Meet Etiquette Coach and Etiquipedia Contributor, Carla M. West, founder of the Graceful Manners Academy in Southern California. We are pleased to have the Spotlight on Carla in October!
So far, etiquette enthusiast Carla M. West's articles have been a way of paying loving tribute to her wonderful son. Full of joy and curiosity, he was a young man who loved his husky dog, "Cookie," and who just also happened to have Down Syndrome. Etiquette and Dance Instructor, West, wanted people to know that her son was just like any other kid who loved to laugh, play and explore the world around him. Like any other kid, his feelings could get hurt as well. Brandon and his mom want every kid to know that kids with Down Syndrome are just like you - they just want to be loved! But as an etiquette professional, she will be contributing more articles in the future regarding etiquette for everyone.
Carla loves working with kids of all ages. She is photographed here discussing “etiquette for sunglasses.” Her upcoming article on etiquette for such fashionable, yet helpful and necessary accessories, should be excellent.
Below are links to just a few of Carla M. Wests’ articles on etiquette which you’ll find on Etiquipedia:
- Etiquette and Down Syndrome
- How to Prepare Your Down Syndrome Child to Have Tea in Public
- Etiquette Lessons and Down Syndrome
What was the impetus for starting your Etiquette business?
Growing up, I enjoyed helping and giving dinner, gatherings for family and friends under the watchful eye of my mother. I developed the passion of correct tableware placement, table conversation and good manners. That passion was indeed the impetus for starting my etiquette business.
What do you enjoy most about teaching etiquette?
I would say the service of afternoon tea is truly a favorite for me! It’s a time for relaxation with a favorite tea, sweet bread a good book… It’s so comforting!
What do you find rewarding about teaching etiquette?
Oh, it is transformation of a student that I find rewarding! A student who is shy, awkward student to become self-confident with social skills. It is so worth it teaching etiquette!
What type of classes do you offer?
What age group do you enjoy working with most?
As a previous teacher, and mother of a Down Syndrome child, I enjoy teaching children and adults with Down Syndrome.
They are willing to learn, they just learned differently! I found that throughout the time I earlier taught children worship, dance, flags ballet, and musical instruments, there was missing piece needed for them to be well-rounded in social graces, knowing how to introduce themselves, table manners, proper conversation etc… Graceful manners Academy became part of the finishing touch that the children needed to succeed socially. There is an Etiquette class for Down Syndrome students at Graceful Manners Academy, my son was the first student! I am so inspired by their enthusiasm, willingness to learn! They just learn differently!
Which are some of the older etiquette authors or authorities you enjoy reading?
I enjoy reading the classics. I love Amy Vanderbilt, Emily Post and Judith Martin.
If you’d like to reach Carla, you can call her. Said Carla, “At Graceful Manners Academy, you are given the grace to succeed!
Call for information (909)552-1553”
What do you enjoy most about teaching etiquette?
I would say the service of afternoon tea is truly a favorite for me! It’s a time for relaxation with a favorite tea, sweet bread a good book… It’s so comforting!
One of Carla’s favorite times of day is afternoon, when she relax with a cup of tea and something to nibble on.
What do you find rewarding about teaching etiquette?
Oh, it is transformation of a student that I find rewarding! A student who is shy, awkward student to become self-confident with social skills. It is so worth it teaching etiquette!
What type of classes do you offer?
- Basic etiquette
- Prince/ Princess Class
- Self development class
- Afternoon tea with Tea history
- Etiquette training for Down Syndrome students
- Prince/ Princess Summer Day Camp
What age group do you enjoy working with most?
As a previous teacher, and mother of a Down Syndrome child, I enjoy teaching children and adults with Down Syndrome.
They are willing to learn, they just learned differently! I found that throughout the time I earlier taught children worship, dance, flags ballet, and musical instruments, there was missing piece needed for them to be well-rounded in social graces, knowing how to introduce themselves, table manners, proper conversation etc… Graceful manners Academy became part of the finishing touch that the children needed to succeed socially. There is an Etiquette class for Down Syndrome students at Graceful Manners Academy, my son was the first student! I am so inspired by their enthusiasm, willingness to learn! They just learn differently!
Which are some of the older etiquette authors or authorities you enjoy reading?
I enjoy reading the classics. I love Amy Vanderbilt, Emily Post and Judith Martin.
If you’d like to reach Carla, you can call her. Said Carla, “At Graceful Manners Academy, you are given the grace to succeed!
Call for information (909)552-1553”
🍽Etiquette Enthusiast, Maura J. Graber, is the Site Editor for the Etiquipedia© Etiquette Encyclopedia
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