By Dr. Yakini
Congratulations to President Barack Obama! It is indeed a great day in our nation as President Obama assumes the role of commander in chief, shattering a racial barrier in the United States!
As always, our new First Lady was powerful and exquisite on President Obama's arm. It's evident that Lady Obama isn't afraid to take risks and express her own personal style, while still respecting the conservative tradition of her position as first lady.
I absolutely loved Mrs. Obama's inaugural fashion choices on Inauguration Tuesday. Her bold and unusual choices combined classic and conservatism with a modern edge, which I believe is a reflection of many women in this country today. Her silhouette is a classic one, but the color and fabrics are always modern.
Enjoy these images of the First Lady's Inauguration Fashions, courtesy of The Huffington Post.
Saturday, January 17th: The birthday girl boards the Whistle Stop train tour in a wool, faux wrap A-line coat. 
Revealing a purple ensemble on board the train.
Sunday, January 18th: Michelle arrives at "We Are One: Opening Inaugural Celebration at the Lincoln Memorial" in Washington wearing Narciso Rodriguez, who also designed her election night dress.
Arriving with Barack at the "We Are One" concert in Narciso Rodriguez
Monday, January 19th: Michelle volunteers at Operation Gratitude
Monday, January 19th: Michelle in J. Crew at the Kids' Inaugural concert
Tuesday, January 20th: Michelle Obama arrives at the inauguration ceremony wearing a matching lacy brocade and coat suit dress by Cuban-American designer Isabel Toledo and green gloves by J. Crew.
I love that she chose to wear lace, which is such a huge trend this fall, but interpreted in her own way.
Revealing the cardigan that was beneath the coat at the luncheon  Michelle Obama chose a white chiffon one-shoulder gown by Jason Wu as her Inaugural Ball Gown. Wu, 26, who was born in Taiwan and works in Manhattan, has been compared to Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera. But that Park Avenue sensibility is often tempered with a touch of youthful whimsy.  "First of all, how good-looking is my wife?" asked President Barack Obama at the first of 10 official inaugural balls. Mrs. Obama also wore diamond drop earrings and a diamond cuff bracelet to match the sparkle of the beaded gown. CLICK HERE to return to the Homepage.
By Jennifer Wasilewski
Do you have a holiday office party coming up and you're not quite sure how to act? Office parties tend to be awkward because they combine the business atmosphere of work and the social aspect of a party. It's hard to know which lines you could cross and which ones you shouldn't. Finding the happy medium isn't always easy, but with these great tips you should have no problem getting through the night.
- Be There and Be on Time: Generally speaking, being fashionably late is a good thing for parties, however, for some reason this doesn't really include work parties. It's a good idea to come on time or only a few minutes late. This is especially important if a meal is to be served. You definitely should be there by the time the first course (often a salad) is served and you should leave no earlier than after dessert.
- Dress to Impress: Chances are you won't have to wear a suit and tie to your office gathering, but that doesn't mean you can wear anything you please. Leave the ripped jeans and the comfy sneakers at home. Opt for dress pants or dark denim paired with a nice button down top. Stick with casual dress shoes and you'll be ready to dance the night away.
- Watch Your Alcohol Consumption: It's a holiday office party, and chances are there will be
 alcohol available. It's okay to have a few drinks, even get a little tipsy; it is, after all, a party. However, it's never a good idea to end up too drunk to remember the night. Being the "drunken guy in the corner" doesn't show much respect for your boss. The last gift you want for the holidays is a pink slip that you don't' remember getting.
- Take Advantage of Opportunity: An office party is a great time to interact with co workers and senior staff members so take advantage of the opportunity at hand. This is an excellent place to show your strength as a person without having to discuss business. If you share common interests like golfing, fishing, or other hobbies, with your boss feel free to chat with them.
- Don't Get Greedy: Even if you feel you're really impressing your boss with your witty conversation, don't monopolize him or her the entire party. It's important to mingle and share your boss with everyone. If your boss wants to speak to you more, rest assured that she will find you. Mingle with your other coworkers--you never know who you will meet.
