Alison M. Cheperdak Bios LinkedIn Alison M. Cheperdak, J.D. is a bestselling author, internationally certified etiquette coach, and the founder of Elevate Etiquette. She is also an attorney and entrepreneur whose career has included television journalism, law, and public service. She is the author of *Was It Something I Said?: Everyday Etiquette to Avoid Awkward Moments in Relationships, Work, and Life* (HarperCollins, 2026). Through private coaching and group seminars, Alison works with individuals and organizations on professional presence, communication, and modern etiquette, from first impressions to high-stakes interactions. She has taught at Harvard Law School, the U.S. Congress, and the White House, and partners with universities and employers of all sizes. Her work has been featured in *The Wall Street Journal*, *Vogue*, *The Washington Post*, *ABC News*, *Today*, *Fox News*, *Fox Business*, *Southern Living*, *New York Post*, *Brides*, *Evie Magazine*, *Better Homes & Gardens*, and *Daily Mail*, among others. She reaches millions each month through her daily etiquette content and writes a weekly *Ask Alison* column for *Evie Magazine*. Alison is certified by The English Manner and Beaumont Etiquette (Train the Trainer, Grades One and Two). She graduated magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa from Villanova University and earned her Juris Doctor from The George Washington University Law School. Before founding Elevate Etiquette, Alison worked as a television reporter and anchor for an NBC affiliate in New York, practiced commercial litigation at a large D.C. law firm, and served across all three branches of the federal government, including in the West Wing of the White House. She later held a senior leadership role at a national nonprofit. She believes etiquette isn't about perfection or pretension. It's about the small choices that shape how others feel in your presence. *Was It Something I Said?* is available wherever books are sold. To inquire about speaking or coaching, visit elevateetiquette.com. For daily etiquette tips, follow @elevateetiquette and subscribe to *The Elevate Edit* on Substack. Website About Page It started with a question. Actually, lots of questions. At twenty-two, newly engaged and trying to navigate the small but real decisions that come with planning a wedding, Alison M. Cheperdak picked up an etiquette book. What began as a search for answers became something more: a lasting appreciation for how thoughtful behavior quietly changes everything. Today, Alison is a bestselling author, internationally certified etiquette coach, and the founder of Elevate Etiquette. She is also an attorney and entrepreneur whose career has included television journalism, law, and public service, including roles across all three branches of the federal government. She is the author of *Was It Something I Said?: Everyday Etiquette to Avoid Awkward Moments in Relationships, Work, and Life* (HarperCollins, 2026). Alison works with individuals and organizations through private coaching and seminars, covering everything from professional presence and communication to dining etiquette and international protocol. She has taught at Harvard Law School, the U.S. Congress, and the White House, and her work has been featured in *The Wall Street Journal*, *Vogue*, *The Washington Post*, *Today*, and *Southern Living*. Long before etiquette became her profession, it was already shaping how she showed up. Years of competitive ice dancing gave her a sense of poise, discipline, and composure under pressure, skills that later became foundational to her work. Her career has spanned several worlds. Alison began as a television reporter and anchor for an NBC affiliate in New York before earning her law degree from The George Washington University Law School. She went on to serve across all three branches of the federal government, including in the West Wing, later practicing commercial litigation at a large D.C. law firm and holding a senior leadership role at a national nonprofit. A magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Villanova University, she also holds formal etiquette certifications from The English Manner and Beaumont Etiquette. Today, Alison reaches millions each month through her content, where she shares practical, modern guidance on handling life's everyday moments well. She writes a weekly *Ask Alison* column for *Evie Magazine* and publishes *The Elevate Edit* on Substack, a more personal space for readers who want to bring real thoughtfulness into their daily lives. Alison lives in Georgetown in Washington, D.C., with her husband, Jason. She loves thoughtful hosting, beautiful details, and a well-set table, but believes, above all, that etiquette isn't about perfection. It's about the small choices that quietly shape how others feel in your presence. Substack ### A little more about me, and what informs my approach I'm Alison Cheperdak, a bestselling author, internationally certified etiquette coach, and the founder of Elevate Etiquette. I'm also an attorney, entrepreneur, and content creator, and a lifelong believer that good manners make life lovelier. I grew up in a home where respect, kindness, and table manners were expected, but I never attended cotillion or formal etiquette classes as a child. My interest in etiquette in a traditional sense began when I was twenty-two, newly engaged, and suddenly full of questions. *Why is it recommended that mothers don't host their daughters' showers? How do you address an invitation to a same-sex couple? Is it rude not to follow certain traditions? (Looking at you, garter toss and cake cutting!) And how do you tell someone their children aren't invited without making things awkward?