It's Cool to Be Human Again
Why modern etiquette and social skills matter more than ever — plus upcoming classes for children, students, and professionals
Last week, we led two special etiquette sessions that left me feeling even more enthusiastic (who knew that was even possible) about the importance of etiquette in 2026.
The first was with the analyst class at U.S. Bank, where we covered dining etiquette (during an instructional three course meal), the art of conversation, and the subtle habits that can unintentionally make someone appear less experienced in the office or at a client dinner.
The second was a modern etiquette session for a group of college juniors with full-time careers on the horizon. We discussed the art and science of conversation (including how to begin a conversation with anyone), psychology behind first impressions, the art of thank-you notes, host and guest etiquette, etc.
Modern etiquette matters today more than ever, for more reasons than I have time to discuss in this essay, but I’ll quickly share two.
First, modern etiquette opens the door to deeper, more meaningful relationships. The Harvard Study of Adult Development — the longest-running study on happiness, and one that is still ongoing today — continues to show that the quality of our relationships is one of the strongest predictors of a happy and fulfilling life. And who doesn’t want more of that?
Second, in the age of AI, as so many students ask what the future holds and the job market feels increasingly uncertain (in ways that eerily remind me of graduating into the Great Financial Crisis in 2009), I find myself encouraging students to hone the one thing technology cannot replace: genuine human connection. Social intelligence, communication skills and consideration for others are what will set people apart. Modern etiquette at its best.
It is cool to be human again. Hallelujah.
Below are a few of the upcoming modern etiquette classes and coaching opportunities we’re currently offering — designed to build confidence, communication skills, and meaningful social connection in a world that needs these skills more than ever.
Modern Etiquette + Academic Readiness Classes for 4- and 5-Year-Olds Preparing for JK and Kindergarten (confidence, conversation skills, classroom readiness) | Charlotte
Modern Etiquette Consulting for Rising College Freshman Young Women Preparing for Sorority Recruitment (confidence, communication skills, polished first impressions, and recruitment preparation) | Virtual | Learn More
Modern Etiquette Classes for Kindergarten - 5th Grade Students (kindness, confidence, conversation skills, and thoughtful social behavior) | Charlotte | July Class are sold out. August Classes with availability:
Back to School Pop-up Etiquette Workshop Kindergarten - 5th Grade (confidence, first impressions, friendship building skills)
Middle School Cotillion for Grades 5–8 (modern manners, ballroom dance, dining etiquette, friendship skills, and confidence) — Charlotte
Private Etiquette Coaching for Students and Professionals (professional presence, communication skills, dining etiquette, etc.) — virtual and Charlotte — currently sold out; join the waitlist here
Mannerly Favorites
Things I’ve tried and genuinely love -
Heirloom Pastel Portraits - a forever treasure
Lovely platform party shoe (and incredibly comfortable)
Personalized Stationery - always a thoughtful gift
Bootcut jean and that checks all the boxes
In the hustle of Maycember Madness, I’ve been drawn to a simple uniform: jeans, a cognac belt, and a crisp white button-down. Here are my current favorites —
The Charlotte Shirt - relaxed fit, easy wash and wear, wrinkle resistant
The Jet Set Shirt - polished, wrinkle resistant
The James Shirt - three-quarter sleeve detail
And my favorite cognac belt to pair with all of the above.
You can view all of my favorites here.
Thank you for being part of our Mannerly community - I sincerely appreciate you being here and please leave any questions below.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Elizabeth Anne
Founder, Mannerly
About the Author
I’m Elizabeth Anne Russell, founder of Mannerly™ and Mannerly School of Etiquette.
After a 17-year career in management consulting, I left corporate life to build a modern etiquette and social-skills education company inspired by my late mother and a deep belief that kindness, confidence, and social fluency are life skills.
Through Mannerly, I work with children, families, schools, and organizations to teach timeless manners through a modern, social-science-backed lens, helping people move through the world with greater presence, confidence, and consideration for others.
Here on The Mannerly Edit, I share thoughtful guidance on modern etiquette, raising socially confident children, business etiquette, hosting and gathering well, and navigating life with grace in a complicated, often uncomfortable world.
Let’s Stay in Touch
Follow along on Instagram: @CharlotteEtiquette
Follow along on LinkedIn: Mannerly
Explore etiquette classes and online offerings: Mannerly.com
Have a question or a topic you’d love me to cover? You’re always welcome to reply or leave a comment.
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