- Be Gracious: Be sure to thank your boss and whomever else was responsible for throwing the party. A lot of work goes into a Holiday party and it's important that you show how much you appreciate that. You don't need to go over board and make a big display of it; a simple, but heartfelt, "Thank you" should be just fine.
By Dr. Yakini
While much of the anticipation centers around President-Elect Obama and his new policies, Michelle Obama commands a powerful style that is all her own! She wore a stunning black and red Narciso Rodriguez Spring 2009 collection dress on Election Day. However, now that the presidential race is over, the race to be Michelle Obama’s Inauguration Day Gown designer is officially on!
A bevy of fashion legends have eagerly submitted their exclusive fashion sketches to First Lady-Elect Michelle Obama and First Daughters Sasha and Malia, in the hopes that she will choose one of them as her Inauguration Day Dress! WWD Fashion gives us an exciting sneak peak of some of the fabulous designs from which Lady Obama has to choose!
Diane Von Furstenberg
Tracy Reese
Oscar de la Renta
Christian Lacroix #1
Christian Lacroix #2
Betsey Johnson
Karl Lagerfield for Chanel
Carolina Herrera
Badgely Mischka
Michael Kors
Koi Suwannagate
Elie Tahari
CLICK HERE to check out all 42 designs!
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By Laura Jayne McDonald
According to MarthaStewartCrafts.com, "Beautiful gift wrapping sends a message of thoughtfulness that is as important as the gift itself." Have you ever attended a nice affair and found yourself sneaking your shoddily wrapped present behind the other exquisitely wrapped packages? Well, now you no longer have to go to the Bloomingdale's counter for beautiful, professional gift wrap. Jayne McDonald, a young mompreneur and co-CEO of Two Blondes & a Brunette Gift Co., has had many years of experience with elegant, affordable gift wrapping at home. Read on to learn her tips of the sophisticated gift trade!
Above image: Wrapping Boxes from MarthaStewartCrafts.com
DO use clear, clean cellophane when wrapping gift baskets or a grouping of smaller gifts.
DON’T use reindeer-adorned cellophane or any of its tasteless cousins. It’s the equivalent of your grade one teacher’s red cable-knit sweater with snowman appliqué.
DO use lavish, beautiful wired ribbon. It can turn a simple bar of elegant soap or even just a tin of hard candies into a memorable token gift or hostess gift.
DON’T use that tacky thin ribbon that you curl with scissors. You want to elevate, not cheapen your already cheap gift.
DO use gold and silver accents, in moderation, for holiday season gifts.
DON’T assume more gold and silver equals better. It equals tacky. If you were trying to compete with drug store gift baskets, you would have just bought one there.
DO use bold color. Think hot pink, lime green, turquoise. Paired with chocolate brown, it’s very of the moment.
DON’T think bold color means heather green and navy with maroon trim. That’s like realtor speak for ‘designer upgrades’ on 1970’s homes updated in the 80’s and on the market today.
DO pair black and white, i.e., crisp black paper with white ribbon. It is clean and classic.
DON’T use black and white newspaper to wrap your gifts. I tried that during a particularly thrifty Christmas season, and my mother wouldn’t even put my gifts under the tree.
DO use variations of the same shade. Say, pale green tissue, a lime green bag, and a darker green accent. Alternatively, pair beautiful products with packaging elements that echo one another (i.e. a tin of loose leaf tea with olive green label paired with a milled soap in lime green box.) This balanced pairing is seamless and adds a touch of controlled luxury.
DON’T compile an assortment of mismatched, cheap products with similar packaging in an attempt to duplicate this idea. Quality always wins. Better to have two select items, than twenty toss-away ones.
DO put some love into your creation. That’s truly what makes it special!
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By Julia Sophina
After Marilyn Monroe’s confession that Chanel No. 5 was "all she wore to bed," women around the globe began to realize the importance of choosing a signature scent. After all, what better way to add glamour, individuality, and that touchstone of frou frou we all need in our lives? Choosing the scent you like enough to be your signature fragrance can be challenging, but Julia Sophina offers the following advice for finding the perfect one for you!
