About

So you’ve decided that you want to live like a WASP?  Congratulations!  Making that decision is the first step and most important step in what promises to be a long and intricate, yet ultimately rewarding, process of personal transformation.  Rest assured that you’ll be following in perhaps the proudest of all American traditions, one that stretches back to the days of our founding fathers, and continues right up through Mitt Romney.

OK, with that crucial first step out of the way what now?  Perhaps we should get things kicked off with a little Q&A.  So, without further ado, I’m proud to present…

The Official How to WASP FAQ:

Q: What is a WASP?

A: The traditional term “WASP” is an acronym, which stands for: White Anglo-Saxon Protestant.  In other words, non-Catholic white people with English ancestry, AKA the generic makeup of the original ruling class of America from the 18th century through the mid 20th century.  However, over the years the term has evolved beyond its original meaning and today “WASP” can describe just about anyone, so long as they’re white (preferably with blonde hair and blue eyes), upper class, and from old-money.  What’s that?  You’re not from old money, a member of the upper class, or blue-eyed?  Well unfortunately you’re out of luck (me too)… But don’t sweat it because that’s not what this blog is about.  This blog is about the WASP lifestyle and the good news is that you needn’t be a WASP in the technical sense to enjoy the WASP lifestyle!

Q: What is the WASP Lifestyle?

A:  There’s no strict definition of what the WASP lifestyle entails, but for the purposes of this blog, we’ll take it to generally include the culture, style, leisure activities, and etiquette associated with the following types of people:

• The Old-Money, Upper Class Northeastern Establishment
• The British
• James Bond

Are there other groups of people out there, doing their best to carry the WASP torch?  Sure, tons of them!  But here’s the thing, they’re simply living the WASP lifestyle that was initially defined by the groups listed above, just like you’re about to do.

Q: This sounds expensive, do I need a trust fund to live the WASP lifestyle?

A: I’m not going to lie, it would definitely help.  Then again, what aspect of life wouldn’t that apply to?  The fact of the matter is that you can live the WASP lifestyle on just about budget.  In fact with the internet it’s easier than ever!  And let’s not forget that a significant portion of the WASP lifestyle is based on what you know and how you act.  Learning proper dining etiquette, how to tie a windsor know, or the rules of squash will cost you nothing but time.

Q: How is this blog organized?

A: Each entry will focus on a unique aspect of the WASP lifestyle from one of four major themes.  Those themes are:

• Culture
• Food and Drink
• Sports and Leisure
• Style

Within each entry, I’ll try to provide some background information on the subject, the basics of what you need to know, and the next steps if you’re interested in learning more.   For example, an entry on Bordeaux wines might include a brief history of the region and how it came to be important to the WASP lifestyle.  Next you’d find information on how to evaluate, select, and taste a good bottle of Bordeaux wine.  And lastly I’d provide a couple of links to further resources on the subject, or online wine stores where you can put your new-found knowledge to work.

Q: What can I expect to gain from How to WASP?

A: Hopefully you’ll come away with a some useful knowledge, a couple laughs, and a desire to try new things.

Q: Sounds good, how do I get started?

A:  Like I said earlier, you already have!  All that’s left is to head over the blog and start living the WASP lifestyle today.  If you have any questions or comments, please share and I’ll promise to be as responsive as I can.  Enjoy!