Mariel Llano is an expert in international etiquette, protocol, and holistic well-being, with training from renowned institutions around the world. Her unique methodology for teaching etiquette combines formal etiquette education with wellness and social awareness, helping individuals develop confidence, presence, and ease in both personal and professional settings.
She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from New York University (NYU) and a Master’s degree from IE University in Spain, along with culinary training as a chef in Paris. She has also completed specialized training in etiquette, cross-cultural customs, and international protocol.
Her international certifications include:
In addition to her professional work, Mariel holds a Black Belt in Karate Do, which remains one of her favorite ways to stay active. Drawing on her diverse background, she has crafted a thoughtful educational approach that extends beyond traditional etiquette—emphasizing self-confidence, well-being, and practical success in everyday life.
Mariel founded Mindful Manners after college during the pandemic, witnessing firsthand how young people struggled to connect. With screens replacing classrooms, genuine communication was diminishing, leading to increased isolation, bullying, and disconnection. In today’s socially and emotionally divided world, etiquette—when taught as cultural awareness and a tool for authentic communication—becomes a powerful way to foster confidence, and connection.
Mindful Manners was created to address this need. We believe in teaching empathy, kindness, and emotional intelligence through modern etiquette, helping especially children and young adults build confidence, navigate conflict gracefully, and form meaningful relationships.
I started Mindful Manners after college, during the pandemic, when I saw how much young people were struggling with connection. Screens had replaced classrooms, and real communication was being lost. Isolation, bullying, and disconnection were growing—and so was the need for something different. Today, the world feels more divided than ever—socially, culturally, and emotionally. In this environment, etiquette, when taught as cultural awareness and a tool for mental well-being, can be one of the most powerful ways to help people feel grounded, confident, and connected.
Mindful Manners was created to help fill that gap. We teach the power of empathy, kindness, and emotional intelligence through modern etiquette. Our goal is simple: to help people—especially children and young adults—build confidence, resolve conflict with grace, and form meaningful relationships.