Elegance isn’t only about pearls and perfect posture—it’s about presence.
In a world buzzing with notifications, fast conversations, teaching children the art of connection is a modern-day superpower.
Good manners are no longer about knowing which fork to use at a formal dinner.
Today, they’re about confidence, kindness, and knowing how to navigate every social situation with ease. And if you’re thinking about starting a business teaching manners to children, you’re not just sharing etiquette—you’re shaping the future.
Why Manners Matter More Than Ever
In a world where face-to-face interactions are becoming rare, those who can shake a hand with confidence, hold a conversation with ease, and send a thoughtful thank-you note (instead of just a thumbs-up emoji) will always stand out.
Grace never goes out of style—it evolves.
When you become a certified manners expert, you get to teach: ✔ The Power of First Impressions: A polished introduction is unforgettable. ✔ Confidence Through Conversation: How to speak with warmth, clarity, and ease. ✔ Social Skills That Open Doors: Knowing how to engage, listen, and respond.
Quick Tips: The New Manners for a Modern World
Want a taste of what you’ll teach? Here are three simple lessons that instantly elevate everyday interactions:
💡 The One-Second Rule: Eye contact should be warm and natural—hold for one second before glancing away. It signals confidence, connection, and presence.
💡 The Signature Greeting: Teach children to introduce themselves with a firm handshake, a smile, and a clear “Nice to meet you!” This small act is a game-changer.
💡 The ‘Thank You’ Effect: Encourage handwritten notes, thoughtful follow-ups, and a sincere “thank you” in conversations. Gratitude is a luxury in today’s digital world.
Teaching manners isn’t about old-school rules—it’s about giving children the tools to shine in every room they walk into. And when you do, you become the go-to expert in your community.
Ready to turn your love for etiquette into a thriving business? Let’s get you certified. Because grace, confidence, and charm never go out of style.
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.
So many people dream of teaching manners to children, coaching professionals, or becoming a sought-after etiquette speaker. But the question often comes up: Am I really ready to begin?
The truth is, there are clues all around you. If you’ve ever felt the nudge to start your own etiquette business, these three signs may confirm that the time is now.
Sign #1 — You Notice the World Needs It Everywhere
Do you find yourself spotting etiquette gaps at the dinner table, in schools, or even in workplace meetings? When you see missed opportunities for kindness, confidence, or connection, it’s often a sign that you’re meant to step in and guide. Your awareness is more than an observation—it’s the spark of leadership.
Sign #2 — People Already Ask for Your Advice
If friends, colleagues, or parents often come to you for guidance, you’ve already stepped into the role informally. They trust your voice, your presence, and your ability to model what’s right. Certification gives you the structure, resources, and authority to turn that natural gift into a thriving business.
Sign #3 — You Crave Work with Purpose and Flexibility
Many of us reach a moment where we want more than just a job—we want meaningful work that aligns with our values and gives us freedom. Starting an etiquette business allows you to create impact while building a career that fits your life. Whether your dream is working in schools, leading workshops, or speaking at events, certification provides the pathway.
If you recognized yourself in any of these signs, it may be time to take the next step. Certification is how you move from dreaming to doing—from noticing to leading.
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.
Etiquette Certification: 5 Powerful Tools to Get You Started
With etiquette training in the spotlight more than ever, there has never been a better time to step into your role as a certified etiquette professional. Certification isn’t only a credential — it’s a transformational journey that equips you with the tools, confidence, and authority to build a business you love. Below, I share five powerful tools that every etiquette certification provides — each designed to help you inspire, teach, and lead with presence.
Helping You Make a Meaningful Mark on Today’s Youth
Are you thinking of embarking on a journey of teaching manners to children?
If so, you are about to start a rewarding experience.The world needs exactly what you have to offer.
New licensees have shared with me so many stories as to why they started their businesses.
Teaching manners is part of our culture. Children enjoy and benefit from the confidence of knowing how to behave in all social situations.
Every child deserves to learn good manners.
You May Want to Ask YourselfThese 3 Questions
1.Do you want to start on the right foot and create your own business teaching etiquette certification to children and teens?
2.Do you want to make it easy and purchase a total start-up program that has absolutely everything you need?
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….
Power Tool #1: A Modern Curriculum That Captivates and Inspires
Bring timeless etiquette to life with lesson plans designed for today’s audience. A certification provides resources that are both polished and practical—so you can teach with clarity, ease, and confidence.
Power Tool #2: A Proven Framework for Building Authority
Stand out as the expert. Certification gives you a reliable structure for programs, workshops, and talks—so you can step into opportunities with credibility and momentum.