* My mom suggested I turn to an etiquette book, and I'm so glad I did. I read that first book cover to cover, then another, and another. What began as a way to navigate wedding planning became something I couldn't put down. Over time, I studied etiquette, executive presence, social graces, and protocol simply because I loved it. For a long time, this was something I kept to myself. I never wanted anyone to feel judged or uncomfortable knowing they were sitting across from someone who could spot the difference between an oyster fork and a strawberry fork. At the same time, I was building a career that, in many ways, paralleled what etiquette teaches. I worked as a television reporter and anchor for an NBC affiliate in New York, earned my law degree from The George Washington University Law School, and went on to serve across all three branches of the federal government, including in the West Wing of the White House. I later practiced commercial litigation at a large D.C. law firm and served in senior leadership at a national nonprofit. Still, I didn't initially see etiquette as a business. It was a subject I couldn't stop learning about. Eventually, I enrolled in formal training in both British and North American etiquette, graduating with merit from The English Manner and Beaumont Etiquette's Train the Trainer programmes. It was a dear friend of mine, Arianne, who encouraged me to share what I had learned in a way that felt kind, modern, and encouraging rather than rigid or judgmental. So I did. I began sharing small, practical etiquette tips online, and what started as something simple grew quickly into something much bigger. Today, I'm grateful to connect with millions across social media, to teach seminars at places like Harvard Law School, the U.S. Congress, and the White House, and to be featured in *The Washington Post*, *The Wall Street Journal*, *Fox News*, *Fox Business*, *ABC News*, *Southern Living*, *Vogue*, *Martha Stewart*, *Better Homes & Gardens*, and *Daily Mail*. But more than anything, I'm grateful for you. This thoughtful, curious, and kind community that believes, as I do, that etiquette isn't outdated. It's how we take care of each other. Every question you ask, every comment you leave, every conversation we have reminds me that good manners aren't about perfection. They're about the small choices that shape how others feel in your presence. Goodreads \\Alison Cheperdak\ is a bestselling author, internationally certified etiquette coach, and the founder of Elevate Etiquette. She is also an attorney and entrepreneur whose career has included television journalism, law, and public service.\ \She is the author of \Was It Something I Said?: Everyday Etiquette to Avoid Awkward Moments in Relationships, Work, and Life\ (HarperCollins, 2026).\ \Through private coaching and group seminars, Alison works with individuals and organizations on professional presence, communication, and modern etiquette, from first impressions to high-stakes interactions. She has taught at Harvard Law School, the U.S. Congress, and the White House.\ \Her work has been featured in \The Wall Street Journal\, \Vogue\, \The Washington Post\, \Today\, \Fox News\, \Southern Living\, and more, and she reaches millions each month through her daily etiquette content.\ \Alison's interest in etiquette began at twenty-two, when she was newly engaged and full of questions about how to navigate the many small but real decisions around weddings, relationships, and social expectations. That curiosity became a lifelong study of etiquette, executive presence, and how thoughtful behavior quietly changes everything.\ \Her work comes down to a simple belief: etiquette isn't about perfection. It's about the small choices that shape how others feel in your presence.\ \Learn more at \elevateetiquette.com\\ Amazon Author Bio Alison Cheperdak is a bestselling author, internationally certified etiquette coach, and the founder of Elevate Etiquette. She is also an attorney and entrepreneur whose career has included television journalism, law, and public service. She is the author of *Was It Something I Said?: Everyday Etiquette to Avoid Awkward Moments in Relationships, Work, and Life* (HarperCollins, 2026). Through private coaching and group seminars, Alison works with individuals and organizations on professional presence, communication, and modern etiquette, from first impressions to high-stakes interactions. She has taught at Harvard Law School, the U.S. Congress, and the White House. Her work has been featured in *The Wall Street Journal*, *Vogue*, *The Washington Post*, *Today*, *Fox News*, *Fox Business*, *Southern