Refinement Society

Live Well " He has achieved success who has lived well, laughed often, and loved much." -Bessie Anderson Stanley Image Credit: Unsplash  by Amelia Bartlette Work, Family, Friends, and Self Ask yourself now, when was the last time you achieved and enjoyed something at work? What about achieved and enjoyed with your family; your friends? And recently have you achieved and enjoyed something just for you? In the era of digital evolution and escalation of information overload through various social media channels, we are constantly bombarded with news, images, ideas, and opinions. Social distancing as a result of the global pandemic has heightened initiatives by media houses and brands with ongoing marketing and promotional information that our boxes are loaded with. Though most of us are working from home currently, it is not uncommon for us to often be required to multi-task as we juggle the needs of our private life, family, and work. Taking time out to relax and regroup o

"Etiquette must, if it is to be of more than trifling use, include ethics as well as manners." - Emily Post  1922 Best-Selling Book 'Etiquette' Image Credit: Unsplash   Since young, from the appropriate conversation, to how to handle conflict situations and others with restraint and civility, to how to behave at the dining table became the roadmap to my etiquette practices and interaction with people.  Growing up in a small town, I first learn about manners watching my parents behave, how they treat others, neighbours, friends, and people in the marketplace.  Since my growing up years, together with my other siblings, we were taught to take others into consideration or think about others before ourselves. We learned not to impose on others and we were taught not to make comments or give opinions unless invited to.  Have You ever met someone you thought was more elegant and poise than most people? Do you wonder what that person's secret is? You may be surprised b

There are several sophisticated and fun ways to wear your brooches. The brooch, when strategically placed anywhere on your outfits, is one of the most practical/versatile, and effective ways to spice up and project your personality. As an Image Consultant and Wardrobe Stylist, when consulted by my clients, this is one piece of accessory that I would emphasize to them that a brooch, when style right, is the ultimate magic final touch and will make them stand out for sure. Every woman should have several brooches to go with different looks, but in any case, at least one for the formal dress and one for smart-casual wear.  Image Credit: Pinterest Brooches are traditionally defined as an ornament fastened to clothing with a hinged pin and catch. Throughout history, brooches have had the special ability to reflect both timely fashion trends and deeper meaning of cultural influences. Over the years of living abroad and traveling to different countries, I had the opportunity to explore the

"Life is fragile. We're not guaranteed a tomorrow so give it everything you've got." -Tim Cook, CEO of Apple At times of the current global economic challenges, it is more urgent and crucial than ever before, that company leaders leverage their Corporate Image and Branding as a distinctive competitive edge. It is time for a change. CEOs and leaders need a new attitude and mindset to meet the new normal employees and consumers. A chief executive officer's (CEO)'s behaviour and reputation can make or break the Company's brand's image. According to a survey conducted by the global Strategic Reputation agency, Weber and Shandwick, a chief executive officer's (CEO) reputation is a fundamental driver of corporate reputation. On what key qualities or attributes would drive a strong CEO reputation, the survey found that highly respected and esteemed CEOs, relative to those lesser respected, ha