Since, "true knowledge exists in knowing that you know nothing" (Socrates), I have decided that despite my certification and a continuous reading on the matter, I would enrich my knowledge of etiquette by registering to a special training with a french expert. Motivated by the thirst of knowing more and to provide an excellent service myself, I chose Versailles City.
This is not a random choice. We know Versailles because of its famous grandiose castle, Louis XIV, Marie-Antoinette,... but we should also know that this is where Etiquette as we know it was born and has been anchored as a way of life for nobles and aristocrats in the 17th century.
France de Heere, french etiquette expert, welcomed me in the intimacy of her apartment in Versailles so I can be immersed into the daily life of a family from the French bourgeoisie and aristocracy.
It started with introductions. Madame de Heere told me about her background and the programme she was able to prepare for me thanks to the exchange of emails we had. I was able to tell my story, my aspirations and my expectations. This conversation was useful and essential, it was delightful to see that she was carefully listening to what I have to say so she could help me reach my goals.
Part I - The History
I love History. European History but more particularly, French History.
I like to understand what has made our culture as we know it today. Why do we speak the way we speak? Why have we decided that eating should be a refined ritual, even an art and not just a way to stay alive? And I have learnt a great deal.
For instance, I have learnt that ballet is a refined art polished by King Louis XIV himself! It was interesting to discover the reasons behind the decision of setting strict rules at the king’s court, the impacts and the consequences of it.
France de Heere had explained it to me very well and was always ready to answer all of my questions.
Part II: In the afternoon, I've registered for the Prestige package. I have enjoyed a 3 hours lesson where we, another fellow eager to learn and I, have learnt to introduce ourselves and others properly, how to set an elegant table, how to dine, how to host and many other rules worth knowing to improve our image and boost our self-confidence.
I definitely recommend L'Atelier du Savoir-Vivre by France de Heere on your next trip to Versailles! Visit the castle, of course, but do yourself a favour and add a lesson of French Etiquette to complement your trip and discover the french noble within you.
Luckily for you, I used to have an in-depth programme that would provide all the knowledge to develop the skills you need, this programme is no longer delivered through consulting however, it will be available in a comprehensive book I am working on! Don't hesitate to subscribe to get an alert whenever it is out!
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