Champagne glassware is preferred in weddings and formal occasions. Etiquette books probably don’t explain how the clinking of the glasses or coldness of the glass is crucial in adding joy to the event. This multi-sensory experience is taught from social interactions and cultural cues beyond books and Youtube videos. People need to be together to learn the nuances of such experience. Similarly, the Chinese has specific toasting order and rituals that match their social environments. What are you missing when you make a toast to your Chinese guests?
About Author
yvonne.liu.wolf
Yvonne Wolf was born in Taiwan and educated in the U.S. and Europe. She has extensive experience living and working internationally (Denmark and Japan). She is fluent in English, Mandarin, and Danish, and has studied Japanese, Spanish, and Greek. Between work and personal travel, she has visited more than 20 countries and well-traveled within the U.S. and Canada. She has worked with organizations and business executives focusing on communication strategies working with Chinese and East Asian partners. Among her many skills is mediating across cultural misunderstandings.