To Whom It
May Concern: A year ago I found myself in France as the recipient
of a writing fellowship. I was asked to dine with
significant authors and artists in
formal European dining situations every night over the course of my four week
stay. While I come from a family who dined socially on a regular basis, and felt
perfectly comfortable with basic
etiquette in the United States, I was self conscious
about my formal dining skills when confronted with the delicacies
of the French table.
I returned home resolved to address my unexpected insecurities,
determined never to
question table protocol again. It was a stroke of
good fortune that lead me to Colette Swan's website, as I truly
believe
that she is uniquely gifted in the field of etiquette. I contacted
Colette, explained my situation and
arranged a meeting.
I was delighted to find a sympathetic guide, who alleviated my concerns and
embarrassment,
reassuring me that my dilemma was a common one, and
easily fixed. Over the course of one lesson, Colette coached me
through
every possible dining scenario. Utensils and techniques that I had
envied in my European dining companions
became familiar and attainable.
Beyond that, Colette brought a sense of fun and playfulness to an
endeavor fraught
with the insecurities of being an 'adult' student.
I forgot, under her tutelage, that I was learning things
I 'should'
have already known, and embraced the process of instruction. The
loveliest part about the experience
(apart from my invaluable new
skills) was that I left the lesson feeling like I had dined with a
friend. I cannot
say enough about Colette Swan's professionalism,
commitment to the art of etiquette, and ability to communicate
information in a positive, encouraging way. I am grateful for all I
learned from her, and think of her whenever
I sit down to a formal meal.
K.G. Los Angeles.
Dear
Colette,
Thank you so much for sharing your time, talents,
grace and patience with our large Brownie troop. Many people warned me that this age was too young to be able to benefit from
etiquette lessons, but thanks to your creative and thoughtful presentation of the material, the girls were able to grasp many
of the concepts. I have seen them all grow so much this year, and reap the rewards of the lessons you taught them this winter.
I hope we can have you come back to teach
them further when they are Cadettes.
A.W.
Ventura.
