The Finishing Touch® 5-Day Finishing School

International Etiquette Course Covering Social Etiquette, Dining Etiquette, Entertaining, Image and Deportment.

The Finishing Touch® is Europe's leading Finishing School programme and will help you upgrade your social success and confidence in five days!

Day 1

Module 1: International Social Etiquette

Uncover the nuances of British and Continental European social codes as well as International behaviour around the world. Master formal and informal introductions and forms of address whilst practicing the social skills of meeting, greeting and building rapport with cultural sensitivity. Unmask the differences between local social vs International business etiquette whilst discovering the secrets of handshakes, air kisses and other greetings along with the international notions of eye contact, body language, gestures and smiling.

Module 2: How to be More Confident – The Art of Networking and Socialising (lunch included)

Turn social parties and business networking events into meaningful opportunities for new relationships. Learn how to become more at ease as we share tips and advice to help you become more comfortable in such situations.

Put your new-found skills to the test as this segment continues over an informal buffet lunch, allowing you practice in situ. A variety of scenarios will be covered from how to strategically enter a room, how to start, extend and gracefully exit a conversation. How to manage food and drink when standing, the exchange of business cards and much more!

Module 3: How to be More Confident (Part 2) – Personal Image and Society Dress Codes

Learn how to distinguish style from fashion and add class to every wardrobe with extended knowledge into the details of being well-dressed, ensuring you put your best image forward…every time. Gain insight into the codes of the understated elegance of English classics. Construct a stylish appearance from breakfast to the ballroom… and all of the society events in between.

Day 2

Module 4: The Art of Entertaining and Being Entertained

For a light tête-à-tête for two or a grand State Banquet for 150, discover the attributes of sophisticated hosts and hostesses, as well as distinguished guest duties. Enhance confidence in compiling menus for a cross-cultural guest list along with the mastery of designing seating plans according to precedence.

Module 5: Timeless Correspondence

In this age of emails and instant messages, receiving a handwritten note has become a rare treat. Regain an eye for the lost art of beautiful stationery. Interactive exercises utilising luxurious engraved note cards will help you to add a touch of refinement to your personal and business correspondence by mastering the do’s and do-not’s of elegant and timeless correspondence.

Module 6: Social Etiquette and the Rise of 'Polite' Society

You will enjoy a unique etiquette tutorial that engages you on the trail of Queen Victoria’s London – including the historic Albert Memorial, Royal Albert Hall frieze art and a unique etiquette tutorial on the 'Rise of Polite Society' in England and its international influences and outcomes on western society.

Step back in time and witness, through artefacts and history, the beautiful table settings of the 1800's, the elements of a proper wardrobe, an elaborate social salon, antique tea service and the appropriate etiquette to accompany each one.

Day 3

Module 7: The Art of the Table

Do you prefer to be the host or the guest? As a host, it is time for you to enjoy the role of setting a formal table. As a guest, you will enhance your confidence by discovering how to navigate a multitude of utensils and stemware seamlessly and elegantly.

This hands-on visually engaging session will distinguish between official protocol, formal and informal table décor, table settings, table service and table manners (British, French, American and international variations). Learn the international placement variations as well as usage of tricky utensils such as the escargot holder, fruit cutlery, coupes versus flutes, et cetera.

Module 8: Elegant Formal Dining Tutorial (lunch included)

Master the art of fine dining in the elegance of our mansion hotel’s dining room where you will enjoy a full, formal six-course luncheon where no detail is left unturned.

Learn how to navigate a formal table setting, proper utensil usage and how to eat difficult-to-manoeuvre foods with style and grace. Special attention will be given to decoding the nuances of English vs French dining styles, as well as various do's and do not's around the globe.

Day 4

Module 9: Posture, Poise and Deportment

Learn to project confidence, elegance and charismatic leadership through your movements by reinforcing proper posture and body language. You will discover guidelines and tactics for graceful standing, walking, sitting and gesturing as well as professional tips to add presence and style to your daily routine.

