“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
About Us
Jan V. Stewart has a remarkable career dedicated to helping people shine. She is a specialist in the refined art of etiquette and interpersonal skill-building, offering her expertise to a wide and distinguished clientele, including high-profile individuals, dignitaries, military personnel, and VIPs.
Whether working with established C-suite executives or guiding recent college graduates and young professionals, Jan designs tailored etiquette programs that build confidence and create lasting, positive impressions.
Her impressive experience spans over two decades in senior operations and administrative support for some of the most prominent organizations in the world, including the United States Senate, the Department of State, Corporate Television News, and the private sector.
Jan’s clients gain life-long skills, thanks to her eight years of mastery in international diplomacy. This includes serving at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo, Japan, and working for former Secretary of State Madeleine K. Albright. Her deep understanding of diplomatic protocol and refined social decorum allows her to build trust and act as a crucial liaison in both formal and informal settings.
Most recently, as Chief of Staff for the Leonsis Family Office, Jan expanded her expertise into managing large family estates. Her proactive, relationship-building approach and attention to vital details have truly set her apart, establishing her as a top expert in the field of global etiquette and consistently demonstrating the highest standards of professional conduct.
Jan resides in Arlington, VA, with her husband, a retired Army Colonel. She holds a Certificate in Etiquette Consulting from The Etiquette Institute and genuinely enjoys helping her clients discover creative ways to professionally grow and connect with others. She has also recently did an interview for The Etiquette Institute which can be found here. In her personal time, she is a licensed private pilot, a skill that speaks to her dedication to precision and focus.
Our Philosophy
Queen Victoria reigned over Great Britain and Ireland from 1837 until she died in 1901. I heard a story about her recently that made me stop and think.
As the story goes, Queen Victoria was hosting a guest from a foreign country. At the end of the meal, finger bowls of water were passed around so that everyone could clean their hands. The guest of honor had never seen such a thing, so he lifted it to his mouth and drank it. Stunned silence passed through the room until the Queen raised her finger bowl to her mouth and drank. And then all the guests followed suit.
Whether it’s an urban legend or a fact, it’s a great example of acceptance. It shows how to make people feel that they are perfect just the way they are.
There will always be people who would shout from the rooftops at that moment, “What are you doing? That’s not for you to drink!” May we all strive to be people who drink from the finger bowl. We should show the person who “made the mistake” that they are one of us. As taught by The Etiquette Institute, etiquette is for everyone.
