Confidence, & Social Skills for Young Ladies and Gentlemen in Grades 6–9
JUNIOR COTILLION
Preparing Young People for Life.
Helping Young Ladies & Gentlemen Stand Out for the Right Reasons
Confidence. Character. Leadership. Social Skills.
Grades 6–9
5 Classes • Holiday Dance • Grand Ball
Limited Enrollment
For more than 30 years, families throughout Nashville and Williamson County have trusted the National League of Junior Cotillions® to help young ladies and gentlemen develop confidence, character, leadership, and social skills that prepare them for success in school, future careers, and life.
Why Parents Choose Junior Cotillion for Their Sons and Daughters
More than etiquette. A foundation for confidence, character, and leadership.
Students Learn To:
Introduce themselves confidently
Hold conversations with adults
Make strong first impressions
Navigate formal events comfortably
Show leadership and respect
Dance with confidence and poise
The skills students develop in Junior Cotillion become tools they will use for a lifetime—from school presentations and leadership roles to college interviews, future careers, and life's most important moments.
"I highly recommend Junior Cotillion"
"My oldest son completed Year I and Year II. When we visited multiple high schools this year, I was so proud of the way my son was able to shake hands, introduce himself to teachers and administrators, all while looking them in the eye with great confidence. It was amazing to watch him and the great “training” of Cotillion at work. My youngest son recently completed Year I and is looking forward to Year II, as he has heard how awesome Year II is from his older brother.” "
- Jan Neal- Franklin Parent
Give Your Child Skills That Last a Lifetime
Enrollment is intentionally limited.
Many classes fill before summer ends.
TESTIMONIALS
What Parents Tell Us...
"I recommend it to you for your family.."
"..It was a beautiful thing to watch that transition over several months and to see my son and his friends at the Grand Ball having the best time..I recommend it to you for your family as well ." - Kelly Moreland Jones, Nashville Resident, Advisory Board member and Parent of Two Sons
"I recommend NLJC to any parent wanting their child to be more civilized, connected and confident"
"My children's experiences have been very positive. Their confidence has grown. My favorite is the difference in how my son makes eye contact when speaking with me or others." - Chelsea Gilbert, Mother of five children and long time Advisory Board Member.
"Both of my boys have so enjoyed the Cotillion program and we see how it has benefitted them.."
We wanted our children to be immediately respectful of others without knowing them. We wanted them to be able to know how to handle themselves in social situations that were not pre-planned. We wanted them to be able to engage with others with confidence. My sons really enjoy the Cotillion program. They enjoy being confident when they go to a school dance and knowing how to ask a young lady to dance.
Mercedes David, Parent of two boys.
"the Junior Cotillion staff does wonders with the kids"
"I am so proud of him and of the Junior Cotillion staff, they do wonders with the kids, Clark is blossoming into a wonderful young man, Thank you Junior Cotillion "
Patty Hoppenstedt, Franklin Resident, Former Advisory Board Member and Mother of a son & daughter
"Having so many positive influences on our son and his behavior will help him achieve more.."
".My son had such better manners even after the first lesson."
Holly Brewer, Brentwood Parent & Resident
"Highly recommend this"
"Amauri’s experience in the NLJC has been an absolutely wonderful one... Not many 12 year old boys are super excited about Junior Cotillion at first glance...But, as the weeks and months passed with each class, he learned more and quickly became comfortable. Unexpectedly, we witnessed him putting his newly learned skills into practice. When Amauri met potential clients of our family owned business, he introduced himself, made eye contact, extended his hand and gave both of them a firm handshake. The potential clients were so impressed. They said anyone with a preteen son with that type of confidence and manners were definitely the people with whom they wanted to work.""
Tanisha Hart-Love. Parent & Nashville Business Owner
"Enroll Your Sons.."
"I would tell moms of boys to enroll your sons!! Yes, they are going to complain, and yes, they are going to be upset when they can’t wear their athletic clothes for an hour and a half, but it’s a great confidence booster and all-around character-building experience. Thank you so much for your hard work!"
Cathryn Ruth- Mom and Franklin Resident.
"Highly recommend this"
"My friends and I have loved the experience of Cotillion for our kids. They are learning so much that we know that they would not learn elsewhere. These are becoming lost skills that in my opinion, need to be kept alive. Thank you for offering a way for this to happen. A safe place for our kids to learn about being polite, mindful of others, and how to interact properly."