Ladies will discover techniques for elegantly walking in high heels, descending a staircase and getting in and out of a car with grace.

Gentlemen will fine-tune their skills for properly escorting a lady (in social and business engagements), putting on and removing coats and enhancing their personal skills from the dining room to the boardroom.

Module 10: International Body Language

Learn a foreign language: How to ‘speak’ different body languages. Culture conditions what we believe are acceptable and unacceptable, as a result, to build stronger international relationships, an understanding of non-verbal communication is a must.

In this module you will learn about facial expressions, physical greetings, gestures and mannerisms around the world.

Module 11: British Etiquette and Royal Protocol

Gain unprecedented insight into the social codes and practices of the English Aristocracy with this very special etiquette tutorial. This session is filled with dazzling displays, interactive experiences and views into the alluring world of Royal Etiquette.

Day 5

Module 12: Voice, Speech, Elocution and The Art of Communication

As the ‘manner’ in which you say something is equally as important as ‘what’ you say, this module unveils the codes and nuances of the art of communication enabling you to improve your social presence by further developing the skills practiced on day one.

Practice effective voice, speech and elocution techniques to improve the quality of your verbal and non-verbal messages.

Module 13: Public Speaking, Interview Techniques and Personal Presence

Improve your presentation skills by becoming a more accomplished public speaker. Whether on stage, in a Boardroom or on a telephone call, the all-important skills required for verbal diplomacy in conversation are paramount.

We will work with you to stretch your comfort zone by sharing tactics to effectively manage anxiety and to increase confidence… enabling transformative social skills. Interview techniques and the creation of a dynamic personal presence will round out the week’s programme.

Module 14: The Art and Etiquette of English Afternoon Tea (tea meal included)

Afternoon Tea is a British institution, one bound with codes for the uninitiated… which once mastered, is highly enjoyable. Learn the differences between Cream Tea, Afternoon Tea, Royal Tea and High Tea whilst gaining insight into the origins and traditions of teatime.

This is a delightful hands-on tutorial including an elegant 4-course meal.

Certificates and Group Photograph

Tuition includes dynamic interactive etiquette lessons, expert instruction, off-site visits, tutorial meals where applicable, an illustrated workbook, refreshments, materials and a certificate of attendance.

Day 5

Module 12: Voice, Speech, Elocution and The Art of Communication

As the ‘manner’ in which you say something is equally as important as ‘what’ you say, this module unveils the codes and nuances of the art of communication enabling you to improve your social presence by further developing the skills practiced on day one.

Practice effective voice, speech and elocution techniques to improve the quality of your verbal and non-verbal messages.

Module 13: Public Speaking, Interview Techniques and Personal Presence

Improve your presentation skills by becoming a more accomplished public speaker. Whether on stage, in a Boardroom or on a telephone call, the all-important skills required for verbal diplomacy in conversation are paramount.

We will work with you to stretch your comfort zone by sharing tactics to effectively manage anxiety and to increase confidence… enabling transformative social skills. Interview techniques and the creation of a dynamic personal presence will round out the week’s programme.

Module 14: The Art and Etiquette of English Afternoon Tea (tea meal included)

Afternoon Tea is a British institution, one bound with codes for the uninitiated… which once mastered, is highly enjoyable.

Learn the differences between Cream Tea, Afternoon Tea, Royal Tea and High Tea whilst gaining insight into the origins and traditions of teatime.

This is a delightful hands-on tutorial including an elegant 4-course meal.

Certificates and Group Photograph

Tuition includes dynamic interactive etiquette lessons, expert instruction, off-site visits, tutorial meals where applicable, an illustrated workbook, refreshments, materials and a certificate of attendance.

2026 Dates

• July 24th – 28th
• November 13th – 17th

Cross-Cultural International Business Success

International Business Success – Cross-Cultural

Intercultural Awareness for Enhanced Business Relations

To be competent and competitive in the global arena, effective cross-cultural communication is vital. The “International Business Success” module is a 4-hour workshop packed with tips and tactics to broaden your cultural awareness.

