I had the absolute joy of joining Tiffany Blackmon on her podcast, My So-Called Fabulous, to talk all things etiquette—from the magic of meaningful conversation to decoding table settings with a fun BMW trick (yes, it’s a thing!).
If you want to go directly to the part of the podcast where I show you how to set a formal setting, go to time stamp 29:51 on the You Tube video.
The Importance of Teaching Manners to Children
We dove into how teaching children manners builds confidence, fosters connection, and creates a sense of community—especially in a world where smartphones often take center stage. And because we all know etiquette isn’t just for the dining table, we explored why these skills are just as vital in the workplace and beyond.
This lively, insightful conversation is full of tips and inspiration for anyone passionate about teaching manners and social skills. Whether you’re already certified or dreaming of starting your journey, this episode will leave you energized and ready to make a lasting impact.
Last week was nothing short of extraordinary—a whirlwind of speaking engagements that showcased the growing interest in etiquette across generations. In just three days, I had the privilege of presenting to over 150 people, ranging in age from 4 to 54. The week was a perfect illustration of the increasing demand for etiquette education, and it reaffirmed why this field is more relevant than ever. Watch the videos below.
A Highlight: Teaching Children at The Union League of Philadelphia
One of the standout moments was a children’s etiquette program at The Union League of Philadelphia, a cherished client of mine for over two decades. This iconic venue provided the backdrop for a gathering of 50 eager young participants, all ready to learn the art of good manners.
From setting up a dining tutorial for such a large group to coordinating an elegant dessert that left a lasting impression, the event was a wonderful example of how etiquette can be both fun and formative. It’s no surprise that this program, held twice a year, continues to be a highlight for the families who attend.
These days, however, I step into this role sparingly, focusing instead on mentoring and empowering my licensees, who are trained and certified to bring etiquette education to their communities. Passing the baton to others ensures that this important work can reach even more children and families, creating ripple effects of civility and confidence.
The week also included a business etiquette speaking engagement, reinforcing the surge of interest in professional presence and communication skills. From preschoolers learning how to hold a fork to executives mastering cross-cultural communication, the scope of etiquette is vast and ever-expanding.
Curious to see more? In my latest video, I share a behind-the-scenes look at the children’s etiquette program at The Union League:
A tour of the event space designed for 50 children
How we set up a dining tutorial for large group instruction
Your Next Step
Whether your dream is to teach manners to children or to deliver impactful business etiquette workshops, becoming certified is your gateway to making a difference. Imagine hosting events like these in your community, helping people of all ages build confidence, respect, and connection.
Start your journey today and join a growing movement of etiquette educators changing lives one lesson at a time.
Here is a FREE Guide to Help YOU Start a Business Teaching Manners to Children
If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOTself-guided.
PRIVATE Training. That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business. Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.
Two Events That Inspired My Fall: Design and Dining for a Cause!
This fall has been filled with beauty, creativity, and giving back—a wonderful combination! I had the pleasure of attending two incredible design events: Design Matters NC in North Carolina and the Kips Bay Decorator Showhouse in Dallas. These gatherings were more than just beautiful displays of interior design; they’re annual celebrations of artistry with a heart. For anyone in etiquette, events like these are goldmines of inspiration and connection, plus they support organizations making a difference in children’s lives. Let me share why these events were so unforgettable (and why you should put them on your list for next year)!
Event #1: Design Matters NC—Where Tables Are Works of Art
Held to benefit the UNC Children’s Health Hospital, Design Matters NC is where southern charm meets high design. Interior designers from across the South gather each year to create stunning, festive tablescapes, and this year was no exception. Each table setting was like a mini-masterpiece! From elegantly rustic to boldly contemporary, each setting had its own personality. As I walked through, I was in awe of the creativity on display.
For a certified etiquette expert, this event is a perfect example of how table settings can transform a dining experience into something truly memorable. Observing the details, from silverware placement to color schemes, offers endless ideas to share with clients or use in teaching settings. Plus, supporting a cause like UNC Children’s Health makes the experience even more meaningful.
