Meet Laura
Meet Laura Akano, Leading British Etiquette Coach
Hello, I’m Laura Akano, Principal Coach and Trainer at Polished Manners. I teach modern etiquette and good manners to children, teenagers, adults and professionals in London and online. My approach is warm, practical, and rooted in kindness, so everyone I work with can feel confident and at ease in any social or professional situation.
How it all started
Teaching Good Manners to All Manner of People
Polished Manners was born from my belief that good manners and social etiquette can transform lives. A knowledge of etiquette gives young people and adults from any background a real advantage: it builds confidence, supports clear communication, and helps to foster respectful, positive relationships at home, at school, at work, and in wider society.
But there’s more to having good manners and etiquette, as Emily Post explains:
“Manners are a sensitive awareness of the feelings of others. If you have that awareness, you have good manners, no matter what fork you use.”
This quote has always resonated with me. After all, it is this awareness that, for me, underpins the importance and necessity of etiquette.
It’s also why I teach good manners to all manner of people today.
Laura has done a fantastic job!
The course is very organized and well prepared and with useful notes. The location is wonderful and sit in the centre of Kensington.
The real life practice for dining etiquette is in the same hotel. She also provided wonderful tips for my kid for his private school interview! Highly recommend!
Jenny Zhen
Google 5/5
My background
A Background in Style, People, & Children
I originally trained as a dress designer and fashion merchandiser. I then went on to build a career across corporate administration, customer service, and retail. These roles gave me a strong understanding of professional standards, presentation, and why first impressions really matter.
Later, I returned to education to study social sciences, and this is where my fascination with human interaction and communication blossomed. I wanted to understand why people behave the way they do, how they relate to one another, and how etiquette can support better connections.
My very first business, which I owned for 14 years, involved running after-school clubs and children’s activities. During this time, I gained several childcare qualifications and worked closely with children and families from many different backgrounds.
It was this experience, combined with my lifelong interest in etiquette, that inspired me to create Polished Manners and develop specialist children’s and youth etiquette programmes, alongside classes for adults and businesses.
My experience
My Professional Experience & Etiquette Qualifications
Today, I deliver etiquette training and social skills coaching to children, teenagers and adults through my courses, workshops, and afternoon tea events. I also provide private tuition for clients including high-net-worth families, expatriates, and visitors to the UK who want to understand British etiquette and culture.
I hold professional etiquette certifications from leading British and American institutions, including:
- The English Manner (UK)
- The Etiquette Survival Group (USA)
- The Social Skills Company (USA)
In each of my etiquette courses, I combine this formal training with my rich, varied life experience and background in childcare, communication, and customer-facing roles. This helps me to make etiquette relevant, approachable, and enjoyable for people of all ages.
Manners & Etiquette, Recognised By
My presence
A Trusted Etiquette Voice in the Global Media
As a recognised British etiquette expert, I have been invited to share my views on television and radio programmes, including BBC Two, Sky News, talkRADIO, and BBC Radio 5 Live.
I have also contributed to newspaper and magazine articles on manners, modern etiquette, and social behaviour. Publications I have featured in include The Telegraph, The Times, The Washington Post, and the London Evening Standard.
These opportunities have enabled me to promote good manners, kindness, and respect as foundations for modern life and good living.
Work with me
Work with a Leading British Etiquette Coach Today
Whether you are a parent, a professional, or an organisation, I should be delighted to support you. Contact me today to find out how my etiquette courses and bespoke programmes can help you or your child, whatever your interests, goals or challenges.