You will learn how to promote clear lines of communication and develop more effective relationships by:

• Handling cultural differences with confidence
• Better managing perceptions and misperceptions
• Broadening your global awareness
• Understanding global business customs and terminology
• Creating low-context and high-context bridging strategies
• Mastering international conversation skills
• Learning how to build teamwork in an international environment

International cultural understanding is not only beneficial in the development of your career, but it also contributes to your overall social success by building stronger interpersonal skills, awareness, confidence and self-analysis for the benefit of all your relationships.

Inter-Cultural Management & Leadership

Executive Education for Global Leaders

Learn to lead across cultures, borders and time zones. Say goodbye to the world of yesteryear... a world that had borders, a world that had obstacles leading to misunderstandings and a world where there was one perceived right and wrong way of doing things.

Goodbye. Au revoir. Adios. Today's business world requires a new understanding of the multitude of acceptable ways of doing business.

Successful business persons will replace 'right and wrong' with 'different' by understanding the impact of culture as a powerful factor in shaping how people think, communicate and behave.

By joining us here on this page, you have taken the first step to becoming an international business person of the highest calibre and we are delighted to say Welcome. Bienvenue.

Enhance your understanding of the values and beliefs that shape social and business etiquette norms in various regions and become prepared to lead in a world without borders.

Regional Business Etiquette

American Business Etiquette
Work more effectively in North America by discovering the social etiquette and business etiquette norms in Canada and the United States of America.

European Business Etiquette
Facilitate increased productivity by discovering the social etiquette and business etiquette norms of various Western, Central and Eastern European countries.

Middle Eastern Business Etiquette
Enhance rapport in the Middle East by discovering the social etiquette and business etiquette norms of the GCC states.

African Business Etiquette
Foster increased professionalism by discovering the social etiquette and business etiquette norms of various West and East African regions.

Asian Business Etiquette
Develop stronger professional relationships in Asia by discovering the social etiquette and business etiquette norms of China, Japan and India.

Latin American Business Etiquette
Strengthen business potential by discovering the social etiquette and business etiquette norms of Central and South America.

Polished Global Professional – Styled and Dressed for Success

The Polished Global Professional

International Business Etiquette for the Global Professional

The codes of business etiquette in the USA or Canada are not the same as in the UK, France or in other parts of the world, therefore etiquette training that is not global in scope is no longer relevant.

Gain the competitive edge by eliminating cultural borders with this exclusive 1-day workshop designed for businesspersons aspiring to advance their career and social life on an international scale.

In this hands-on interactive workshop you will gain an understanding of how to master the new codes of contemporary international behaviour in order for you to position yourself as credible, knowledgeable, cultured and authoritative; thereby making a positive and lasting impression every time, everywhere.

The Polished Global Professional will teach you more than just Basic Business Manners 101. You will learn how subtle but critical behaviours can often make or break an important meeting, influence a first impression or impress a potential client, both at home and abroad.

You will feel as comfortable in London or Paris as in Moscow, Beijing, New York, Toronto or Dubai.

An additional complimentary one-to-one online coaching session will enable you to develop intercultural strategies specific to one of more than 80 business cultures most applicable for your career.

Note: For a full International Business Makeover, this course is offered in conjunction with International Business Success (Cross Cultural Awareness) and Styled for Success (Executive Image), which are both offered on the Friday preceding The Polished Global Professional.

“Very insightful course with must-know content for all those who are keen to develop the essential to success soft-skills. After completing this course I personally feel that I now have the capabilities to adhere to appropriate etiquette in any circumstances.”
– MM, Executive at Google

“The training increased my self-confidence in various situations: introductions & greetings, dining and how to interact in a business environment.”
– AB, M.A. Student at London School of Economics

Executive Image on a Global Scale – Styled for Success

Executive Image on a Global Scale – Styled for Success

Tuition offered as a private group programme for six delegates – $1400.00 plus tax/GST. Tuition includes 2.5 hours dynamic expert instruction, lunch, an illustrated workbook, refreshments, materials and a certificate of attendance.

