What is cocktail attire? What’s the difference between a salad fork and a dinner fork? How do you introduce yourself, and how do you exit a conversation? Navigating a business lunch or a banquet dinner can be a daunting task for the uninitiated, which is why every year, we give our participants the chance to test the waters in a safe and fun environment – JIT’s Annual Refine & Dine Etiquette Dinner! 

For the 30+ participants who attended the event at Doubletree San Diego Bayside, JIT Community Connection Coordinator, Monica Reyes was there to hype them up and congratulate them for stepping out of their comfort zones. 

Long time JIT volunteers Joan McClintock and Maurice Norris once again facilitated the Etiquette Dinner. 

“Many of us come from backgrounds where spaces like this weren’t always something we imagined ourselves being part of. It can make you question if you belong; but let me tell you this: if you’re in this room, you belong here. You’re here because you’re investing in yourself, building confidence, and learning how to show up in new spaces,” says Monica Reyes, Community Connection Coordinator. 

Jose Belmont with his girlfriend

Participants enjoyed hands on practice, enjoying a three-course meal of spring salad, chicken piccata and chocolate mousse while being challenged to introduce themselves and shake hands with people they didn’t know. They were given priceless tips on how to start conversations, how to politely decline to answer questions, and even where to put their purses as they dined! 

For participants who will be attending JIT’s upcoming Empower Parties, where they will have the opportunity to meet and make meaningful connections with influential people within the JIT community, the Etiquette Dinner gives them the extra bit of confidence to relax, enjoy themselves, and have a great time! 

Here are some parting words of wisdom from JIT facilitator and volunteer Maurice Norris. Maurice is a stylist for Macy’s.