I do not usually share tons of personal information on the web or social media.  However, I feel it necessary in this instance to give you some personal history.  So, here goes…

I started down a different road nearly four years ago.  I was pregnant with my second child and feeling the full force of life upon me.  It was busy.  I felt the need to simplify. I wanted to do right by my family-all of my family.  I distinctly remember saying a prayer one night and asking for guidance.  I wanted to be happy in all areas of my life and not feel so pulled in every direction.  (I know I am not the only one who feels this way.) Slowly, I began to realize that what I love is people and making them happy but how could this be a career for me?  Sure, I liked to entertain, give gifts, and make people laugh but I wasn’t rich.  I didn’t have Elvis or Oprah cash so I wasn’t in a position to bless others. Or was I? 

I began googling, researching, and thinking.  Then, it hit me like a ton of bricks. Etiquette consulting.  I have always had an old soul and memory for what some seem to think is useless knowledge.  I like “doing things the right way” and enjoy learning why we do what we do.  So, it seemed like a good fit until I started telling people.  The reception by the ones who didn’t laugh at me was lukeworm and I could tell everyone was trying to find the right words so as not to hurt my feelings.  Others would ask me things such as “So, you are going to teach me what fork to use, right?”  Now, please don’t misunderstand.  I’m not being negative here or unkind, just honest.  I understand that to some this is a crazy move.  I get it.  I was 35 with two little kids and starting all over.  I have no explanation for it other than I felt and feel led to make this change in my life. 

Who am I to teach etiquette and protocol?  I asked myself this same question.  I wasn’t born into wealth or even a debutante.  I was, however, taught to be kind to others and show respect to everyone.  So, I feel certain I can do this job and certain that you can, too.  Do I think I’m perfect? No.  I make mistakes everyday.  I’m human.  However, each day since this transformation began I try to improve upon something that I failed at the day before. 

I truly believe that if we want to see a change in our lives, then we must learn to look within.  Practicing manners is no easy feat and it takes quite a bit of control and discipline.  However, when you exude good manners people will notice something different about you.  A pleasantry.  They will be drawn to you because of it and you, not me, will ignite a change in them.  I believe Emily Post said it best when she said, “Manners are a sensitive awareness of the feelings of others.  If you have that awareness, you have good manners, no matter what fork you use.”

But, yes.  I will teach you what fork to use.  I will teach you how to be the extra 1%.  I will teach you to do this not so you can look down upon others but so you can be the best YOU possible.  I will teach children social rules that will segue into improved behavior.  I will help the high school student prepare for that first interview. I will advise college students how to be “coachable” in their first job.  I will instruct business professionals in how to dine both here and abroad.  I will do this because manners still matter and they matter because people will always matter.  

Thank you for taking a moment to read this blog post.  If you enjoyed it, please share.  Have a kind day.