Note: For a full International Business Makeover, this course is offered in conjunction with The Polished Global Professional (International Business Etiquette) and International Business Success (Cross-Cultural Awareness).

Executive Image on a Global Scale – Styled for Success

The Executive & Professional Image Workshop “Styled for Success” will help you create a successful international business image that propels your career to the top, irrespective of the industry and regardless of the corporate dress-code.

You will discover the nuances and characteristics of a well-dressed professional by increasing your knowledge of:

• Appropriate formal business looks and attire
• The four levels of “business casual”
• Characteristics and fabrics for formal business suits
• How to say “I am a leader” when the dress code is casual
• Looks to avoid in business
• Masculine and feminine accessories and grooming
• Business wardrobe plans for all seasons
• Constructing a capsule wardrobe
• Packing for business trips
• Choosing the right dress code for the right job
• Other business-related dress codes

You will also receive advice on:

• Clothing lines for the business environment
• Matching clothing and bodylines and ensuring proper fit

And to wrap it all up in the perfect professional package, you will discover how to understand the basics of colours; what they say in business and how to use them in your personal business attire.

Note: For a full International Business Makeover, this course is offered in conjunction with The Polished Global Professional (International Business Etiquette) and International Business Success (Cross-Cultural Awareness). Please click the links below for additional information.

European Elegance & Savoir-Vivre

The Personal Touch – European Elegance and Savoir-Vivre

Private Session

Tuition: Offered as a private group programme for six delegates – $5500.00 plus tax/GST. Tuition includes dynamic expert instruction, an illustrated workbook, lunches, refreshments, materials and a certificate of attendance.

The Personal Touch is all about the art of being your own best brand. Personal branding is as important to a person as product branding is to a tangible item.

How do you communicate that you are special, attentive to detail, refined and valuable? By adding a personal touch to all that you do... which is indeed an art.

Discover how to brand yourself as elegant and sophisticated by leaving your personal mark of distinction on everything you touch — from gift wrapping to floral arranging, the difference is in the details.

The Personal Touch

• The Art of Elegant Gift Wrapping
• The International Art & Etiquette of Gift Giving
• Voice, Speech, Elocution and Personal Presentation
• The Art & Etiquette of Flowers and Floral Arranging
• The Art & Elegance of Personal Stationery, Correspondence and Calligraphy
• The French Art of Accessorizing – including tying and wearing elegant scarves
• Elegant Napkin Folding for Formal and Informal Entertaining

Savoir-Vivre

The Fine Art of Living Your Life Well

A Multi-Sensory International Etiquette & Savoir-Vivre is much more than a programme; it is a full-fledged 5-star experience.

Experience a world of discovery through a unique multi-sensory experience where you will taste the cuisine and feel the beauty of Europe, Asia (China, Japan, India) and the Middle East.

Each segment will focus on the following topics of each region:

• Social Etiquette
• Business Etiquette
• Traditional Dining with daily hands-on tutorials in authentic local restaurants
• Exciting Art de Vivre activities related to the region’s customs and lifestyle

Highlights include participation in a traditional Chinese luncheon tutorial, delicate Indian afternoon treats, French and English artistic savoir-vivre, an exclusive cultural tutorial and much, much more.

Offered as a private group programme for six delegates – Tuition includes dynamic expert instruction, daily off-site visits and exclusive tutorials, three interactive cultural lunches, an illustrated workbook, refreshments, materials and a certificate of attendance.

Learn more. Do more. Enjoy more... Be more!

Making good choices is the art of living well. There are hard choices to make in order to achieve your dreams… but we are committed to making your investment of time — whether it is one day, one week, or one month — worth every minute.

We understand that how much enjoyment you get out of your social life is directly related to how much knowledge you invest in it.

We will help you take your success to the next level. Contact us today and let the journey begin.

