In The Event That...

You Don't Know What to Do with the Tiny Fork

by Amy Strauss

In her pillbox hat and flat-heeled pumps, Jackie O sashayed her way into American hearts as a poised and proper social butterfly. In addition to her oversize sunglasses, the legendary first lady was known for her impeccable manners and flawless White House entertaining skills. As their First Ladies: Political Role and Public Image exhibit closes, the National Constitution Center is offering etiquette courses to make your New Year's Eve bash a classy affair.

Led by the center's well-mannered staff, the interactive workshops will review the proper preparation for place settings, what to do with multiple forks and when it's acceptable to begin chowing down. Guests can swing by the Delegates Restaurant and use their new table manners while sampling Eleanor Roosevelt's loaded American dogs, Laura Bush's spicy chicken fajitas and Lady Bird Johnson's lemon squares.

After the ladylike snacks, catch a final glimpse of the exhibit, which features personal belongings, White House furnishings and campaign materials. The 150-piece collection includes Mary Todd Lincoln's monogrammed silver tea and coffee set, Nancy Reagan's Just Say No board game, a Hillary pant suit and, of course, one of Jackie's iconic brocade evening dresses.