Living*, *New York Post*, *Brides*, *Evie Magazine*, *Better Homes & Gardens*, and *Daily Mail*, among others. Alison's interest in etiquette began at twenty-two, when she was newly engaged and full of questions about how to navigate the small but real moments that shape relationships, work, and everyday life. That curiosity became a lifelong study of etiquette, executive presence, and how thoughtful behavior quietly changes everything. Her work comes down to a simple belief: etiquette isn't about perfection. It's about the small choices that shape how others feel in your presence. Evie Magazine Alison M. Cheperdak, J.D., is a bestselling author, internationally certified etiquette coach, and the founder of Elevate Etiquette. She is also an attorney and entrepreneur whose career has included television journalism, law, and public service, including service in the West Wing of the White House. She is the author of *Was It Something I Said? Everyday Etiquette to Avoid Awkward Moments in Relationships, Work, and Life* (HarperCollins, 2026). Alison teaches modern manners in a way that feels both gracious and grounded. Whether she's writing, hosting friends for dinner, exploring new cultures, or renovating a historic Georgetown home with her husband, she brings a real-life approach to etiquette that makes sense for modern women. IG/Threads/TikTok Bestselling Author & Etiquette Coach Modern Manners for Relationships, Work, & Life Was it Something I Said? Washington, DC YouTube Alison Cheperdak is a bestselling author, internationally certified etiquette coach, and the founder of Elevate Etiquette. She is also an attorney and entrepreneur whose career has included television journalism, law, and public service, including service in the West Wing of the White House. She is the author of *Was It Something I Said? Everyday Etiquette to Avoid Awkward Moments in Relationships, Work, and Life* (HarperCollins, 2026). On this channel, Alison shares practical, modern etiquette for relationships, work, and everyday life: what to say in awkward situations, how to show up with confidence in any room, and the small things that change how people perceive you. Her work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Vogue, The Washington Post, Today, Fox News, Fox Business, and Southern Living, and she reaches millions each month through her content. Subscribe for real-life guidance on modern manners, communication, and social confidence. Google Business Description Elevate Etiquette is a Washington, D.C.-based consultancy offering modern etiquette coaching, corporate training, and speaking engagements. We help individuals and organizations navigate professional and social settings with confidence. Founded by bestselling author and internationally certified etiquette coach Alison Cheperdak, Elevate Etiquette covers communication, executive presence, business and dining etiquette, international protocol, and everyday social interactions. Services include private coaching, group workshops, and customized trainings, both virtual and in person. Alison works with clients across the country and travels for speaking engagements, corporate trainings, and private coaching. Whether you're preparing for a high-stakes meeting, refining how you come across professionally, or navigating a complicated social situation, you'll walk away with practical tools you can use right away. Website Homepage # Full homepage copy --- ## Hero section **What do you say when a moment catches you off guard?** At a dinner. In a meeting. When you're not quite sure what's expected. Modern etiquette isn't about perfection. It's about knowing what to do, what to say, and how to put others at ease. **I help you navigate those moments with confidence.** **[Work With Alison]** --- ## Subhead (optional) From first impressions to high-stakes conversations, you'll learn how to show up with confidence, without overthinking every move. --- ## Meet Alison **Meet Alison M. Cheperdak, J.D.** Bestselling author, internationally certified etiquette coach, and founder of Elevate Etiquette. I've spent my career in rooms where presence matters: newsrooms, courtrooms, and the West Wing of the White House. Today, I help individuals and organizations feel just as confident walking into theirs. Whether you're preparing for a big meeting, navigating a complicated social situation, or simply want to feel more at ease in everyday interactions, my approach to etiquette is practical, modern, and grounded in real life. **[About Me]** --- ## As seen in *The Wall Street Journal* | *Vogue* | *The Washington Post* | *Today* | *Fox News* | *Fox Business* | *Southern Living* --- ## Core value section Etiquette shows up in the moments that matter most: the introduction, the handshake, the seat at the table, the question you didn't expect. It's not about memorizing rules. It's about knowing how to respond with thoughtfulness. --- ## Services **How I can help** --- ### 1. One-on-one and group coaching Private coaching for real-life situations, from work to social settings, so you know exactly what to say and do. --- ### 2. Dining etiquette Feel confident at any table, whether it's a business dinner or a special