Jennifer Hopper
"Our children are better positioned to respectfully and meaningfully connect with others of any generation"
"We were pleased when our son and daughter were invited to join NLJC. As daily life and social interactions change, we welcomed the chance for them to learn and practice the fundamentals of respect, courtesy, and grace. They learned important components of etiquette, how to ballroom dance, and how to adapt etiquette to the modern day world. We believe that, by participating in NLJC, our children are better positioned to respectfully and meaningfully connect with others of any generation, regardless of the setting they may be in. "
Drs. David & Neesha Choma-Nashville
Why Junior Cotillion Is Different
While students certainly learn etiquette, Junior Cotillion is about much more than knowing which fork to use.
Students learn how to:
✓ Introduce themselves confidently
✓ Communicate effectively with adults and peers
✓ Demonstrate leadership
✓ Build positive relationships
✓ Navigate social situations comfortably
✓ Practice respect and consideration for others
✓ Build confidence in unfamiliar situations
✓ Develop poise and self-assurance
Etiquette is simply the vehicle.
Confidence, leadership, character, and communication are the destination.
What Students Experience
Junior Cotillion combines instruction with real-world opportunities to practice what is learned.
Students attend five instructional classes while also participating in two signature events:
Instructional Classes
Interactive lessons covering etiquette, leadership, character development, communication skills, and ballroom dance.
Holiday Dance
A Night They'll Remember for Years!
The Holiday Dance is one of the most anticipated events of the Junior Cotillion season. Students from across Middle Tennessee enjoy music, conversation, refreshments, and dancing while putting their skills into practice in a festive, welcoming setting. It builds confidence and helps students feel comfortable and excited for the Grand Ball.
Grand Ball
The Grand Ball is the unforgettable finale of the Junior Cotillion season. Dressed in formal attire, students celebrate their accomplishments with an elegant evening of ballroom dancing and recognition alongside family and friends. It's a memorable tradition that celebrates their growth while creating moments that families will treasure for years to come.
What Students Learn in Junior Cotillion
JUNIOR COTILLION I
Grades 6-9
An engaging introduction to manners, confidence, and social skills.
SEPTEMBER-FEBRUARAY (one Saturday Per Month)
Topics Include:
• First Impressions
• Introductions
• Conversation Skills
• Respectful Communication
• Dining Etiquette
• Table Manners
• Electronic Etiquette
• Door, Coat, and Hat Etiquette
• Social Confidence
• Paying / Receiving Compliments
• Foxtrot, Cha-Cha & Beach Shag
No prior dance or etiquette experience is required.
JUNIOR COTILLION II
Grades 7-10
Year II is designed for students who have completed Year I.
Students continue building confidence and leadership skills while exploring more advanced topics.
Topics Include:
Formal Dining Etiquette
Interview Skills
Workplace Etiquette
Telephone & Electronic Courtesies
Leadership Development
Character Education
Professional First Impressions
Advanced Ballroom Dance
Real-World Social Skills
Five-Course Instructional Dinner
Year II includes a special instructional dinner experience that prepares students for formal dining situations they may encounter throughout life.
Two Chapters — One Combined Program Experience
Nashville and Williamson County families attend programs together. Registration is completed separately based on where your child attends school.
Junior Cotillion Class schedule
2026-2027
JUNIOR COTILLION
YEAR I
📍 CLASSES AND HOLIDAY DANCE AT:
THE FIFTY FORWARD MARTIN CENTER
960 Heritage Way
Brentwood, TN
SATURDAYS:
Introduction Class 1: September 12, 2026
Autumn Class 2: October 3, 2026
Thanksgiving Class 3: November 7, 2026
Holiday Dance: December 12, 2026
Winter Class 4: January 9, 2027
Valentines Class 5: February 6, 2027.
Saturday, February 20, 2027
Black & White Formal Grand Ball
Richland Country Club
1 Club Dr, Nashville, TN 37215
Class Time Assignments
Year I students will be assigned a regular class time on or about August 15th.
Available class times may include:
• 8:00 AM
• 10:00 AM
• 12:00 PM
• 2:00 PM
• 4:00 PM
• 6:00 PM (when offered)
Students are grouped with peers from their school. 7th-9th grade year I students are grouped.
