The Nest at The Willard
A Historic Setting for Elegance
Step into the refined atmosphere of The Nest, an intimate space within The Willard that has welcomed distinguished guests for more than a century. With its graceful design and quiet sophistication, The Nest provides the perfect setting for an afternoon dedicated to etiquette, poise, and timeless tradition.
This elegant environment sets the tone for a thoughtful and memorable afternoon tea experience.
Afternoon Tea Instructor
Introducing Karene A. Putney
Founder of Etiquette Etiquette® and Certified Etiquette Consultant
Experience the elegance of afternoon tea under the guidance of Karene A. Putney, whose approach blends timeless tradition with modern etiquette.
Set within the historic Willard Hotel in Washington, D.C., this intimate tea experience invites guests to slow down, dress with intention, and enjoy the art of gracious living in an atmosphere of refinement.
Karene A. Putney is a certified business etiquette consultant with expertise in intercultural etiquette and protocol. She is also a personal development coach and a graduate of the National Speakers Association–DC Speaker Academy.
Karene looks forward to welcoming you and sharing the principles of poise, confidence, and thoughtful etiquette in this distinctive setting.
Participants will Experience The Distinct Value of Etiquette Etiquette's Afternoon Tea Class at The Willard
Elevate your afternoon with an intimate tea experience designed to cultivate poise, presence, and timeless etiquette, set within the historic elegance of The Willard.
Unveiling the Art of Afternoon Tea
Guests will be guided through the traditions and refined practices that define a proper afternoon tea experience, including:
- The history and traditions of afternoon tea
- Napkin etiquette and graceful table manners
- Proper handling of the teacup and saucer
- Polite tea conversation and common etiquette considerations
- Poise, posture, and handling moments with composure
What your Afternoon Tea Course includes
- Approximately three hours of guided instruction
- Instruction led by a certified etiquette trainer
- Table etiquette guidance throughout the experience
- Traditional afternoon tea service at The Willard, including assorted scones, sandwiches, sweet treats, and unlimited tea.
Upon completion, Participants will receive
Certificate of Completion
A thoughtfully curated experience designed to elevate confidence, presence, and refinement.
"Space is Limited"
To preserve the intimate nature of the experience, attendance is limited.
Registration and Location
For registration inquiries, please contact info@eettq.com or 866.556.5290
The Afternoon Tea Class takes place at The Willard Hotel,
1401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC.
Your Investment Includes
- Formal afternoon tea service
- Guided etiquette instruction
- All applicable taxes
- Certificate of Completion
A 10% group courtesy is available for parties of five or more.
Ticket Information
In the event of low enrollment, sessions may be rescheduled with advance notice.
Ticket Transferability
While tickets are nonrefundable, they may be transferred with advance notice.
- Transfer to another guest
- Apply your registration to a future tea experience
Requests should be submitted at least seven days prior to the event.
Flexibility and Service
At Etiquette Etiquette, we are committed to gracious service and thoughtful flexibility.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions or special considerations.
View Terms & Conditions.
"What Our Guests Are Saying"
- Amelia Junior League of Washington
Karen is a professional, polished, and knowledgeable presenter! The afternoon was informative, elegant, and entertaining. I look forward to future Etiquette Etiquette presentations.
- Carolyn Tillery
First, Karene and her husband are such amazing people. I had such a wonderful time learning about the history of tea and Afternoon tea. The whole event was such a beautiful experience that I will remember forever!
- Taylohr Richardson
I attended the Afternoon Tea Academy in September and found the experience both informative and elegant. As a long-time fan of etiquette and tea, I still walked away learning something new.
The Willard was the perfect setting, beautiful and welcoming, and the service was impeccable. Our table was attentively served, and the gluten-free accommodations were handled with great care. I felt truly seen and valued.
I proudly display my certificate and have enjoyed reading the etiquette guide. It was also meaningful to know the class supports the Flint, Michigan, community. A lovely and purposeful experience all around.
- Kristen Parks
Fabulous Tea & Etiquette Class
- Cheryl B.