Event #2: Kips Bay Decorator Showhouse—Dallas Glamour Meets Giving Back
The Kips Bay Decorator Showhouse has long been a mainstay in the design world, supporting the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and this year’s Dallas showcase was nothing short of spectacular! Housed in a stunning chateau in Turtle Creek, the showhouse brought together some of the finest designers, each transforming rooms into intricate, awe-inspiring spaces. Every corner, every color, every carefully chosen piece seemed to tell its own story. I was truly blown away by the beauty surrounding me.
After soaking up the elegance of the showhouse, I headed downtown to Mirador with a dear friend. Mirador is famous for its modern, elevated dishes, and I may have had one of the best pasta dishes of my life there—so simple, yet so full of flavor, rivaling any plate I’ve had in Italy!
Why Events Like These Matter for Etiquette Experts
As a certified etiquette expert, attending high-profile design events provides unique inspiration, both for the eye and the heart. First, it’s an incredible way to witness the art of table presentation—a skill that elevates any dining experience. Beyond that, these events connect you with communities and causes that matter. Both UNC Children’s Health and the Boys & Girls Clubs of America work tirelessly to support children, making it a privilege to be part of events that give back.
Takeaways for Etiquette Experts:
Network and Inspire: These events are ideal networking spaces. Connecting with designers and event planners can provide insights into styling, hosting, and presentation that align perfectly with etiquette teachings.
Market Yourself by Supporting Good Causes: Show your community involvement by attending and promoting events that support meaningful causes. It’s a wonderful way to market your services while giving back.
Absorb the Details: From table settings to room decor, the smallest details can enhance your teaching toolkit. Whether you’re creating a dining tutorial or giving advice on hosting, these events offer fresh, chic inspiration.
So, here’s to a season of creativity, community, and giving back. If you’re an etiquette expert looking for ways to expand your perspective (and your network!), add these events to your list for next year. Who knows, you may walk away with new ideas, new connections, and—if you’re lucky—the perfect pasta dish, too!
If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOTself-guided.
PRIVATE Training. That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business. Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.
Charm School is a very popular request from mothers. It allows you to teach manners to children in a way that is fun and allows for creativity. You have heard about mixing pureed vegetables into brownies and cookies – to hide them so your children will eat their greens. Well, Charm School can take on that role when teaching children manners.
One day, a mother called to discuss the options for a birthday party for her daughter. The mother mentioned she wanted something fun and different – an option with a bit of a “takeaway“, an educational experience in addition to the usual fun and games. She wanted to step away from the pack and offer something other than a sports activity or bouncing at the latest trampoline park.
Together, we customized a birthday party that centered around manners and social skills. Of course, the other parents were delighted to send their children to this type of party.
During your etiquette training and certification, we spend a great deal of time preparing you for this type of phone call from a parent. We spend time teaching you the mechanics of all different types of clients. We believe in customization. It is the main reason why businesses succeed today. You must meet the needs of your client.
We teach you how to grow and expand your menu of services. Manners To Go is not a one-size fits all type of program. Your success is guaranteed if you follow our plan.
Topics to Teach Charm School
Eye contact
Handshakes
Introductions
How to sit like a lady
Posture
Respect
Table manners
Thank you notes
Activity Books to Teach Charm School
When you are trained by Manners To Go, everything you need to teach any type of program is provided. In fact, we even provide templates for you to use to write a proposal.
Imagine this: A parent calls and they are interested in one of your programs. What do you provide them? A proposal giving details about how you can help them, the topics, a bio, and of course your fees. When you are trained by us, you are confident that every step is covered and you represent yourself in the highest professional manner.
If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOTself-guided.
PRIVATE Training. That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business. Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.
Manners To Go™ is taught in public, private and charter schools around the world. The New York Times, Parents Magazine and Fox News have all featured Manners To Go and the many benefits of teaching social skills to children.
Whether you are an educator who wants to teach it in the classroom or someone who is looking to become trained and certified, we provide all the solutions.
