be included in the giveaway for this third book by Jennifer, but only if you're mailing to people on the other side of the pond.
Margaret P

Unknown said...

I have read her other books and would love a copy. Knowing how to treat yourself and others with courtesy and respect should not be lost.

Marguerite said...

I would love to read it and then pass it on to my darling daughter-in-law, who is a year into her career.

Alice said...

Very interested to read it as the attitude reminds me of my Mom's poise. Yesterday I was taking a train and I mentioned to my Father and Sisters the beauty of an old train station and how beauty and respect were visibly cultivated in people's lives over 100 years ago and what I was happy to hear was their immidiate getting on my point :) Thank you for your review and introducing Jennifer, the more people meet her the better. Thank you, Ladies.

Anonymous said...

Would love to read it!

Andrea

Unknown said...

I grew up in the 1950s with a fashionable Canadian mother who dressed up every day. I try to look good every day as well, but without the gloves and hats and girdles. :-) I've followed Jennifer's writing and keep trying to have a 10 item wardrobe. I am still trying. Would enjoy having the new book -- love the cover.

Pixie said...

I haven't read Jennifer's books but follow her blog. I would love this book to adorn my bookshelf and begin discussion within my social circle. Thank you.

Deb said...

I certainly enjoyed her first book! I would enjoy this book for sure! Please enter my name!

Deb said...

I certainly enjoyed her first book! I would enjoy this book for sure! Please enter my name!

M. Pearl said...

I often reflect on how grateful I am that my parents taught me to be polite, respectful and modest. It amazes me how little class some people have. This book sounds like an interesting read that both my mother and myself would enjoy.

Anonymous said...

I've enjoyed Jennifer's other books and would like the chance to read this as well. Thank you for the kind offer!

Kandace

Veronica Roth said...

This would be great for Chloe and probably reinforce some of the things I've been trying to instill in her. It's difficult for Chloe just out of university and onto their first big girl job. She's always questioning her choices and asking for my opinion.

Patricia said...

Hello Leslie, thank you for hosting this giveaway, please put my name in the hat. I have been reading Jennifer's blog for years and have her previous books, I'm sure to enjoy this one. I don't wonder that you could hear Jennifer's voice when reading the book - I love her You Tube videos.

Irishpixie said...

I would love to have a copy of her new book. I have read her other two and have successfully employed some of the things that I had learned from them. It's still a work in progress, but every step is worth it. 😊

Irishpixie said...

I would love to have a copy of her new book. I have read her other two and have successfully employed some of the things that I had learned from them. It's still a work in progress, but every step is worth it. 😊

Northmoon said...

This looks like a very interesting book, I'd love to read it. If I don't win, I wonder if it's available from the library?

Juhli said...

I too have read her other two books and would love to have a copy of this new one!

Anonymous said...

I have read Jennifer's other books and just love her! Her advice is so timely, as manners and wardrobes grow ever more casual. I would love to read her new book and pass it on to my daughter who will be getting married soon and starting her new life (hopefully with polished poise!)

karen said...

Thank-you I would love a copy. Kindness is also lacking in our world.

Amanda said...

Would love a copy. Read the first two books and really enjoyed them.

Susan A said...

I also attended Charm School in the 60's. The teacher told us to start each day standing at an open window and taking in a big breath of cold, fresh air. I'm not sure what it had to do with manners but it is good advice! I would love a copy of Jennifer's book. I have read her others and have been looking forward to this one.

Dana said...

I would very much love a copy of Jennifer's book. I am a single mom to two kind, intelligent, beautiful daughters (16 & 19). Both are starting to blossom and find their own special way in the world. I live on a very strict budget and would not be able to buy this book on my own. Please know that if I was the proud recipient of a copy- after I devoured it, it would be passed on to my lovely daughters. It would be not only well-read, but well-loved and cherished! Thank you for this opportunity!

Pam said...

I would love a copy of Jennifer's new book. I would give it to my granddaughter for Christmas as she beginning her life in the real world; it would be such a valuable asset to have in her library for now and always...manners is something I grew up with. My parents and grandparents were very strict with manners and I was raised on them...manners never go out of style; I can remember my mother saying that so often and wasn't she right?..I hope that manners come back into our society as right now they have been missing for a long time...thank you and I am anxious to read Jennifer's new book myself. Thank you for the generous opportunity Jennifer.

Unknown said...

Thank you! I would love to enter my name in a chance of winning this book. I know my two daughters would each take something away from it.

lizzie said...

Thank you for the opportunity to win a copy of this book. I always enjoy the books you recommend.

I went to those charm school classes at the top of the Bay as well but I went under much protest.

SusanJ said...

I have Jennifer's first book and enjoy her blog and videos. I love her gentle manner and know her latest book would have lots of valuable advice! As a teacher of 7th and 8th grade students, I observe my share of unladylike behavior, and would like to share Jennifer's message with my students.

Anonymous said...

I would love to win a copy of Jennifer's book! :) That would make my day!

I am eager to read her book. I loved her first two and this one resonates w/ me as well. Her recent videos on exercise clothing at nice establishments were SPOT ON. I also loved the "Active Wear" video that she linked in the follow-up video she made (it's a parody, and it is quite funny!)

I'm new to your blog, recently discovered it while purusing through the interwebs. I am really enjoying reading your posts and also past-posts. Looking forward to reading more from both you and Jennifer!

donnyb said...

Thank you both for such a great opportunity -- I'd definitely like to win the book and share with my daughter. Like yourself, this was what we taught by our mothers and I hope I've also given my daughter the same knowledge and confidence as good manners will always be in style in my opinion. Lyn

Susan said...