Image (left) source: BenjaminFretwell.com
It's important to separate yourself from the pack. You need to stand out, and there are a number of ways to accomplish this goal. Many people show off their unique personality through dress, hairstyle, or shoe selection. For something a little more understated, but just as powerful, consider selecting a scent that will immediately identify you to the people you come in contact with everyday. At first, they won't quite know why they're having these powerful, memorable feelings. With time, however, they'll come to associate that certain wonderful fragrance with you. After all, scent is supposedly the sense most strongly linked to memory. Once that connection is made, it won't easily be forgotten.
How can you figure out which scent best matches your style and personality? A large part of the equation is a simple "smell test". Go into any local department store, and try on a number of different perfumes. Pick the one that you like the most, and give it a trial period. Wear it to work, out to the bar, and in other social situations where you'll be in close contact with others. It's wise not to mention that you're trying a new perfume. Let their opinions come to you. That way, you'll know that you're getting honest feedback instead of superfluous compliments.
This first perfume doesn't have to be the signature scent that you're wedded to for eternity. Now it's time to think about the other aspects of the scent. What does it represent? You would be surprised by the subconscious thoughts and ideas that perfumes can trigger in others. A strong perfume will immediately take another person aback, demanding their attention. This could have a mixed result; do you really want to create such a strong impression before you've even had the chance to introduce yourself? Perhaps you'd be better served by something a little less powerful, a scent that flies under the radar until the prey is within reach. Likewise, are you after a more fruity scent, or something that is a bit more masculine?
The scent alone shouldn't be the only consideration for deciding on your signature scent. Perhaps equally important, what is the price tag attached to the bottle? You don't want to get addicted to a perfume that you'll only be able to use sparingly. Consider that your signature perfume is just that: a statement that will make people think of you, and you exclusively. That's why picking something out of your price range is shortsighted. Instead, consider a slightly less expensive option that won't break the bank each month.
Choosing your signature perfume should be a fun process, and an expression of exactly what makes you an individual. Remember that you don't have to settle on the first scent that you come across. Take your time, and experiment with different options that best express your personality. As months turn into years, this scent will become a lasting part of your image to the world, and one that people will look to for evidence that you've graced the room with your presence. How you smell is just as important as how you look. In fact sometimes it can be more important. Smell has a way of affecting people in ways looks never could. Have you ever smelled a pillow or clothing that had the perfumes of your mate on it? Scents bring back memories and feelings in a powerful way. Moreover, a little whiff throughout the day of the perfume you love can do wonders for your spirits!
Find your signature scent at Unique Perfumes, featuring a wide range of perfumes, from Christian Dior perfume to Vera Wang perfume.
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By Leesa Barnes
 There's a time and place to network with people in order to generate leads, build rapport and form meaningful relationships. The change room at your gym, spa or country club isn't one of them. It's a lousy place to do any networking. Things dangle, imperfections are visible, and being naked means that you're vulnerable.
If the person is a yapper, you're stuck listening to him since you won't be able to scurry away to your car in your birthday suit. If the person is a looker, you may feel embarrassed asking her to keep her eyes focused on your own.
However, if you do find that you've bumped into someone you've been trying to get in touch with, and she's standing in front of you half-naked, here are some tips to remember to avoid embarrassment, while also seizing the moment:
- Don't stare. At a networking event, it's perfectly fine to look at what someone's wearing and even comment on how they look. In the change room, this is a no-no. Whether the person has a mole on their butt or a rash on their thigh, resist the temptation of eyeing that spot. Also, never ask how they got it. Instead, glance at the spot quickly, then return your focus to the person's eyes.
- Keep your eyes at eye level. While networking, it's common for people to make eye contact then let their eyes fall down to your chest area to read your nametag. Don't do this in the change room. Nothing is more embarrassing then dropping your eyes to scan the person in their birthday suit. Your best bet is to pretend the person is wearing a full body chastity suit and that you can't see anything below his or her neck.
