Our Vision
Welcome to The Art of Etiquette, where we believe that good manners are the foundation of meaningful connections. Founded by Suzy Johnson, a licensed consultant from The Emily Post Institute, our consultancy specializes in etiquette training for children, teens, and corporate environments.
At The Art of Etiquette, we focus on instilling essential social skills and manners at every developmental stage. From teaching toddlers basic courtesy to guiding teens in fostering respect, consideration, and honesty, our age-specific curriculum is designed for children and teenagers aged 3 to 18. We provide customized sessions for individuals and small groups, ensuring each participant receives personal attention and engaging, interactive learning experiences.
Our vision is a world where mutual respect, poise, and genuine connections define every interaction. We firmly believe that the transformative power of business etiquette and effective communication has a ripple effect, enhancing positivity, productivity, and professionalism in all aspects of life.
Join us in cultivating the art of etiquette and empowering the next generation to shine in every social setting.
My Story
Hi, my name is Suzy Johnson. With a passion for communication and a commitment to helping others, I bring a unique blend of experience to my work. With a PhD in Vocational Rehabilitation and Special Education, my career has taken me from the classroom to leadership roles. My journey includes teaching at Columbus State University, Virginia Commonwealth University, and serving as an adjunct professor at Samford University. As the Director of Special Services at Briarwood School, I worked to create supportive environments for students with diverse needs.
For the past six years, I’ve been dedicated to providing etiquette courses, drawing on my training and licensing from the renowned Emily Post Institute. I specialize in both children’s etiquette and business etiquette, aiming to equip individuals with the social skills they need to succeed.
I am married to Todd, and we have four wonderful children. Rooted in my Christian faith, I emphasize the importance of kindness, humility, and respect in all interactions. I see etiquette as a reflection of Christ-like behavior and strive to help others navigate the world of etiquette with confidence, fostering positive connections that honor God and those around us.
I believe that good manners and effective communication can open doors to enhance relationships, both socially and professionally, therefore creating positive connections. I look forward to sharing my knowledge and helping you navigate the world of etiquette with confidence!
Our Team
Stephanie Hoff has lived in Birmingham for the past 45 years and is a graduate of Vestavia Hills High School. She earned a Bachelors degree in Child Development from the University of Montevallo. After a fulfilling career in teaching and administrative work, Stephanie decided to become a stay-at-home mom to focus on raising her three boys alongside her husband, Stephen. She has remained active in her community, volunteering for various school functions, non-profit organizations, and church events. Stephanie also substitutes at a preschool and has been assisting Suzy with etiquette classes and dances for the past five years. Her diverse experience in education, child development, and community engagement has allowed her to contribute meaningfully in both personal and professional capacities.
JJ Butler, formerly of Birmingham, has recently moved back from NYC. He is a proud alumnus of the University of Alabama where he was awarded a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance, Musical Theater, and Computer Science. Stage credits include National Tour of Saturday Night Fever, ensemble/Tony Manero understudy, Gilded at BAM, and a member of Thistle Dance in NYC. Television credits include Saturday Night Live, America's Got Talent, Just Dance Shanghai, and SC7NARIO. Alongside performing, JJ is a passionate teacher and award winning choreographer. All glory to God, and much love to his beautiful wife, Lauren, and daughters, Lennon and Parker.
Claudia Butler is in her 32nd year of teaching ballet at Briarwood Ballet School and Dance South Studios. Her love for ballet began at the early age of 5 where she trained under Hungarian dance instructor Irene Elekes for 12 years. Several opportunities to travel to New York City with her teachers/mentors gave Claudia
the opportunity to further her dance education at Dance Masters of America conventions, taking classes at the American Ballet Theater as well as attending numerous dance workshops throughout the years. Claudia’s interests changed in college, but after several years of working as a nurse, Claudia returned to her love of ballet when Barbara Barker of Briarwood Ballet School invited her to join their teaching staff. A year later, Nena Maniscalso asked her to come on board at Dance South Studios. Claudia broadened her dance interests as she began working with musical theater groups such as NarrowWay Productions, Motowne Productions, and Briarwood High School’s theater department. Claudia also owns and operates Butler Studios where she teaches musical theater jazz, wedding dance choreography and beginner ballroom dancing with her husband, Raymond. Claudia gives all credit to God for all the many years He’s given her to use the gift of dance to honor and glorify Him.