FAQs – Finishing School – Belles
BELLES | Grades 5-7
Candidate Selection & Enrollment
Candidates are selected through a thoughtful review of academic performance, extracurricular engagement, and community involvement. Applications are considered on a rolling basis through August 31, 2025, with responses provided within three business days of submission. Upon acceptance, families will have seven days to confirm enrollment.
All applicants complete a formal consideration process to ensure that each cohort reflects a diverse group of young ladies with varied interests and backgrounds. This thoughtful composition fosters meaningful dialogue, cross-cultural awareness, and peer learning throughout the season.
Program Tuition & Seasonal Enrollment
Tuition for the 2025–2026 Belles season is 3250 USD. Families may choose to pay in full or follow the installment schedule below:
812.50 USD | Within 7 days of acceptance
812.50 USD | September 15, 2025
812.50 USD | November 15, 2025
812.50 USD | January 15, 2026
What Tuition Includes
Tuition includes all instruction, curated cultural excursions, theatre performances, museum admissions, formal dining experiences, seasonal celebrations, the Holiday Afternoon Tea, and the Finale Tea graduation ticket for the student.
Monthly gatherings take place at the Historic Morrison-Clark Inn, where each session concludes with a formal three-course Sunday dinner. These settings offer a gracious environment in which students develop mastery in fine dining etiquette, engaging conversation, and timeless social skills. Dietary restrictions are thoughtfully accommodated.
Program Structure & Seasonal Rhythm
The Belles program begins with a foundational full-day training on Sunday, October 5, 2025. Monthly two-hour sessions are held on the first Sunday of each month from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Each lesson concludes with a formal dinner and may include assignments in preparation for future gatherings.
Throughout the season, participants attend a thoughtfully curated cultural outings across the D.C. metropolitan area, including performances at Alvin Ailey, exhibits at Hillwood Estate, and theatrical productions at Arena Stage, among others.
Gathering Locations & Format
All monthly sessions are held at the Historic Morrison-Clark Inn, located at 11th & L Streets NW, Washington, D.C. Supplemental outings and workshops take place at distinguished venues across the D.C. metropolitan area.
Seasonal Calendar
A preliminary calendar is now available: BELLES CALENDAR. Dates are subject to adjustment. A finalized calendar will be distributed prior to the Welcome Reception.
Instruction & Mentorship
Sessions are led by etiquette expert Crystal L. Bailey, a member of the Cercle International des Experts en Etiquette et Protocole and recipient of the Excellence in Service Award from AD Excellence. Her training includes Debrett’s London, Institut Villa Pierrefeu of Switzerland, and Etiquette à la Française. She is also a certified image consultant through the London Image Institute.
Known for her fresh and relatable approach to traditional etiquette, Ms. Bailey is a trusted advisor to Fortune 500 companies and has been featured by CNN, BBC, and French Television.
Students also benefit from guest-led masterclasses in public speaking, leadership, grooming, image consulting, hand lettering, and floral design presented by accomplished artists and professionals.
Chéries vs. Belles
To best serve girls at various stages of development, the Finishing School offers two distinct tiers:
Chéries – Grades 2–4
Belles – Grades 5–7
While both tracks share a commitment to excellence and character development, the Chéries experience focuses on foundational social graces and does not include cultural outings. The Belles curriculum expands to include curated excursions and deeper leadership training. Tuition reflects the scope of each program.
Sibling Discount
A sibling tuition discount is available. Please inquire directly with Ms. Bailey for details.
Parent Participation
While the program is designed to nurture independence, special opportunities are provided for parents to observe or participate in select events throughout the season.
Program Legacy
Now entering its 10th season, The Etiquette Institute of Washington’s Finishing School has become a hallmark experience for families who value refinement, character, and quiet confidence.
Originally launched on the campus of St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School, the program found its home at the Historic Morrison-Clark Inn, where the ambiance and tradition mirror the elegance of the experience.
Many graduates return for refresher courses or continue on to leadership roles within the Institute’s broader community. The values imparted extend well beyond the season, leaving a lasting impression of grace and presence.
Additional Questions?
Contact us by email or phone.
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