- Don't have a long chat. At a networking event, it's okay to engage people for at least 5-minutes to find out who they are and how you can help them. In the change room, people are often not in the business frame of mind. For example, someone at the gym is there to workout and may need to get back to office quickly. Someone at the spa is there to relax and has left the office at the office. If you must chat, keep it very pleasant and very short. Then, promise to follow-up by email or phone later in the day.
- Resist the handshake. In a normal networking situation, shaking hands is proper business etiquette. However, while in the change room, resist the urge to stick out your hand. The person may have hair gel, body lotion or some other gooey substance all over their fingers. The last thing you want to do is stand there after a handshake with something wet drying all over your fingers as you chat. Instead, simply wave hello, keep your distance and just smile.
- Don't ask "Why are you here?" This is a normal question at a networking event. People are dying to know what you're looking for so they can help you. In the change room, asking that question is either stating the obvious or can be awkward. If you're at the gym, assume they're working out. If the person's at the doctor's office, most likely they have a medical condition that they'd prefer to discuss with their doctor. If you must ask questions, try asking about the family, a recent vacation or what they're reading these days and stay away from asking about the obvious.
Networking in the change room can happen, just remember how to do it effectively to avoid an awkward encounter. Keep your eyes level, resist the urge to touch and you'll soon learn that networking while undressed can be rewarding to the growth of your business. Leesa Barnes, The Schmooze Coach, helps consultants, virtual assistants, professional organizers, coaches and solopreneurs avoid cold calling by developing a fearless networking plan. Leesa is author of "Schmooze Your Way to Success: 9 Fearless Networking Tips for the Shy, Timid, Introverted & Just Plain Clueless." Go to http://www.schmoozeyourwaytosuccess.com/ecourse.html and sign up for her free 8-lesson ecourse called "From Clueless to Fearless: Secrets from the Schmooze Coach."
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By Leesa Barnes
Above image: Pepsi-Cola advertisement, 1959
You’ve been there. You enter a room and someone walks up to you, yelling out your name at the top of their lungs. You rack your brains, trying to remember who this lady is, but your mind draws a blank. Instead of yelling her name back, you shout out “Hey!” instead. Nice.
Remembering people’s names will help you to open doors and close deals. When you can recall someone’s name, not only do you make him or her feel special, but you also give the impression that you pay attention to the finer details. Knowing someone’s name can spell the difference between getting a warm referral or being brushed off.
Here are some clever techniques you can use so you never forget another name again.
- Repeat it over and over. Saying the person’s name a few times after meeting him or her can help you tuck their name into your memory for good. Because some of us learn best when we hear things, you should repeat the name over and over throughout your conversation. Just remember not to make every other word the person’s name; otherwise, you’ll come across as weird. Instead, begin every third or fourth sentence with the person's name.
- Remember a unique detail about the person. Ann could have striking blue eyes, Rod could have really broad shoulders or Yolanda could be wearing a pink dress. Because some of us are visual learners, associating a unique physical trait to the person you just met may help you in recalling their name at a later date.
- Give them a moniker. Use a nickname or an alliteration to jog your memory. For example, if you meet me, Leesa, at a networking event, you can tell yourself that I’m “Lovable Leesa,” simply because you felt I had a likeable personality. Diane could be “Delirious Diane,” because of her boisterous laugh or Milton could be known as “Miserable Milton” if he tended to frown all evening. Whatever moniker you choose, keep it to yourself so you don’t offend the person.
- Use technology. Using a personal data assistant (PDA) is an excellent way to remember someone’s name. Before you go to a meeting or head into a networking event, you can consult your PDA quickly to catch up on some of the names of people who you met at the event or company the last time you were there.