Power Tool #3: Transformational Training That Elevates Your Voice
Beyond knowledge, you’ll gain the presence, poise, and professionalism to lead sessions that leave a lasting impression—online or in person.
Power Tool #4: A Community of Support and Connection
You’re never alone. Certification connects you with mentors, peers, and ongoing resources that empower your growth and expand your impact.
Power Tool #5: A Pathway to Purpose and Profitability
Certification opens doors. Whether you dream of teaching children, coaching professionals, or launching your own brand, you’ll have the direction and assets to succeed.
Ready to become the trusted authority in your community? Now is the time to step into your role with confidence.
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
Downton Abbey Returns: Timeless Etiquette Lessons for Today
The release of the final Downton Abbey movie, The Grand Finale, takes me back to a cherished memory: the afternoon tea I hosted in my home in 2019 to celebrate the very first film. Planning the menu, preparing my home, and welcoming new friends brought me immeasurable joy. It felt as though we were stepping into another era—one filled with charm, ritual, and the beauty of refined living.
For those of us drawn to the world of manners, etiquette, and timeless elegance, Downton Abbey offered more than a television series. On Sunday evenings, it gifted us a moment of pause—a retreat into a world where grace and sophistication were woven into everyday life. Even now, when I hear the opening notes of the PBS theme, I feel a familiar warmth in my heart.
A Cultural Moment of Elegance
The final chapter of Downton Abbey is more than a movie release—it’s the closing of a cultural era that reminded us of the beauty of tradition, refinement, and gracious living. Whether it was Lady Mary setting the tone at the dining table or Carson reminding us of the dignity of service, the world of Downton continues to inspire how we show up—poised, prepared, and present.
Afternoon Tea—Then and Now
One of the great delights of Downton Abbey is the ritual of afternoon tea. My own tea menu in 2019 included buttermilk currant scones with clotted cream and lemon curd, cucumber cream-cheese sandwiches with watercress, a delicate egg-salad on white and wheat, and a shaved fennel salad with walnuts and mint. More than a menu, tea is a mindset—an invitation to slow down, savor connection, and add beauty to the everyday.
3 Timeless Etiquette Lessons from Downton Abbey
The Art of Hosting — Hospitality isn’t perfection. It’s creating an atmosphere where others feel seen, valued, and cared for. Thoughtful details (a handwritten place card, a warm greeting at the door) elevate the entire experience.
The Elegance of Conversation — Graceful conversation is a dance: listen generously, ask curious questions, and contribute with warmth and brevity. Civility never goes out of style.
Graciousness in Everyday Life — From posture to punctuality, simple courtesies signal respect. Small gestures—standing to greet, offering a seat, sending a timely thank-you—create lasting impressions.
Bring Timeless Etiquette Into Your Community
Elegance and etiquette are not relics of another era—they’re timeless skills that help children and adults thrive today. If you feel called to share these values in schools or your community, I invite you to explore certification with Manners To Go®. Our modern curriculum and training help you teach presence, confidence, conversation, and polished social skills with ease.
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.
What This Classic Book Still Gets Right About Teaching Etiquette
There’s a certain charm in books that continue to pop up in conversation decades after they were written.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been asked: “Have you ever heard of White Gloves and Party Manners?”
Luckily, I do! I have a copy, thanks to a dear friend who passed it along. Every time I flip through it, I smile. The illustrations. The gentle tone. The formality. It’s a beautiful snapshot of another era.
Originally published in 1965 by Marjabelle Young and Ann Buchwald, this beloved book was once a go-to guide for teaching children proper behavior in social settings. And to this day, it continues to spark curiosity—especially among those interested in teaching etiquette to children.
But the question remains:
Is it outdated?
Let’s take a gracious look.
What’s Delightfully Outdated About White Gloves and Party Manners (But Still Fun to Read)
Like a charming black-and-white movie, some details in the book feel like they belong to another time:
White gloves and party dresses for girls at every occasion
Strict gender roles—like boys always making introductions and pulling out chairs
Rigid hosting rules such as avoiding paper napkins or only sending formal invitations
While these elements might not align with modern lifestyles, they do reflect a culture of formality and care—a foundation worth remembering.
What’s Still So Relevant (and Always Will Be)
Here’s why White Gloves and Party Manners still matters:
It teaches universal manners—the kind that never go out of style.
