What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I, and my fellow teachers, are constantly reading every book we can find on Etiquette and Imaging. I personally have been certified from not only one fantastic Etiquette School in Atlanta, but from three other schools as well, gleaning different ideas from other areas of the country and Europe.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your service? If so, please share the details here.
Our rates are based on either: per person, group size, hourly, or length of lesson.
Basic hourly rates in a group are $35-$50 per person.
Larger groups can start at $20 per person.
Teacher and qualifications (body language, etiquette, imaging, etc. can effect the price)as well as distance traveled, lessons covered, and expense of venue, and what books and products are included.
We can work within almost every budget and distance.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
I grew up in Georgia and my mother was a "stickler" about proper manners. It's always been a natural fit. When my children started school I noticed there seemed to be a lack of proper behavior that I felt I could offer. My children took etiquette classes from another instructor and said they were "boring" and "awful". I knew with my Disney background I could find a better way.
What types of customers have you worked with?
Corporate and Business Trainings on Business Etiquette, Communication, The Best Sales Techniques, Body Language.
Dating and Social Skills
Children's Fine Dining Classes
Cotillion Classes for 5th-8th
Children's Classes after school for ages 3-5
Summer Camps ages 4-11
High School classes on Etiquettte
College Etiquette and Interview skills
Wedding Etiquette
Tea Classes for children or corporate
Fine Dining or Business dining
Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?
I recently worked with one of my coaching clients (a nuerosurgeon) who was seen as cold to his co-workers and clients, on his connecting and "graciousness". He called to report to me that he has seen such a difference in his patients recovery since he has changed his body language, eye contact, and words of comfort.
My favorite classes are those who's children learn kinder words and gracious behavior with both their parents and siblings.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
Find out what coaching your consultant offers. Many instructors only offer etiquette advice, children's classes, or are not properly certified. Image consultants are not usually certified in Etiquette. Finding a coach who can instruct you on wardrobe, imaging, etiquette, social savvy, and how to find what makes you special, is what a great instructor will help you find. Real skills you can use and not just "fluff".
Find out what their followup will include. A good teacher wants to make sure their student not only gets the information, but applies it!
What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
You may not think proper etiquette is important, but others do, and your faux paus may be hurting you!
As a Daughter of the American Revolution I have grown up knowing what true graciousness and hospitality mean. Etiquette isn't just about learning the "rules" as most would have you believe, but a way of doing things that are from the heart and focused on anothers comfort.
Dannie Fowler is certified from The American School of Protocol, The Etiquette Survival School from Los Angeles, Mrs. Reilly's Cotillion Course in Tampa, as well as several other online finishing courses. She was a professional actress in NYC and starred in shows at Disney World for eight years in both Orlando and Tokyo.
Author of several books, staff etiquette teacher at The Parke House Academy, College and Corporate Speaker. She is the owner of The Etiquette School of Florida, The Winter Park Social Club, The Fabulous Red Shoe Club (women's networking group), and the proud mother of some very well behaved children.
