How to Start a Cotillion

Defined as the French word for petticoat, cotillions combine social graces and ballroom style dance with etiquette training for young people. The image of high-society youth gathered in stuffy, secluded settings may reflect cotillions of yesteryear. Today's progressive cotillions teach respect, courtesy, sensitivity and encourage inclusiveness. Start a cotillion by contacting organizations who host them.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Explore resources such as libraries, electronic sources and school districts for cotillions in the same city, region or state in which the organizer resides. For example, check out a book about starting a cotillion or research the Internet. Contact public affairs departments of school districts to see what connections they offer.

2. Review the history of organizations that already host cotillions. Read their mission statement and purpose. Look at any testimonials. Scrutinize their program for developing social graces as well as character among young people.

3. Find out if the program assists people wanting to start a cotillion. Ask about modeling their event. Request a list of references from others who use their concept. Contact some of the references and inquire about best practices.

4. Learn about the staff. Review their roles and tenure with the cotillion. Determine if staff takes a genuine interest in serving young people from various cultural and economic backgrounds.

5. Choose the cotillion to model. Register for any training the program provides. Inquire about refund or satisfaction guarantee policies. Embrace the opportunity to provide social graces, etiquette education and personal development skills to young people.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask about certified etiquette instructors when contacting organizations to assist with starting a cotillion. Certified instruction generally reflects a high quality program.