JUNIOR COTILLION
YEAR II
📍 CLASSES AND HOLIDAY DANCE AT:
THE FIFTY FORWARD MARTIN CENTER
960 Heritage Way
Brentwood, TN
SATURDAYS:
Back to Basics Class 1: September 12, 2026
Positive First Impression Class 2: October 3, 2026
Thanksgiving Class 3: November 7, 2026
Holiday Dance: December 12, 2026
Social Networking Class 4: January 9, 2027
Valentine's Class 5: February 6, 2027
Year II students meet in the evening. The class usually begins at either 6 pm or 8 pm, but will not be set until August.
Friday, February 19, 2027
Black & White Instructional Dinner & Grand Ball
Richland Country Club
1 Club Dr, Nashville, TN 37215
Ready to Enroll?
Junior Cotillion Year I or II
5 Classes • Holiday Dance • Grand Ball
Five instructional classes
Holiday Dance
Grand Ball
Ballroom dance instruction
Leadership development
Character education
Etiquette & social skills instruction
Confidence-building experiences that prepare students for high school, college, and beyond
INVESTMENT
$500
Includes five instructional classes, the Holiday Dance, the Grand Ball, etiquette instruction, ballroom dance, character education, and a season of meaningful social development.
Enrollment is intentionally limited to maintain balanced classes of young ladies and gentlemen. Register early for the best opportunity to receive your preferred chapter and class time.
READY TO REGISTER?
Select the chapter based on the school your child attends. Registration and payment are completed on the official National League of Junior Cotillions® registration website.
What Happens After I Register...
Once you register, we'll guide you through every step—from registration to class assignment—so you'll always know what to expect.
Questions Parents Often Ask
How is the program structured?
Each class and the Holiday Dance is 90 minutes each. Each class is 60% etiquette Instruction and 40% Dance. Through dance, they are learning appropriate boundaries, eye contact, conversation skills, and how to work together with others.
Will my child know anyone?
Our rising 6th-grade students are grouped with classmates whenever possible, and many students quickly make new friends from schools across Nashville and Williamson County. Our 7th-9th-grade students are normally grouped in an afternoon class.
Is Junior Cotillion only for outgoing students?
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Does my child need previous Cotillion experience?
No. Many students are participating for the first time, and no prior etiquette or dance experience is required. However, most of our students return each year.
What if my child is shy?
Many students begin the program feeling shy or uncertain in social situations.
Junior Cotillion provides a supportive environment where students can build confidence gradually while developing new skills and friendships.
What should lady students wear to class?
Junior Cotillion maintains a dress code that helps create an atmosphere of respect, confidence, and consideration for others. The dress code is not about fashion. It is designed to help create an environment where students learn respect, consideration, self-confidence, and the importance of presenting themselves appropriately for different occasions.
Young Ladies
Dresses or skirts should be knee-length or longer (no more than 1 inch above the knee).
Strapless attire is not permitted.
Shoes must have both a front and back.
Short white gloves (available for purchase at the name tag table).
Athletic shoes, flip-flops, and slides are not permitted.
To maintain respect, parents, guests, and chaperones attending classes or events are expected to follow the same standard of dress. Gloves not required for adults.
What should gentlemen students wear to class?
Junior Cotillion maintains a dress code that helps create an atmosphere of respect, confidence, and consideration for others. The dress code is not about fashion. It is designed to help create an environment where students learn respect, consideration, self-confidence, and the importance of presenting themselves appropriately for different occasions.
Young Gentlemen
Khaki or dress trousers
Collared dress shirt
Tie required
Hard-soled dress shoes
Athletic shoes and boots are not permitted
To maintain respect, parents, guests, and chaperones attending classes or events are expected to follow the same standard of dress.
What should lady students wear to the Holiday Dance?
Holiday Dance
Young Ladies: Knee-Length or longer dress, short white gloves required
Parents, guests, and chaperones attending these events are also expected to dress appropriately for the occasion. Gloves not required for adults.
What should gentlemen students wear to the Holiday Dance?
Holiday Dance
Young Gentlemen: Dark blazer, tie, dress trousers, and dress shoes required.
Parents, guests, and chaperones attending these events are also expected to dress appropriately for the occasion. Gloves not required for adults.
What should lady students wear to the Grand Ball?
Grand Ball Dress Code- Formal / Black Tie
Young Ladies: Knee-Length or longer dress Formal or Semi-Formal White dress, short white gloves required, dress shoes.