Just because you have difficulty remembering people’s names, doesn’t mean that you should stop networking altogether. Instead, follow the simple tips above and your memory will never fail you the next someone bellows your name from the highest terrace. Leesa Barnes, The Schmooze Coach, helps consultants, virtual assistants, professional organizers, coaches and solopreneurs avoid cold calling by developing a fearless networking plan. Leesa is author of "Schmooze Your Way to Success: 9 Fearless Networking Tips for the Shy, Timid, Introverted & Just Plain Clueless." Go to http://www.schmoozeyourwaytosuccess.com/ecourse.html and sign up for her free 8-lesson ecourse called "From Clueless to Fearless: Secrets from the Schmooze Coach."
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By Dr. Yakini
If stylish handbags are an important element of your everyday life then, undoubtedly, owning a fabulous luggage set is also high on your list of priorities. From the garment bag you take on a business trip to the overnight bag for a romantic weekend tête-à-tête, you'll find that many of your favorite purse designers also make functional luggage set combos. Read on to learn about the only type of "personal baggage" to bring into your relationships: the kind that matches!
 Just because luggage is practical doesn't mean that it can't also make a statement about your tastes and personal style, or even about your favorite designers and labels. If you travel often, or carry a lot of items with you, you'll be pleased to discover some of the fabuluxe luggage sets and travel totes on the market! Those who travel a lot may want to invest more into a top of the line luggage set. Those who travel less frequently may prefer an off brand suitcase or messenger bag rather than investing in a pricier set. In any case, you'll surely find selections on the market to meet both your budget and fashion needs.
Luggage sets can include a wide range of styles in various sizes, including but not limited to:
- Cosmetics bag
- Duffel bag
- Garment bag
- Hat box
- Messenger bag
- Rolling upright
- Satchel
- Suitcase
- Tote
- Overnight bag
Susan Breslow Sardone, Honeymoons/Romantic Travel Guide writer for About.com, notes that there is no better time than the present to begin acquiring a set of matching luggage. That way you have every piece you could need when it's time to travel. She names her Top 10 Matching Luggage Set recommendations for 2008.
1. Tumi T-Tech Matching Luggage Collection
Want to really go in style? There's nothing as design-savvy as a set of Tumi's T-Tech collections, which consist of a few dozen matching pieces ranging from a backpack to garment bags. I've seen top models and executives carrying Tumi. Distinctive features like the ergonomic handles and well-organized interiors in a contrasting color make this expensive luggage collection very desirable.
2. Diane Von Furstenberg Sexy Metal 3-Piece Luggage Set
Leave it to Diane to design luggage that's actually sexy. In gleaming bronze or subdued pewter, her three-piece matching set includes a carry-on and 21" and 25" expandable rolling suitcases. They're the perfect gift to say, "We're going places together, baby!"
High style and low price combine to earn this set of matching luggage a "Best of the Best" rating from eBags customers. Set consists of three rolling suitcases (28 inches, 25 inches, 20.5" plus a tote with a shoulder strap and soft-sided zippered case for cosmetics and toiletries.
This highly rated, versatile matching luggage set is sturdy and well-organized. Its construction strikes a balance between being lightweight enough to carry and durable to last. The selection of 27" upright, 23" upright, 19" upright, travel tote, and duffel means you'll always have a suitable piece to use, regardless of the length of your trip. Sensible and subtle (i.e. neither solid black nor flashy) color choices — plum, navy — help this nesting luggage set stand out at the carousel.
I've been using Claiborne luggage most recently, and it's held up well. The pieces seem to have a larger capacity than comparative ones; they expand generously. I don't use every piece when I travel every time, but there's always at least one perfect for a trip.
If you've got a lot to carry but not a lot of cash, this matching set provides a lot of pieces for a little bit of money. The pieces in this set are likely to work perfectly well on your first few trips as long as you don't overload them. Just don't expect it to last as long as a quality set of luggage.
