Welcome to the blog

and other etiquette thoughts

You had great intentions. You took the photo, ordered the cards, maybe even addressed and stamped them. But just couldn’t get them in the mail in time. What do you do now? Is it ok to send Christmas cards after Christmas? Of course it is! It’s never too late to connect with those you love. […]

Is it ok to send Christmas cards late?

Dec 27, 2022

Following the theme of “American Flair,” eight competitive tablescapers created beautiful patriotic displays.

2022 Chowan Fair Table Setting Competition Results

Oct 1, 2022

The purpose of boy-girl pairs is to help keep our genders balanced within the cotillion classes. Typically, young gentlemen are a tad more reluctant to attend cotillion than young ladies. You’re shocked, I know. Therefore, our class rosters could easily result in a class full of ladies and only a handful of gentlemen. Unbalanced numbers […]

All about Boy-Girl Pairs at cotillion

Sep 5, 2022

If you want to know how to start a cotillion, manners school, or etiquette program in your area, I’m happy to share! If you’ve got about 12-14 days a year to dedicate to this, you, too, can start a program that will help young people in your community improve their soft skills, practice face-to-face interactions […]

How to Start a Cotillion

Jul 22, 2022

This one-handed method for how to tie a tie is simple for kids, teens, and beginners and will give you a great looking tie knot.

How to Tie a Tie for Kids, Teens, and Beginners

Jul 19, 2022

If you’ve been invited to a party, gathering, or overnight stay, it’s always a kind gesture (and good etiquette) to take a hostess gift. But if it’s a kid-centered or family-friendly event, why not take a gift the entire host family can enjoy?

Hostess Gift Ideas for Families with Children or Teens

Jul 8, 2022

Shopping for cotillion clothes for middle schoolers is no easy tasks! I hope this gives you inspirations and perhaps a place to start!

Cotillion Clothes Ideas for Middle School Girls and Boys

Oct 5, 2021

The 2021 Table Setting Competition was held at the Chowan County Regional Fair on September 27, 2021. Besides the Celebration Ball that marks the end of the cotillion season, this competition is my most favorite etiquette event of the year! 2021 Theme: Water The theme this year was simply “Water”. The contestants were told they […]

2021 Table Setting Competition Results

Sep 29, 2021

woman on phone at table

I have an unpopular opinion. As an etiquette instructor, I’m going to stop teaching my students to leave their phones away from the dinner table. Hear me out… ⁣⁣For years now I’ve been teaching students: “Don’t bring your phone to the dinner table. Leave it in the car or in your room.” ⁣⁣But the more […]

It’s time to STOP teaching our kids: “keep your phone away from the dinner table.”

Aug 16, 2021

I’ve been thinking about this whole left side vs. right side name tag etiquette debate for way too long now. I’m nerdy like that. But it’s ok- I’ve accepted it’s just who I am. Most of my friends still love me. So, instead of just thinking on it, I decided to compile all my ridiculously […]

What side should you wear a name tag? The evidence and the verdict.

Jun 15, 2021