My name is Lisa Richey, and I am the founder of Manners To Go™ . This brand has given me the honor of teaching manners to thousands of people around the world. The journey has taken me from Portland, Oregon to the Middle East. I believe that manners are not about judgment or rules. Manners are about self-interest. It really is about how using good manners makes you feel on the inside
Testimonials for Manners To Go
Lisa is a great mentor and her Manners to Go program is truly turn key. She taught me everything that I needed to learn to ensure that I will be successful in my endeavor . The program has been very helpful every step of the way. I feel truly blessed that I am part of her team. ~ Rita Linda Dayrit Philippines Etiquette Consultant, Manners and Mindfulness
Lisa is a consummate professional and has been an invaluable resource to me as I begin my new business. Not only is she warm and welcoming in person, she is also an expert in her field who makes the subject matter relatable and accessible to her clients. Her training has provided me with a vast knowledge of etiquette and best practices for teaching it.
As an international business operator, I have been impressed with Lisa’s curiosity and questions, which enabled her to advise me and apply her product in a new region for a new audience. Her knowledge of marketing enabled me to hit the ground running and hold my first classes within weeks of becoming certified. Not only have I opened my own business but I have also gained a teammate who is committed to my success. ~ Jenni F., Macau, China
Lisa Richey’s Manners To Go certification program provides a highly efficient and effective training program for anyone considering starting a manners and etiquette business. I selected her program because of the virtual delivery method of training. The lesson plans and student handouts were easy to download and review before engaging in her one-on-one conference calls. During each call, Mrs. Richey was very focused in conveying her business strategies she has proven to be successful over the years. Mrs. Richey’s Manners To Go certification program is really a “best value” program considering her efficient use of the virtual delivery method of training, the quality of teaching materials provided and the effective, interactive business calls with her I found necessary to guide my steps to make the business of teaching manners successful. ~ Aleta Greenspan, Alabama
As a former teacher, I deliberated for months over which etiquette curriculum would best fit and equip me with quality materials, instruction and support to reenter the field of education. Manners To Go delivers! I regret not getting started sooner. The investment is modest for the quantity and caliber of materials you receive, not to mention the personal coaching from Lisa. The curriculum is age appropriately structured and organized in an easy to study format that positions you to execute your lesson confidently prepared. If you have a passion for equipping young people in etiquette, Manners To Go, is the way to go! ~ Alissa R. | Etiquette Consultant
I was looking for charm school type material for my after school program for girls, and came upon the Manners To Go website. It was like finding a treasure trove of “what-to-do(s)” and “how-to-do(s)” on manners for children. It was more that I could have imagined finding. It is, without a doubt, one of the best decisions I have ever made.
In receiving my MTG training, Lisa provided every tool and resource needed to become a successful MTG Consultant. What excited me the most is that the training includes access to her many years of experience as a successful businesswoman.
I recommend the MTG program to parents, grandparents, teachers, after school programs, or anyone who may be concerned about what our children need know about manners and etiquette. Lisa’s Manners To Go is a great product, and it is a joy working with her! ~ Lindafaye N. Etiquette Consultant
Lisa, I am so happy I found you. I’ve wanted to teach kids etiquette for years, but never had the time to research all the material and then figure out how to teach it. With your Manners To Go program, I now have the perfect program to start my business. You delivered exactly what you promised: excellent support and a turnkey system. Thank you for making it easy and fun! It was truly an honor to be trained by someone of your caliber and experience, who was willing to share “everything you know, do, and use” with me. I would highly recommend you to anyone wanting to teach children’s etiquette! ~ Sandra E., Etiquette Consultant
Lisa went above and beyond what she promised to deliver. Her enthusiasm she shares for my business is very reassuring. I have found a life long mentor. ~ Michele W. Etiquette Consultant
I am often asked, “how to teach children table manners”. Table manners are very important as they provide an invaluable level of confidence for children.
It is amazing how a six-year-old child can charm and mesmerize you from a distance. We were in Madrid a few years ago at The Westin Hotel waiting patiently for our table. I looked over at a cute little girl having breakfast. She was intensely involved with consuming her eggs and bacon. This little one ate beautifully and elegantly in fine continental style. Obviously, her parents took her out to eat often and traveled with her. She handled her knife and fork with ease and grace. I couldn’t help but smile and point her out to my husband. We tried not to stare!
What’s the difference between dining styles, and is it acceptable to use the continental (or European) style in the United States? Will eating this way be seen as incorrect? And, most importantly, which style should I teach my children?