Timeless etiquette lessons include:
How to be a gracious guest and thoughtful host
Speaking politely and joining conversations with ease
Using good table manners and posture at the dining table
Making others feel included and respected
These are the exact skills we still emphasize in today’smanners curriculum—because they create confidence, connection, and character in children.
Why This Book Still Comes Up in Conversation
At its heart, White Gloves and Party Manners isn’t about outdated rules—it’s about timeless respect. It’s a reminder that children thrive when they’re taught social skills that help them feel confident in any setting.
In fact, many of the lessons I teach in the Manners To Go® curriculum reflect the spirit of this book—just updated for the modern world.
And yes, kids still love pretending they’re dining at a restaurant, dressing up for a party, or writing heartfelt thank-you notes.
Bringing Etiquette Into Today’s World
Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or someone who wants to start a business teaching manners to children, there’s value in blending tradition with modern relevance.
That’s exactly what we do at Manners To Go®—take the best of classic etiquette and pair it with real-life tools kids can use today.
Curious About Teaching Etiquette to Children?
If you’ve ever dreamed of starting a business like this, I’d love to show you how.
Why This Matters if You’re Considering Etiquette Certification
Books like White Gloves and Party Manners show us that there’s always been a desire to teach children how to be kind, confident, and considerate. And that desire hasn’t gone away—it’s only grown stronger.
If you’re someone who feels called to teach manners, lead with grace, and start a meaningful business that empowers children, this book is a beautiful reminder that you’re stepping into a legacy.
Throughetiquette certification with Manners To Go®, you’ll learn how to bring those timeless values into today’s world—whether you’re teaching one lesson or leading full workshops in schools, libraries, and beyond.
Modern etiquette education isn’t about outdated rules—it’s about creating future-ready kids with social skills that help them thrive.
And yes—your journey can begin with just one lesson, one storybook, one spark.
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.
Discover which iconic style fits your personality—and how it could shape your path as an etiquette expert.
A Personal Note: Why Audrey Will Always Have My Heart
A few years ago, I did something a little whimsical—something only a true admirer of classic elegance would do. I purchased every sheet of Audrey Hepburn stamps I could find. To this day, if you’ve ever received a handwritten note from me, you’ve likely noticed one of those stamps… or perhaps an Oscar de la Renta.
Audrey Hepburn is an icon I will always adore. I love everything about her—her grace, her quiet confidence, her unmistakable elegance. But I also admire Katharine Hepburn: bold, witty, and full of tomboy charm.
They are both magnetic. Both powerful. Both unforgettable.
And in many ways, both Hepburns represent two powerful paths for women who teach etiquette.
The Audrey Archetype: Grace, Soft Power, and Manners
Are you more of an Audrey? Audrey Hepburn was the embodiment of quiet strength. She taught us that elegance is not about being noticed—it’s about being remembered.
A deep love for beauty, tradition, and timeless values
Audreys are gentle guides. They model refinement in every interaction—especially when teaching manners to children or coaching professionals on executive presence.
The Katharine Vibe: Wit, Confidence, and Bold Authenticity
Now, if you’re more of a Katharine, you bring something equally extraordinary. Katharine Hepburn never followed the rules. She rewrote them. She showed the world that strength and authenticity could be just as elegant as pearls and gloves.
The power to lead from the front and inspire action
A fresh, modern voice that resonates with today’s audience
Katharines teach etiquette with humor, clarity, and confidence. They captivate students—especially those who need to see that manners can be powerful, not just pretty.
Why Both Make Brilliant Etiquette Experts
Whether you lead with Audrey’s elegance or Katharine’s charisma, both styles are needed in today’s world. Why?
Because manners aren’t just about which fork to use—they’re about human connection, personal power, and emotional intelligence.
And no matter your style, if you value grace, presence, and empowering others, you already have what it takes to become a brilliant etiquette expert.
Etiquette Certification for Women Who Want to Lead with Style and Substance
At Manners To Go, we believe in the power of both elegance and authenticity. Our etiquette certification program is designed for women who want to:
Teach children life-changing social skills
Launch a fulfilling business with freedom and purpose
Use their natural presence—Audrey or Katharine style—to make a lasting impact
Whether you’re soft-spoken or high-spirited, you have a voice that deserves to be heard. We’ll help you refine it, package it, and share it with confidence.
So, Which Iconic Style Fits Your Personality?
Are you an Audrey—graceful, thoughtful, and quietly powerful? Or a Katharine—witty, strong, and unapologetically bold?
Either way, the world needs your light. And we’d love to help you shine.
Lisa Richey provides etiquette programs to businesses, schools, and individuals.