Executive Image on a Global Scale – Styled for Success

Executive Image on a Global Scale – Styled for Success

Tuition offered as a private group programme for six delegates – $1400.00 plus tax/GST. Tuition includes 2.5 hours dynamic expert instruction, lunch, an illustrated workbook, refreshments, materials and a certificate of attendance.

Note: For a full International Business Makeover, this course is offered in conjunction with The Polished Global Professional (International Business Etiquette) and International Business Success (Cross-Cultural Awareness).

Executive Image on a Global Scale – Styled for Success

The Executive & Professional Image Workshop “Styled for Success” will help you create a successful international business image that propels your career to the top, irrespective of the industry and regardless of the corporate dress-code.

You will discover the nuances and characteristics of a well-dressed professional by increasing your knowledge of:

• Appropriate formal business looks and attire
• The four levels of “business casual”
• Characteristics and fabrics for formal business suits
• How to say “I am a leader” when the dress code is casual
• Looks to avoid in business
• Masculine and feminine accessories and grooming
• Business wardrobe plans for all seasons
• Constructing a capsule wardrobe
• Packing for business trips
• Choosing the right dress code for the right job
• Other business-related dress codes

You will also receive advice on:

• Clothing lines for the business environment
• Matching clothing and bodylines and ensuring proper fit

And to wrap it all up in the perfect professional package, you will discover how to understand the basics of colours; what they say in business and how to use them in your personal business attire.

Note: For a full International Business Makeover, this course is offered in conjunction with The Polished Global Professional (International Business Etiquette) and International Business Success (Cross-Cultural Awareness). Please click the links below for additional information.

European Elegance & Savoir-Vivre

The Personal Touch – European Elegance and Savoir-Vivre

Private Session

Tuition: Offered as a private group programme for six delegates – $5500.00 plus tax/GST. Tuition includes dynamic expert instruction, an illustrated workbook, lunches, refreshments, materials and a certificate of attendance.

The Personal Touch is all about the art of being your own best brand. Personal branding is as important to a person as product branding is to a tangible item.

How do you communicate that you are special, attentive to detail, refined and valuable? By adding a personal touch to all that you do... which is indeed an art.

Discover how to brand yourself as elegant and sophisticated by leaving your personal mark of distinction on everything you touch — from gift wrapping to floral arranging, the difference is in the details.

The Personal Touch

• The Art of Elegant Gift Wrapping
• The International Art & Etiquette of Gift Giving
• Voice, Speech, Elocution and Personal Presentation
• The Art & Etiquette of Flowers and Floral Arranging
• The Art & Elegance of Personal Stationery, Correspondence and Calligraphy
• The French Art of Accessorizing – including tying and wearing elegant scarves
• Elegant Napkin Folding for Formal and Informal Entertaining

Savoir-Vivre

The Fine Art of Living Your Life Well

A Multi-Sensory International Etiquette & Savoir-Vivre is much more than a programme; it is a full-fledged 5-star experience.

Experience a world of discovery through a unique multi-sensory experience where you will taste the cuisine and feel the beauty of Europe, Asia (China, Japan, India) and the Middle East.

Each segment will focus on the following topics of each region:

• Social Etiquette
• Business Etiquette
• Traditional Dining with daily hands-on tutorials in authentic local restaurants
• Exciting Art de Vivre activities related to the region’s customs and lifestyle

Highlights include participation in a traditional Chinese luncheon tutorial, delicate Indian afternoon treats, French and English artistic savoir-vivre, an exclusive cultural tutorial and much, much more.

Offered as a private group programme for six delegates – Tuition includes dynamic expert instruction, daily off-site visits and exclusive tutorials, three interactive cultural lunches, an illustrated workbook, refreshments, materials and a certificate of attendance.

Learn more. Do more. Enjoy more... Be more!

Making good choices is the art of living well. There are hard choices to make in order to achieve your dreams… but we are committed to making your investment of time — whether it is one day, one week, or one month — worth every minute.

We understand that how much enjoyment you get out of your social life is directly related to how much knowledge you invest in it.

We will help you take your success to the next level. Contact us today and let the journey begin.