occasion, so you can focus on connection, not confusion. --- ### 3. Corporate trainings Give your team the tools to communicate clearly, show respect, and represent your organization with professionalism. --- ### 4. Executive presence Learn how to carry yourself, communicate, and lead in a way that earns trust and commands attention, without feeling inauthentic. --- ### 5. International protocol Navigate cross-cultural settings with confidence, understanding the nuances that matter in both business and social environments. --- ### 6. Image and personal branding Make a strong first impression with a personal presence that feels polished, authentic, and aligned with who you are. --- ### 7. Keynote speaking Engaging talks on modern etiquette, communication, and presence, designed to leave your audience with takeaways they'll actually use. --- ### 8. Hospitality training Equip your staff with the kind of attention to detail and warmth that turns good service into a memorable guest experience. --- ## Social proof The people we remember aren't the loudest in the room. They're the ones who make others feel comfortable, respected, and genuinely seen. --- ## Newsletter section Practical etiquette advice you can use this week, at work, at dinner, and everywhere in between. Join The Elevate Edit. **[Subscribe]** --- ## Footer For inquiries, coaching, or speaking engagements: **[Send My Inquiry]** You'll hear back within 24-48 hours. Website Coaching Page ## Hero section **You're capable. You're accomplished.** **But you don't always feel like you command the room.** In the moments that matter most, a meeting, a dinner, an introduction, you find yourself second-guessing what to say or how to carry yourself. Not because you aren't capable. But because no one ever taught you how to navigate these situations well. That's where I come in. --- ## Intro section Coaching with Elevate Etiquette helps you move through professional and social settings with quiet confidence, so you know exactly what to do, what to say, and how to show up. This is not about memorizing rules. It's about developing a presence that feels natural, polished, and entirely your own. --- ## What this work is really about The work we do together is often about the moments that are hardest to name: - You're in a room full of impressive people and don't feel like you belong - You're speaking, but not quite being heard - You're navigating high-level dinners, meetings, or introductions and second-guessing yourself - You're successful on paper, but don't feel as confident as you'd like We refine how you show up in those moments, so you don't have to think about it anymore. --- ## What makes this different There are many people who teach etiquette. Few have actually operated in the kinds of environments where presence matters most. I've worked in high-pressure settings, from newsrooms to courtrooms to the Oval Office, where how you communicate and carry yourself changes how you're perceived. My approach is: - highly personalized - grounded in real-world experience - calm, direct, and supportive You won't feel judged. You'll feel understood, and equipped. --- ## What coaching looks like Private coaching is conversational, tailored, and practical. Some sessions feel like: - walking through specific situations you're navigating right now - refining how you communicate in real time - preparing for an upcoming event, meeting, or transition Other times, we: - role-play key moments - adjust language, tone, and delivery - build a stronger sense of presence step by step You leave each session knowing exactly what to do, and how to do it. --- ## Before and after Before working together, clients often feel: - unsure in high-level settings - hesitant to speak up - aware something is "off," but unsure how to fix it After working together, they feel: - confident being themselves in any room - clear in how they communicate - at ease in situations that once felt intimidating ## Areas we may cover together Your coaching experience is tailored to you, but often includes: - Executive presence and communication - Business and workplace etiquette - Dining etiquette and professional entertaining - Social and wedding etiquette - International protocol and cross-cultural communication - Personal presence, image, and first impressions --- ## Coaching options ### Private one-on-one coaching Personalized coaching designed around your specific goals, challenges, and opportunities. Available virtually and in person. **[Inquire]** --- ### Group coaching and workshops For organizations, teams, and groups looking to strengthen communication, presence, and modern etiquette in a shared setting. **[Inquire]** --- ### Corporate trainings Customized trainings for organizations looking to raise the bar on professionalism, communication, and client experience. **[Inquire]** --- ## Additional offerings For clients who want more focused or situation-specific support, I also offer: - Dining etiquette intensives - Wedding etiquette guidance - Image and personal branding consultations - Social media audits - Hospitality training --- ## Who this is for This work is best suited for professionals who are already accomplished and want to refine how they show up. Clients often work in: - law - finance - consulting - public policy - diplomacy - hospitality - sales - development Or are in environments where presence, communication, and perception matter. --- ## Frequently asked questions **Is this a good fit if I'm a beginner?