Parents, guests, and chaperones attending these events are also expected to dress appropriately for the occasion. Gloves and formals are not required for adults, but dresses for ladies and blazers/tie/dress pants for men are required.
What should gentlemen students wear to the Grand Ball?
Grand Ball Dress Code- Formal / Black Tie
Young Gentlemen: Black tie tuxedo and dress shoes.
Parents, guests, and chaperones attending these events are also expected to dress appropriately for the occasion. Gloves and formals are not required for adults, but dresses for ladies and blazers/tie/dress pants for men are required. Mixed Media Painting by Kevin Wimpy Portraits
What if my child misses a class?
We understand—life happens, and as parents ourselves, we know schedules can change.
Your child will be assigned a regular class time for the season. If a conflict arises, Year I students may attend another class time on the same day, as space allows. Simply submit a quick make-up request form with your top three preferred class times for that month. Available class times are typically 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, Noon, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM, and occasionally 6:00 PM.
If attending another class time isn't possible, your student should complete the assignments and practice activities in their workbook before the next class. We also encourage them to arrive 15 minutes early to their next class and introduce themselves to one of our Teaching Assistants, who will be happy to answer questions and help them catch up. Not only does this reinforce the lesson, but it also gives students an opportunity to practice advocating for themselves—a valuable life skill.
If your family has a known standing conflict with one of the available class times, please notify the office before August 1st so that we may consider it during the class placement process. While specific class times cannot be guaranteed, we make every effort to accommodate scheduling needs whenever possible.
Can parents attend?
Classes/Holiday Dance- Parents are invited to chaperon one class during the season. RSVP required since seating is limited. Dress code required.
Chaperoning for the Grand Ball and Instructional Dinner is limited to our volunteer advisory board members due to limited space. All parents may come to the last 20 minutes of the ball to dance with their student. Dress code required.
Is Junior Cotillion for both boys and girls?
Absolutely.
Junior Cotillion is designed for both young ladies and young gentlemen. Students participate together while developing confidence, leadership skills, etiquette, social grace, and ballroom dance skills.
Does my child need dance experience?
No.
Most students have little or no ballroom dance experience when they begin.
Instruction is specifically designed for beginners. The main point of them learning to dance is so they will learn appropriate boundaries, working with another person to move together, eye contact, how to ask, and how to cut in.
Can Homeschool Student Participate?
Absolutely.
Homeschool students are welcome and regularly participate in both Nashville and Williamson County programs. Some even participate from surrounding counties who do not have their own chapters.
How are students assigned to classes?
Students are grouped with peers from their school. If they are older than 6th grade, they are grouped with other older students.
Class assignments are distributed on August 15th once we've had an opportunity to balance the classes and match schools.
Do Nashville & Williamson County Students attend together?
Yes.
Students from both counties participate together in classes, dances, and events.
When registering, select the chapter based on where your child attends school. If your student is outside the county, select "other" and write in the school. If you are in Sumner or Maury counties, please sign up with them at nljc.com
Give Your Student an Advantage That Lasts a Lifetime
Proudly Serving Families Throughout Middle Tennessee
For more than 30 years, the National League of Junior Cotillions® Nashville & Williamson County Chapters has welcomed students from Brentwood, Franklin, Nashville, Nolensville, Thompson's Station, College Grove, Spring Hill, Belle Meade, Green Hills, Forest Hills, Oak Hill, and surrounding Middle Tennessee communities.
Whether your child attends public, private, homeschool, or independent schools, we look forward to welcoming your family.
Confidence
Leadership
Character
Respect
Communication
These qualities continue serving students long after the final dance.
Trusted by Nashville and Williamson County Families Since 1994
For more than three decades, the National League of Junior Cotillions® has helped more than 20,000 students and families throughout Nashville and Williamson County prepare young people for the opportunities ahead.
Ready to Help Your Child Build Confidence That Lasts a Lifetime?
Reserve your Child's place today by clicking on the Link Below.
The National League of Junior Cotillions®
Nashville & Williamson County Chapters
Serving Nashville, Brentwood, Franklin, Williamson County, and Middle Tennessee families through Pre-Cotillion, Junior Cotillion, and Tea & Etiquette programs.
Main Program Overview
Pre-Cotillion
Junior Cotillion
Tea & Etiquette
NATIONAL OFFICE/BECOME A DIRECTOR- NLJC.com
Contact
Office: 615-610-8587
Call for session details, questions, and enrollment support.