A stand-out thanks to complementary stripes down the side, this matching luggage set has a sporty look. The versatile set includes four uprights with a matching tote and a rolling duffel bag, which means there's a suitable piece for any trip. A good choice for a trip of a week or less, this sturdy 3-piece matching luggage set offers more than meets the eye. It's guaranteed for ten years, significantly longer than comparative luggage. Well-organized interiors on the three expandable uprights help keep shoes and dirty clothing separate from items you haven't yet worn. Order the set in red, to stand out from all the black luggage on the carousel.
Whether you're heading for Florence, Italy... Florence, South Carolina... your Aunt Florence's house... or anywhere else, you'll definitely go in style if you pack your belongings inside this rich-looking set of matched luggage. Durable red and gold paisley fabric features extra support in corners. Set includes wheeled 28", 24", and 20" uprights a and train case. If you're already wearing your heart on your sleeve, consider showing it on your luggage as well. This four-piece set of matching luggage features a stylish polished nickel heart emblem The set includes three stylish rolling uprights and a boarding bag, all available in fuschia or olive. The price for this luggage set on eBags is significantly lower than if you were to buy it in a department store. Segments of this article courtesy of About.com.
By Leesa Barnes
Above image: Hart Schaffner & Marx advertisement, 1956
You’re at a networking event or in a business meeting and an attractive person walks into the room. You feel your pulse racing and something starts to stir in the middle part of your body. Not to worry, it’s not your lunch coming back up. You’re feeling the vibe–-the “I want to bag you” vibe.
It’s difficult to turn a business contact into a date. You met over very business-like circumstances and you could ruin a possible joint venture, partnership or alliance if you make the wrong move. A contract may not be signed if you ask for a date and the person just isn’t interested.
To avoid ruining a business relationship with an ill-timed request for something on the wild side, follow these six winning tips to turn a business contact into a date.
- Listen for clues about their marital status. When you’re at a networking event or when you sit in a meeting, the person chatting will always give clues as to whether they’re married, attached or single. Often, the person will say “My wife and I…,” or “My husband thinks…” You could avoid embarrassment by taking the time to listen for these not-so-subtle clues.
- Explain your intention for meeting up without sounding like a jock or jockette. At a networking event or in a business meeting, you should always have your professional hat on. Don’t say, “I think you’re hot. Let’s hook up for a drink.” Instead, tell the person that you find them interesting and you’d like to talk more at another time. By saying the word “interesting,” the person will see your request as harmless since it could just mean that you want to learn more about his or her business.
- Suggest meeting up for coffee. Ask for the business card and explain that you would like to follow-up. Then arrange a meeting over a low-pressure drink. Don't schedule your first encounter over lunch or dinner. Because of how long it takes to consume a hot plate of food, if the person turns out to be boring, you’re stuck wasting away precious time. On top of that, meeting over lunch or dinner can turn out to be expensive, especially if the person has a healthy appetite. Opt for coffee instead because by the time you finish your cup of brew, you may decide to end the meeting there or make an appointment for a future get-together.
- Keep the paws off. When you meet for the first time over coffee, you still have no idea if your feelings of attraction will be reciprocated. Avoid becoming touchy feely after the handshake. Instead, keep everything professional and treat the person as a business contact.
- Ease your way into personal questions. Remember, you’re still trying to find out if the person is even attracted to you. Keep your questions professional, opting to ask about business goals instead of sexual conquests. A rule of thumb is to ask 1 personal question for every 3 professional ones. If you’ve asked the person about their business goals for the current year, who their target audience is and whether they’re going to expand, you now have permission to ask a personal question. Your personal questions should revolve around these issues:
- Where he or she grew up
- What’s his or her favourite movie
- What type of music he or she listens to
- What is his or her parent’s nationality
- What books is he or she currently reading
- What is his or her favorite spot in the world
- Ask for the date. After following steps 1 to 5, if you’re feeling the vibe, ask for what you want-– a real date. If the person says, “Yes,” you’ve scored big time. It means that your gal-dar or guy-dar is bang on. If the person says, “No,” take the rejection in stride. Just tell the person that you misinterpreted their feelings and put your professional hat back on. Shake hands and tell the person it was nice getting acquainted. Then, go home and cry.
