Alla Kesser Gross, founder of the Lluxxall School of Etiquette and Manners in San Diego, is a lifelong devotee of etiquette and manners education. From her early days in Ukraine, where she embarked on her journey in social graces at the age of three, to her formal training in Europe and the United States, Alla has dedicated her life to imparting the principles of decorum to children and teens. With a background in both Special and Regular Education and Music and Literature, along with her esteemed honors from etiquette schools, Alla is a respected authority in the field. As an honored graduate, former board member, and award recipient, she continues to make a positive impact through her advice column, speaking engagements, and this comprehensive handbook, shaping a generation of poised, self-assured, and well-mannered individuals poised for personal and professional success.
Author Q&A
What inspired you to write your first book?
Simply, it’s been my life-long dream to not only write a book but to see it in print, to feel the glossy pages, and feast my eyes on the charming illustrations. My inspiration stemmed from my pain and my personal struggle as a mother of teen-age boys, and my desire to help the next generation become refined and grateful citizens of our community.
How did you come up with the title?
You could say I “toyed” with the title, The Modern Teen’s Etiquette Playbook because kids are perpetually glued to the computer, more interested in “playing” than interacting socially. Speaking their language might be more inviting and enticing, and make them more apt to open the book. Then the vibrant and whimsical illustrations will pull them in and get the game started.
What are your current projects?
I currently have my fingers in many tasty pies including, operating and teaching classes to tots, teens, and adults at my fledgling Lluxxall School of Etiquette and Manners; marketing my recently launched book (The Modern Teen’s Etiquette Playbook) that’s a companion teaching tool for my school; actively partaking in the Rotary Club of Rancho Santa Fe; volunteering with various educational facilities; organizing assorted community events, and finally, writing my online teen advice column, “Ask Alla,” for the non-profit organization in San Diego.
What was the hardest part of writing your book?
I must say that addressing sensitive topics that even made me blush was the most difficult part. Teens are curious and want (and need) to know but are embarrassed to ask their parents, so I’m here to discuss these delicate subjects and prevent uncomfortable conversations. I’m glad to oblige.
Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?
Sure. The book is just a guide to help you navigate through social and professional settings. It is not scriptures or the Bible set in stone. We need to know the rules of etiquette first in order to adjust them to our own lifestyles and personalities. The take away–always be true to yourself, and believe in who you are, and your unique brand.
What is your favorite theme/genre to write about?
At this stage in my life, I’m in the groove of writing the self-help genre with a side order of family relations to improve the next generation and help repair the world.
How do you relax?
Meditation and chocolate!
What is your favorite positive saying?
Be true to your dreams – if you betray them, you betray yourself!
What is your favorite word, and why?
Hands down, my favorite word is “Binki,” the name of my precious Yorkshire terrier. She is my furry, four-legged soulmate and writing buddy who is always by my side doling out support, love, and literary inspiration.
How can readers discover more about you and you work?
Here I am. Have at it:
Website — www.LLUXXALL.com
Instagram — @lluxxall
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allakgross/
The Modern Teen’s Etiquette Playbook is available for purchase on Amazon – https://www.amazon.com/Modern-Teens-Etiquette-Playbook-Communication-ebook/dp/B0CP4KWP4Y
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