** Yes. Many clients come in feeling unsure or out of practice. We meet you where you are. **Are sessions customized?** Completely. Every session is tailored to your goals, challenges, and real-life situations. **Do you offer virtual sessions?** Yes. Coaching is available both virtually and in person. **How do I know if this is right for me?** If you've ever felt capable but not fully confident in how you come across, this work is for you. --- ## Final call to action If this is something you've been thinking about, even quietly, it's worth exploring. **[Send My Inquiry]** You'll hear back within 24-48 hours. --- ## Newsletter Practical etiquette advice you can use this week, at work, at dinner, and everywhere in between. Join The Elevate Edit. Speaking Page More than inspiration. Practical guidance your audience will actually use. *Delivered with clarity, warmth, and real-world experience.* From boardrooms to classrooms to formal dinners, how people communicate and carry themselves shapes how they're perceived. Alison Cheperdak delivers practical, high-impact guidance your audience can apply immediately, in their work, their relationships, and the situations where it matters most. Alison M. Cheperdak, J.D., is a bestselling author, internationally certified etiquette coach, and the founder of Elevate Etiquette. She is also an attorney and entrepreneur whose career has included television journalism, law, and public service, including service in the West Wing of the White House. She brings a rare combination of real-world experience and modern perspective, helping audiences understand not just what to do, but how to do it with confidence. **What makes these talks different** Many talks are inspiring in the moment. Few leave people knowing exactly what to do next. Alison's presentations are designed with a clear goal: to change how your audience communicates, carries themselves, and is perceived. Her approach is: * grounded in real-world, high-pressure experience * tailored to your audience and objectives * engaging without feeling performative * immediately applicable in professional and social settings Whether she's speaking to interns, executives, or leadership teams, Alison meets people where they are. ### Who Alison speaks to Alison works with organizations and institutions where how people communicate, carry themselves, and represent their work matters. Her audiences often include: * corporate teams and leadership groups * undergraduate universities and graduate schools * interns and early-career professionals * professional organizations and associations * nonprofit and civic groups She is frequently invited to speak to audiences in high-performance environments, where presence, communication, and perception play a real role in long-term success. Her work resonates with audiences who are already capable and want to be perceived that way. ### Signature topics Each presentation is tailored to your audience, but Alison's work often centers on the moments that shape how we are perceived, at work, in social settings, and everywhere in between. --- ### Executive presence and communication How to speak, carry yourself, and contribute in a way that earns trust, commands attention, and reflects your capabilities. --- ### Modern etiquette for work and life The unspoken expectations that shape professional and social interactions, from meetings and networking to everyday communication. --- ### Dining etiquette and professional entertaining How to navigate business meals, formal dinners, and social settings with confidence. --- ### Personal branding and first impressions What people notice immediately, and how to make sure it aligns with who you are and where you're going. --- ### Public speaking and media training How to communicate clearly and confidently in high-visibility situations, from panels to presentations to media appearances. --- ### Diplomacy and cross-cultural communication How to navigate diverse environments with awareness, respect, and confidence in both business and social contexts. Topics may be customized or combined to meet your organization's specific goals. TESTIMONIALS Copy all current testimonials ### Bring Alison to your organization If you're looking for a speaker who will leave your audience more confident, more polished, and better equipped to represent themselves and your organization, this is a conversation worth having. **[Book Alison]** You'll hear back within 24-48 hours with next steps and availability. Speaking and Press Contact Page # Recommended structure ## Page layout ### 1. Speaking inquiry (primary, top) ### 2. Media and press inquiries (secondary, below or separate page) --- # Section 1: Speaking inquiry ## Intro copy (above form) ### Speaking inquiries Thank you for your interest in bringing Alison to your organization. To make sure each engagement is well-prepared and tailored to your audience, please share a few details below. You'll hear back within 24-48 hours with next steps and availability. --- ## Form fields ### Required fields: * Full Name * Organization / Company * Email Address * Phone Number --- ### Event details: * Type of Event (Dropdown: Keynote, Training, Workshop, Panel, Other) * Event Date (or estimated timeframe) * Location (City + "Virtual or In-Person" toggle) * Estimated Audience Size --- ### Strategic questions (this is where you stand out) * Tell us about your audience *(Who will be attending? Roles, experience level, etc.)