I was born in the Czech Republic but found my true home in Alaska. Living here and traveling from Alaska to many other places has shown me how special our communities and relationships are in this wild, yet strategic corner of the world.

I grew up in a family where traditional etiquette was not part of our everyday life, but as children, we were expected to show good behavior every day. We were taught to be respectful, mindful, and kind, to greet people politely, to think of others first, and to represent our family well wherever we went. My grandmother showed us how to set a table, sit and eat politely, and enjoy meals together without old-fashioned rules, just with simple respect. Those early lessons helped me later at formal dinners and business meetings, and they opened doors in my life.

When our daughters were born, it became my turn to prepare them for life. My husband and I noticed that teaching manners did not come as naturally as it had for our parents, especially after the pandemic and in the age of phones and constant screens. I decided to study modern etiquette, graduate from the world’s leading finishing program, and create my own approach to teaching manners that is practical, warm, and fun. I discovered that modern etiquette is not about memorizing rigid rules for an entitled society; it is about seeing the world from the perspective of others and moving through everyday life with kindness and confidence.

Sky Ridge Manners exists to inspire kindness, respect, and consideration in every aspect of life and to leave a lasting legacy for our families and communities. Our mission is to raise awareness about manners and etiquette, motivate mindful and polite behavior, and strengthen families, workplaces, and neighborhoods.

We serve three main groups of people.

First, parents and educators who want engaging video lessons and tools to teach children manners at home, in school, at restaurants, and beyond.

Second, teenagers and adults who, like us, did not grow up with formal etiquette, but now need to feel comfortable in professional, social, and business settings.

And third, adults and families who are transitioning to or from Alaska and want guidance on how to show up well in a new culture, community, and environment.

Our courses cover why manners matter in the modern world, how to introduce yourself and greet others, how to communicate and hold a conversation, and how to understand body language. We teach dining skills, dress codes, and how to behave respectfully in person and online, including how to use phones politely in public and at the table.

Sky Ridge Manners is designed for Alaskans but can be applied anywhere, because good manners never go out of style.

We offer an adventurous, family-friendly way to learn etiquette so that children, teens, and adults can enjoy becoming more confident, considerate, and prepared for whatever comes next. Without an ambition to change who you are, but with the ambition to bring out the best in you, I invite you to join me and make manners a natural, enjoyable part of everyday life—for your family, your workplace, and your community.

Andrea | Sky Ridge Manners