Pretty As A Picture: a course in Manners, Poise and Style for young ladies

Maria Everding saw the need for a program where young ladies could develop poise and confidence during their formative years. The Pretty As A Picture course was carefully designed to address a wide range of topics and situations in an enjoyable classroom setting.

In September 1982, the first Pretty As A Picture session was offered at Saks Fifth Avenue in Saint Louis, Missouri. There were 37 students in three classes. One year later, there were 210 students in seven classes. Since that time thousands of young women have taken the Pretty As A Picture course throughout the United States and Mexico.

An etiquette course for teens as well as manners for young men were soon added to the children's etiquette programs created and developed by Maria Everding. Certification to teach these courses was given through The Etiquette Institute.

After 22 years of teaching children and the Pretty As A Picture course reaching nationwide prominence, Maria Everding sold the children's portion of her business. However, training and certification to teach children and teens is still given through The Etiquette Institute. Children's manners programs are more popular now than ever before.