We had a great time at the Tea Time Academy. My son has been trying to teach one of his sisters how to hold the fork. It’s easier for us to give each other gentle etiquette reminders since we have that shared experience.
- Sunny Norwood Buck. PhD
Mrs. Putney, This was an awesome class. So glad we got the opportunity to take part. I’ve already recommended your course. Thanks again!
- Dee Reed
I recommend for anyone interested to sign up now! Karene is fun, informative, and professional. Well worth your time if you are curious about Afternoon Tea.
- Amy Lynne
Attending the Tea Academy at the Willard was a lovely way to spend a Sunday afternoon. The information presented was inciteful and the interaction of the group made it great fun. Kudos to Ms. Putney.
- Mary Taylor-Acree
I loved the engaging energy Karene was able to create at the Tea Academy. From her slide presentation to her wonderful smile, this experience was indeed one I enjoyed!
- Torene B.
Beautiful place to learn, Mrs. Karene Putney is very soft-spoken and elegant. Really enjoyed our time at Afternoon Tea
- Kayla Berry
This event was so informative jammed packed with so much information but at the same time fun. I laughed, enjoyed some delicious food, and met some new friends. The host and her daughters were on point.
-Ann Evans
The experience with Etiquette Etiquette for the Tea Academy was amazing. Very professional, and I learned a lot about proper table manners as well as afternoon tea academy.
-Keisha Clarke-English
The experience was well worth it. A wonderful afternoon, elegant and informative. I would attend again and recommend that others attend. Lady Karen and her beautiful assistants exhibited grace, elegance, and class as well as style. Truly an A1 rating.
-Gina Boddie
Willard Afternoon Tea Menu
Page 2
* Scroll to see page 2 of the menu
Afternoon Tea Dress Guidance
Afternoon tea is a moment to dress with intention and enjoy the elegance of the setting. Guests are encouraged to wear attire that reflects the refined atmosphere of The Willard while remaining comfortable and true to their personal style.
We recommend formal or semi-formal attire, including dresses, tailored separates, and collared shirts. To preserve the tone of the experience, guests are kindly asked to avoid athletic wear, casual denim, t-shirts, shorts, or sportswear.
Thank you for helping us create a polished and refined ambiance for all guests.
Located in downtown Washington, D.C., two blocks from The White House and steps from the iconic monuments, memorials, and museums on the National Mall, Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C. is easily accessible by many modes of transportation.
Parking Garage: Colonial Parking®
Parking at The Willard:
- Valet parking is available for all hotel guests 24 hours a day.
- Guests may call for their vehicle at least 20 minutes prior to departure.
- The overnight valet parking rate is $78.00 and includes unrestricted in and out privileges.
- The Willard garage vehicle height restriction is 6′ 5″.
- All oversized vehicles, including buses, campers, RVs, and cars with trailers, are not permitted in the garage. Please see alternative parking options available at Union Station.
Parking Rates:
- 0-1 Hours: $26
- 1-4 Hours: $32
- Max/All Day: $37
Address: 1401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004
Phone number: (202) 628-9100
Media Release Consent
These images may be used across Etiquette Etiquette’s platforms, including our website, printed materials, and social media channels.
We value your participation and are thoughtful in how event imagery is shared. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the use of your image, please feel free to contact us.
Registration Is Now Open
Sunday, April 19, 2026 | 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
The Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C.
Event Admission
$180.00
Etiquette Afternoon Tea Class
Sunday, April 19, 2026 Time: 1:00PM – 4:00PM
This ticket grants admission to the Etiquette Etiquette Afternoon Tea Experience at The Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C..
Your reservation includes a curated afternoon tea service, guided etiquette instruction, and reserved seating for this exclusive event.
Early Reservation Courtesy (10%)
Use code REVERIE10 at checkout to receive 10% off your ticket. Offer expires February 26, 2026.
Description
Admission to the Afternoon Tea & Etiquette Experience at The Willard InterContinental
Just two blocks from the White House
Presented by Etiquette Etiquette®
Etiquette Etiquette’s collaboration with The Willard was formally announced through a national press release.