I would also love a copy of Jennifer's book. I read her first two books and enjoyed them. I've watched her videos about her 10 item wardrobe and I am intrigued.

Unknown said...

The book sounds like one that I would enjoy very much since I read her previous two books and liked them so much that I have re-read them! Thank you for this opportunity!

Anonymous said...

I would also love a copy of the book. Thank you for the review and lovely pictures. - DBQMary

Anonymous said...

A copy of Jennifer's new book would be fabulous.

Anonymous said...

I agree with much of what's been said here about the sad decline of manners although I found Jennifer's video somewhat ott. On a lighter note I'm always amused by the increase in blog comments when there's a giveaway and wonder whether there's an etiquette issue there?! I would like to clarify that I am not interested in owning a copy of Jennifer's book but thank you for the offer. Mary

marmielu said...

This is a treat! I have read Jennifer's other two books, and have her new one on my wish list.
I agree with you that Jennifer is a wise young woman, and enjoy her efforts to uplift civility.
Mary Lou

kim at northerncalstyle. said...

I adore Jennifer and her books. How nice she sent you an advance copy. Sounds like something we all could use a little more of. I'd love to be in the drawing if it's not too late. Hope you are having a lovely fall. xo Kim

Aurora said...

Hello Hostess, this is the first time I have commented, but I check your blog daily to see what is going on in your lovely life. Also growing up in the 50's and 60's I still remember how manners were taught to children in school. I still remember our teacher showing us how to curtsey if we ever met the Queen,I grew up in Southern California, but I was prepared :)

Sue in Spain said...

I've read Jennifer's other books and enjoy reading her blog, so it would be lovely to win a copy of her latest book. If I'm unlucky, then I'll still be buying it on Amazon! I should point out that I live in Spain, so I don't know if I am eligible for this great prize.

Jennifer said...

She's a lovely young lady. I enjoyed her other books so would love to read this one. Sadly manners are going out of popularity these days! I'd love to see a return to a more gracious manner of treating others.
Xx

Lori said...

I would love to win this new book by Jennifer! I've read her previous books and follow her blog regularly. The 10-item wardrobe fascinates me but to no avail could I whittle down to so few pieces. It has helped me to purge my closet and to spend more wisely and selectively.

Anonymous said...

Thank you for this generous opportunity to win Jennifer's new book. I really enjoy reading her blog, and her videos are so charming. I agree, being a woman of a certain age, that times have sadly changed. I applaud Jennifer's mission to bring civility back into the culture! And may i say how much I enjoy your blog dear Hostess? Thank you for providing such a lovely place to visit on the web!

Anonymous said...

Hi,
I would love to read the book also.(Not sure if the offer is open to your American readers.)Just hearing the word poise nowadays is so unusual isn't it?Another Andrea from the American south

Anonymous said...

I have read Jennifer's books and follow her blog. I know that this one will be equally special.
Please enter me in your giveaway. It was kind of Jennifer to provide the book.
I follow your blog and enjoy your insight and clothing selections.
marywyatt

Anonymous said...

I have really been looking forward to Jennifer's latest book, I have the first two, they were fabulous. Please enter me in the giveaway. Thanks!
Rita T.

Angela Saver said...

I would love to in this for my daughter! Thanks for the chance at an awesome giveaway!

andysavi.mom@gmail.com

Anonymous said...

Please enter my name in the contest for Jennifer's new book. annec_br@hotmail.com Thank you!

Charlene said...

Jennifer Scott has wisdom beyond her years. I enjoy reading her blog and loved her first books. Would love to have a signed copy of her new book.

Mary p. said...

I would like to be entered in this giveaway. Fascinating sounding book!

abeautywanderer said...

This book sounds incredible, thank you for the opportunity!

Deborah Montgomery said...

Thanks for the opportunity to win this book. I have read her Lessons from Madame Chic, and really enjoyed it.

Cindy said...

I loved her first book and would love to win a copy of this one! Thank you for the giveaway!

Miss Jane said...

In addition to my day job I'm also a Corporate Etiquette Consultant, and every time I tell people about my passion for etiquette they all say the same thing "what has happened to good manners?" My only explanation and that of my etiquette consultant colleagues is that people consider 'etiquette' something for 'other' people, "my kids are great, but their friends...", that's not important anymore, it's just for 'rich' people", etc, etc. Unfortunately, lots of people see the need but very few of us can make a living teaching etiquette these days.
Thanks for the great post and the giveaway!

Anonymous said...

It was lovely to see you yesterday. I enjoy your blog so much.
Becky

Lindsay said...

Sounds inspiring!

Judy said...

I would LOVE to win this book! I have been following (and loving) Jennifer for years!

Dianne said...

Please include my name for the book draw, if I'm not too late! I've enjoyed Jennifer's writings over the past years, and still have her blog posts printed out that were eventually incorporated into her first book - her first two books were excellent, and this new book looks to be equally inspiring.

Sue @ A Colourful Canvas said...

Squeaking in with my comment for the book giveaway.On every occasion that I go to the theatre I feel, not overdressed, but dressed up more than almost every other person there. I'd love to read Jennifer's writings.

Kathy said...

I grew up in a household where I was taught "manners" but not etiquette. I stayed with my aunt-by-marriage at age 14 in 1973 and she gave me her book of etiquette from the early 60's. (A gentle hint). From that book, I learned lessons I used in my first job and beyond. Simple things like how to make introductions, how to act in the theatre, table manners at a formal table setting, etc -- things my parents didn't know so they didn't teach me. I've always been grateful and wish I had held on to that book, an outdated as it might seem in 2015!