What This Tour Meant To Me

I want to take a moment to share the story behind the video of me standing in Times Square, seeing Elaine Swann’s Book of Modern Etiquette on that giant billboard for the very first time. I posted the clip on social media, but what I felt in that moment was so much deeper than what a few seconds of video could ever capture.

Here is what I am thankful for today.

Seeing my new book on a billboard in Times Square was the culmination of years of hard work. It was proof that every late night, every hard decision, and every single step of this journey was worth it. At the same time, it felt like the beginning of something brand new. Something that I did not even realize was waiting for me. It was transformational and heartwarming in a way that I am still trying to put into words. I am in awe.

That billboard moment was the official start of my book tour. But I did not know that the real story was going to come from the people I would meet along the way.

I had no idea I would come face to face with so many of you who traveled across state lines, who flew in from other cities, who drove hours, who took trains and buses, all just to meet me. Person after person stood in front of me and said, “I have been following you for years. Your etiquette advice helped me with my coworkers. It helped me set a boundary with my family. It helped me raise my kids. It helped me handle something difficult in my life.”

And you know what… I cried every single day.

Every day.

The stories were overwhelming in the most beautiful way. I thought I was going on tour to launch a book, but I ended up being the one who was transformed. I thought the highest honor would be the recognition or the lists or the status that comes along with a major release. But what I learned on this tour is that the highest honor is the people. The connection. The way you showed up for me. The way you allowed my work to show up for you.

You were the blessing.

You are the part of this that I will remember for the rest of my life.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Every well wish, every book purchase, every person who hugged me, every person who brought a friend, every person who simply said, “I am proud of you,” you have no idea what it has done for me. My heart is so full. I am stunned at the wave of support. Truly stunned.

This experience changed me. It made me more grateful than I have ever been. It made me love the work even more. And it reminded me that at the end of the day, it is always about people. Always.

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

My final stop on this tour is my hometown of Oceanside, California. My alma mater, El Camino High School Tuesday December 2nd at 6:oo pm in the theater. If you are nearby, join me. I’d love to see you there.

With so much gratitude,

Elaine