Below, you’ll find answers to commonly asked questions about introducing different dining styles to children.
American vs. Continental Dining Styles: Should Children Know the Difference?
What is the difference between American and Continental style dining?
European style is where you keep the knife in your right hand and eat with the fork in your left (for those who are right-handed). The fork is lifted to your mouth with the tines down.
In American style, you cut with the knife in your right hand and the fork in your left. After cutting, you put your knife at the top of your plate, blade facing toward you, switch your fork to your right hand, and the left hand goes in your lap while enjoying your bite.
The tines of the fork face up as the food goes into your mouth. With both styles, while cutting, remember to cut only one bite-sized portion at a time. For young children, it is acceptable to cut the entire chicken breast (or steak, etc.) at one time to make mealtime easier. However, this is not the case for adults.
Which style do I teach children and at what age should I introduce both?
By age 10 and beyond, children should be familiar with both the American and European dining styles.
While they may feel more comfortable with the American style simply because it’s what they’re used to seeing, it’s essential that students understand that the European style is equally acceptable, even in the United States.
Explain that they may grow up and have opportunities to travel internationally.
Knowing both styles helps them recognize European dining as a valid option, so if they observe others eating this way, they’ll understand it’s an appropriate and respectable choice—not something “odd.”
Teaching table manners with this cultural awareness prepares students with well-rounded etiquette skills for global settings, a valuable part of etiquette certification programs.
When teaching good manners, it’s essential to guide children on proper fork and knife usage and refined eating techniques. In today’s fast-paced society, meals often include finger foods like chicken nuggets or apple slices, which don’t require utensils. As a result, children miss the opportunity to learn how to hold a fork correctly, often ending up using utensils like a shovel—a habit that’s improper in any culture.
How do I teach children to correctly hold a fork while eating?
This is so very important. Using a fork correctly is the same as holding a pencil. The child balances the fork on his middle finger with the index finger and thumb on top.
If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOTself-guided.
PRIVATE Training. That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business. Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.
These 5 Powerful Tools Will Help You Discover How Our Etiquette Certification Program Assists You in Getting a FAST START.
A new licensee had her first training call today. She chose the video option.Even though it was her first call, we had the chance to talk about all of her ideas on where she wanted to offer her manners programs. Later this week we will have her second call. She is in the works of using our templates to propose a program for a nine-week after-school workshop.
Another licensee who has almost completed her certification wants to focus on preschool.In fact, this licensee already has submitted a proposal to a library in her community.
This brings us to the first tool….
5 Powerful Tools to Get You Started Teaching Manners to Children
Because these tools will serve you so well, I am sharing them with you here.
THESE TOOLS WILL SAVE YOU TIME, MONEY, AND FRUSTRATION
Commit to these tools and your business will flourish.
Proposal Templates: This is a lifesaver!If you do not have a template on how to get started on proposal writing, you will procrastinate.
This is the reason so many of our licensees get a FAST START.We make this step easy.
Legal Forms: We include the necessary sample legal forms such as a Film and Photo Release andHealth and History Forms (food allergy, etc.).
These forms will save you time and legal fees.
Contract Templates:Providing a “contract is not only professional but serves as a reminder of the event you have booked and a payment schedule.
Accounting Guidelines:How do you keep up with everything?How do you invoice and accept payments?
Website Assistance:We are here for you.This is a big step and our system offers you all the help and guidance you need to get started on marketing yourself and your new business online.
Testimonial from a Current Manners To Go, Licensee
“Thanks to Manners To Go, the last three years have provided experiences that I would have never encountered.
MTG has been the vehicle that put my passion for equipping youth with valuable life skills into motion.
I have learned from a variety of enriching instructional opportunities over the last few years including private instruction, country clubs, an inner-city behavioral program, after-school programs, scout troops, and much more!
There is something so rewarding about seeing a student, the outgoing and talkative or quiet and reserved alike, gain confidence as they learn and apply the tools to navigate an otherwise intimidating social situation with ease”.
Are you following Manners To Go on Instagram? Facebook?
If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOTself-guided.
