My Story…

Dearest Reader,

The making of The Kind Kettle is very much fulfilling my promise to my children that we each have the ability within ourselves to create the world we wish to live in. I began my career as an elementary educator. I loved bringing lessons to life in my classroom through imagination, creativity, and the “love of silly“ which my mother taught me so well. I did just that for almost ten years teaching third and fourth grade. I physically left the classroom to stay at home with my four children fifteen years ago, but “the classroom” never really left me as my kids would attest, “Mommy School” was very much a part of our daily routine.

I also knew personally how difficult it was for me, especially my childhood years, teen years, and even into early adulthood to find my voice. I was fortunate as a child that my shy tendencies did not stop me from observing. Little did I know that all my hours sitting around my grandparent’s dinner table each Sunday, and the listening to small talk between adults, would teach me so much. The lessons learned from listening and watching their interactions built respect for others and myself. The “little things” they spoke of and the high expectations of my behaviors would prove over and over in my life to really be the “big things.” There is an art to learning how to participate in conversation and yes, some personalities tend to gravitate toward doing just that more easily, but I am also a firm believer that these skills can be taught and with practice , they can be mastered and enjoyed. Everyone has a place at the table and a voice to share a story and or idea and at The Kind Kettle it is my intent to equip each client with the skills and confidence to do so.

I am hopeful The Kind Kettle can also provide those seeking my services to see how the “little things” are indeed the “big things” and that etiquette is so much more than how to sit properly through a fancy dinner or a formal interview. Most importantly, etiquette is about how you make others feel. And that is exactly what my dream and promise is for The Kind Kettle.

I live with my wonderful husband and my beloved children. I look forward to Tea Time with you soon!

Sincerely,

Mrs. Nancy Stephens

(Founder and Owner of The Kind Kettle)