Just because you met the person at a networking event or in a business meeting, doesn’t mean you turn off your attraction radar and become a eunuch or a monk. Instead, follow the tips above and you’ll have more success of turning your business contact into a date, and less chance of getting rejected for crossing the line. Leesa Barnes, The Schmooze Coach, helps consultants, virtual assistants, professional organizers, coaches and solopreneurs avoid cold calling by developing a fearless networking plan. Leesa is author of "Schmooze Your Way to Success: 9 Fearless Networking Tips for the Shy, Timid, Introverted & Just Plain Clueless." Go to http://www.schmoozeyourwaytosuccess.com/ecourse.html and sign up for her free 8-lesson ecourse called "From Clueless to Fearless: Secrets from the Schmooze Coach."
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By Jonathon Hardcastle
Golf is no ordinary game. It calls for elegance and dignity. It pulls for a solid and bold character and personality that stand out in the sports world. Every sport has rules and such rules are necessary. However, not every game calls for special etiquette. Golf etiquette is a manner of behavior that golfers need to be mindful of when they enter the golf course, make their way through the game and, finally, step onto the golf course. These etiquettes, when properly followed, can help each golfer play their perfect game.
Above image: St. Honore les Bains, France; 1920 - Lmtd. Ed. Giclee Fine Art Print
The savvy golfer always arrives as early as possible on the course to have enough time to touch bases with the caddie. Caddies can be of great support and help to you. They not only carry your clubs, but they can provide you with guidelines and give you pointers. They can do readings for you, and give you tips that you may be unaware of while you play. It's always nice to have someone by your side to support your game. Arriving early also gives you time to familiarize yourself with the score boards, as courses may have different rules of scoring. You can also take the time to mingle with the other players. Engaging in light small talk early on may help you relax and feel comfortable with your opponents. Arriving late can mess up the golf course's entire schedule for the day.
It is also important that you take at least 15-30 minutes to warm up before the game. Not only will this stretch your muscles, but it will help give you confidence and also feel more at ease. Neglecting this very important step could cause you to feel stiff and uncomfortable, and your swings will reflect this!
Savannah Durbin, an avid golfer and aspiring computer engineer, adds these additional tips for proper golf etiquette:
• When teeing off, usually the person in your foursome with the lowest score on the previous hole tees off first.
• On fairways, and the rough, usually the person whose ball is farthest from the pin hits first.
• When around the putting green, again the person farthest from the pin goes first; but everyone will usually hit their ball onto the green before anyone starts putting.
• Again, once everyone is on the green, the person who is farthest from the hole putts first.
• It is considered rude to step on someone's line (the line between their ball and the hole).
• If someone has a far putt, it is courteous to ask if they would like the flag tended or taken out.
• Remember if the ball goes in the hole when the flag is still in, technically the golfer technically incurs a two stroke penalty, so be sure to remove the flag before holing out.
• Remember to put the flag back in the hole sometimes. You don't have to do it every time, but don't always expect someone else to pick it up.
• Mark your ball on the putting green, especially if it's in someone's line to the pin. If you don't have a marker, a coin will do just fine.
• Don't forget to repair your ball marks and divots!
• If you are playing exceptionally slow, and there are groups waiting behind you, consider letting them play through. It would probably be best to pick up the pace, and start picking up your ball when you have an excessive number of strokes.
• Don't talk when someone else is hitting. Try to stand behind others when they are teeing off. Also, if your shadow is in someone's putting line, you should move; that can be distracting.
• Don't hit until you are 100% sure the group in front of you is out of the way.
Keep in mind that a lot of these courtesies are how you want to golf when you are with someone you don't know very well. When you are out on the course with your friend's, I'm sure they aren't going to get too angry if you go out of turn, or don't mark your ball 100% of the time. Bottom line, just keep golf etiquette in mind, be courteous and considerate of other golfers, and you'll be fine! Play heartily and have fun!
Jonathon Hardcastle writes articles on many topics including Golf, Recreation, and Travel
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