PRIVATE Training. That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business. Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.
Manners To Go™ is taught in public, private, and charter schools around the world. The New York Times, Parents Magazine, and Fox News have all featured Manners To Go and the many benefits of teaching social skills to children.
Whether you are an educator who wants to teach it in the classroom or someone who is looking to become trained and certified, we provide all the solutions.
My name is Lisa Richey, and I am the founder of Manners To Go™. This brand has given me the honor of teaching manners to thousands of people around the world. The journey has taken me from Portland, Oregon to the Middle East. I believe that manners are not about judgment or rules. Manners are about self-interest. It really is about how using good manners makes you feel on the inside
Lisa is a great mentor and her Manners to Go program is truly turn key. She taught me everything that I needed to learn to ensure that I will be successful in my endeavor . The program has been very helpful every step of the way. I feel truly blessed that I am part of her team. ~ Rita Linda Dayrit Philippines Etiquette Consultant, Manners and Mindfulness
Lisa is a consummate professional and has been an invaluable resource to me as I begin my new business. Not only is she warm and welcoming in person, she is also an expert in her field who makes the subject matter relatable and accessible to her clients. Her training has provided me with a vast knowledge of etiquette and best practices for teaching it.
As an international business operator, I have been impressed with Lisa’s curiosity and questions, which enabled her to advise me and apply her product in a new region for a new audience. Her knowledge of marketing enabled me to hit the ground running and hold my first classes within weeks of becoming certified. Not only have I opened my own business but I have also gained a teammate who is committed to my success. ~ Jenni F., Macau, China
Lisa Richey’s Manners To Go certification program provides a highly efficient and effective training program for anyone considering starting a manners and etiquette business. I selected her program because of the virtual delivery method of training. The lesson plans and student handouts were easy to download and review before engaging in her one-on-one conference calls. During each call, Mrs. Richey was very focused in conveying her business strategies she has proven to be successful over the years. Mrs. Richey’s Manners To Go certification program is really a “best value” program considering her efficient use of the virtual delivery method of training, the quality of teaching materials provided and the effective, interactive business calls with her I found necessary to guide my steps to make the business of teaching manners successful. ~ Aleta Greenspan, Alabama
As a former teacher, I deliberated for months over which etiquette curriculum would best fit and equip me with quality materials, instruction and support to reenter the field of education. Manners To Go delivers! I regret not getting started sooner. The investment is modest for the quantity and caliber of materials you receive, not to mention the personal coaching from Lisa. The curriculum is age appropriately structured and organized in an easy to study format that positions you to execute your lesson confidently prepared. If you have a passion for equipping young people in etiquette, Manners To Go, is the way to go! ~ Alissa R. | Etiquette Consultant
I was looking for charm school type material for my after school program for girls, and came upon the Manners To Go website. It was like finding a treasure trove of “what-to-do(s)” and “how-to-do(s)” on manners for children. It was more that I could have imagined finding. It is, without a doubt, one of the best decisions I have ever made.
In receiving my MTG training, Lisa provided every tool and resource needed to become a successful MTG Consultant. What excited me the most is that the training includes access to her many years of experience as a successful businesswoman.
I recommend the MTG program to parents, grandparents, teachers, after school programs, or anyone who may be concerned about what our children need know about manners and etiquette. Lisa’s Manners To Go is a great product, and it is a joy working with her! ~ Lindafaye N. Etiquette Consultant
Lisa, I am so happy I found you. I’ve wanted to teach kids etiquette for years, but never had the time to research all the material and then figure out how to teach it. With your Manners To Go program, I now have the perfect program to start my business. You delivered exactly what you promised: excellent support and a turnkey system. Thank you for making it easy and fun! It was truly an honor to be trained by someone of your caliber and experience, who was willing to share “everything you know, do, and use” with me. I would highly recommend you to anyone wanting to teach children’s etiquette! ~ Sandra E. Etiquette Consultant
Lisa went above and beyond what she promised to deliver. Her enthusiasm she shares for my business is very reassuring. I have found a life long mentor. ~ Michele W. Etiquette Consultant 2016
Lisa Richey provides etiquette programs to businesses, schools, and individuals.
