Etiquette Matters....

"Respect and Professionalism in the Amaretto Auction Community"

The Amaretto Breedables community in Second Life thrives on collaboration, shared passion, and a strong sense of camaraderie. Markets and auctions are central to this ecosystem — places where breeders come together not just to buy and sell, but to connect and grow. With that in mind, it’s essential to talk about a topic that often goes unspoken: etiquette.

Auction and market etiquette isn’t just about following rules — it’s about fostering a respectful, welcoming environment for everyone involved. While breeders are expected to maintain good behavior, that same standard should apply equally to market and auction house owners. Respect is not a one-way street — it’s a shared responsibility.

Professionalism in Communication

One important area where etiquette often falters is in how communication is handled. Sending unsolicited promotional messages through direct messages or personal contacts — often referred to as “personal spam” — can feel intrusive and unwelcome. Breeders should have the choice to opt into the advertising they want to receive, typically through joining official groups or subscribing to notecards and boards.

Respecting that boundary is essential. Using friendship lists or previous conversations as a means to bypass consent not only undermines trust but can also create discomfort within the community.

Responding with Respect

When someone sets a boundary — such as asking not to receive direct promotional messages — that choice should be honored without challenge or confrontation. Demanding explanations or reacting negatively only creates tension where none needs to exist.

Professionalism means accepting feedback graciously, even when it isn’t what one might want to hear. It means responding with maturity and kindness, regardless of the situation.

Setting the Tone as a Leader

Market and auction house owners have a unique role in shaping community culture. As leaders and hosts, their behavior often sets the tone for others. That includes how they communicate, how they manage conflict, and how they model respect toward both staff and patrons.

Leading by example is one of the most powerful ways to elevate the standards of a community. It helps create a space where breeders feel safe, respected, and excited to participate.

A Shared Responsibility

At its core, etiquette is about mutual respect. It's about recognizing that everyone — breeder, bidder, host, or market owner — plays a part in the health of the community. When respect is consistently practiced from all sides, it strengthens the bonds that make this community truly special.

Let’s continue to grow the Amaretto auction scene with kindness, patience, and integrity. By holding ourselves to higher standards, we ensure that the breedables experience remains one of connection, joy, and shared success.

Etiquette is a two-way street.
Respect is not only something patrons owe to auctioneers or market owners — it’s something we all owe to each other.

Auction etiquette is more than just following rules; it's about cultivating a space where people feel valued, heard, and safe. That includes:

• Respecting boundaries. If someone asks not to be messaged directly with promotional material, honor that. No questions asked.
• Handling feedback gracefully. When someone expresses discomfort or sets a boundary, don’t challenge them — thank them for their honesty.
• Leading by example. If you own a market or run auctions, your behavior sets the tone. Choose kindness. Choose professionalism.

At the end of the day, we’re all here because we love the same thing — the thrill of breeding, the joy of auctions, and the friendships that grow from shared passion. Let’s not let poor etiquette tarnish that.

As a moderator and a breeder I believe deeply that the community we build is a reflection of the behavior we allow. So let’s hold ourselves — and each other — to higher standards.

To all market owners, auctioneers, and breeders: let’s make this space better. Let’s make it kinder. Let’s make it one where respect isn’t optional — it’s expected.

Because etiquette, like breeding, takes patience, care and effort.