* * What are your goals for this event? *(What would make this a success?)* * Which topics are of interest? *(Optional, open text or multi-select)* --- ### Budget (important, keep this) * Estimated Budget Range for This Engagement $5,000-$10,000 * $10,000-$20,000 * $20,000-$35,000 * Not sure yet --- ### Final field: * Anything else we should know? --- ## Submit button Instead of "Submit": **[Request Availability]** --- # Section 2: Media and press ## Copy ### Media and press inquiries For interview requests, podcast appearances, media features, or editorial opportunities, please reach out below. Alison is available to speak on topics including modern etiquette, executive presence, workplace communication, and navigating social dynamics. --- ## Keep this form much simpler: * Name * Outlet / Platform * Email * Deadline * Brief description of request --- ## CTA button **[Submit Media Inquiry]** Speaking inquiry auto-response **Subject: Alison Cheperdak Speaking Inquiry** Hi [First Name], Thank you for reaching out about bringing Alison to your organization. We've received your inquiry and will review the details to make sure the engagement is the right fit and aligned with your goals. You can expect a response within 24-48 hours with next steps and availability. If there's anything you'd like to add in the meantime, feel free to reply directly to this email. We look forward to learning more about your event. Warm regards, The Elevate Etiquette Team Media inquiry auto-response Subject: Media Inquiry Received Hi [First Name], Thank you for your message. We've received your media inquiry for Alison Cheperdak/Elevate Etiquette and will review the details shortly. You can expect a response within 24 hours or sooner if you shared a sooner deadline. If there's anything you'd like to add in the meantime, feel free to reply directly to this email. Warmly, The Elevate Etiquette Team # Book page hero section **Own the room. Every time.** A modern etiquette guide for navigating the moments that matter, with clarity and confidence. **A bestselling guide to modern etiquette, now available in print, ebook, and audiobook, read by Alison.** **[Buy the Book]** ## About the book Whether you're meeting someone new, navigating a delicate conversation, or simply want to feel more confident in how you come across, *Was It Something I Said?* offers practical, real-world guidance you'll actually use. This is not about rigid rules or outdated expectations. It's about knowing what to say, how to say it, and how to move through everyday interactions with clarity. Inside, you'll find guidance on the moments that shape how you're perceived, from first impressions and workplace dynamics to friendships, family, and social situations. The result is a kind of confidence that feels natural, grounded, and entirely your own. ## What you'll find inside A practical, modern approach to the everyday moments that shape how you're perceived, at work, in your relationships, and everywhere in between. Inside, you'll find guidance on: * **First impressions and introductions** How to enter a room, greet others, and set the tone from the very first moment * **Workplace communication and professional presence** Navigating meetings, emails, and conversations with clarity * **The art of conversation** What to say, what to avoid, and how to keep interactions flowing naturally * **Friendships, family, and social dynamics** Handling sensitive situations with thoughtfulness * **Dining etiquette and entertaining** Feeling confident at the table, whether in a professional or social setting * **Modern manners for everyday life** The small, often overlooked details that make a lasting impression Upcoming Events ## Past events The launch of *Was It Something I Said?* included a series of events across the country, from intimate conversations to book signings and special gatherings. Recent appearances included: * New York City (LoveShackFancy) * Boston (M.M.LaFleur) * Washington, D.C. (Junior League, M.M.LaFleur) * Palm Beach (LoveShackFancy) * Nashville (LoveShackFancy) * Richmond (Fountain Bookstore) * Greenwich (LoveShackFancy) * Portsmouth (Wentworth by the Sea) Each event brought together readers, clients, and new faces for real conversations about modern etiquette, communication, and how we show up in the moments that matter. Thank you to everyone who joined! If you've enjoyed the book If *Was It Something I Said?* resonated with you, leaving a review, wherever you purchased your copy or on Goodreads, is one of the most meaningful ways to support the book. Reviews help more readers discover it. Thank you. **[Leave a Review]**