Announcing the 2026-27 season of
A six-session formal program for 6th-9th grade ladies and gentlemen to practice their people skills, experience the tradition of partner dance, and skyrocket their social confidence. Registration will open at the end of summer for the 2026-27 season. Join the invite list to be the first to know when registration opens.
Meet our Director: Jera Hawn
Jera Hawn is the co-owner of The Holt House, a historic wedding venue in Lexington, and a former high school math teacher. With a background in education and a deep love for working with teenagers, she brings both structure and heart to the cotillion program.
Her passion lies in helping young people grow into kind, confident, and respectful individuals. Whether in the classroom or at home with her own daughters, Jera’s goal is to nurture polite, thoughtful humans who treat others with grace and put kindness first.
Meet our Assistant Director: Nia Ward
Nia Ward is co-owner of The Holt House and a photographer with years of experience capturing life’s most meaningful moments. Her background behind the camera has given her a unique perspective on poise, presence, and the little details that make a lasting impression.
As a mom of three and someone who naturally values grace and authenticity, Nia is passionate about helping young people carry themselves with confidence and kindness. Through this program, she hopes to encourage students to lead with respect, show up with intention, and represent themselves well in every setting.
Our Reason for Cotillion
Cotillion has long been a meaningful rite of passage for young people—a tradition rooted in grace, respect, and memorable experiences. Just ask any adult whose attended one: there’s something truly special about wearing a corsage or a bowtie, waltzing with a partner, and enjoying a formal dinner with friends.
It’s that timeless charm that first drew us in.
While cotillion certainly has an old-fashioned feel, we believe that’s part of its enduring value. That said, every single lesson in our program has been thoughtfully selected, carefully updated, and intentionally designed to be relevant and useful for today’s students.
These young people are the future leaders of our communities, and we want to equip them with the confidence and social awareness they’ll need to succeed. At the heart of it all, our lessons are grounded in kindness, respect, humility, and selflessness.
Because some things never go out of style.
“ Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”
At Davidson County Cotillion, we believe good manners begin with a genuine respect for others. This verse reminds us that courtesy isn’t just about knowing the right steps or using the right fork; it is about showing love, humility, and honor in the way we treat people every day. Our goal is to help students learn that true grace and etiquette flow from a heart that values others first.
Level 1 Cotillion
Exact class times will be assigned to all registered students by September 11th. If the assigned times do not work with your child's schedule, we can look at possible alternatives. If we can't make it work for you, refunds are available until September 15th.
Level 2 Cotillion
Students are encouraged, but not required, to complete Level 1 Cotillion before beginning Level 2. Students must be in 7th-9th grade to participate in Level 2 Cotillion,
What is included?
8+ HOURS of group instruction in etiquette, manners, and social dance at a wonderful venue.
INSTRUCTIONAL TEA/MEAL - let's give them practice in a formal dining setting before they get to the real thing.
SEMI-FORMAL BALL - a grand social event to culminate the season! An opportunity to show off their dance moves, dining manners, and make some quality memories with both their friends and parents.
ETIQUETTE REFERENCE GUIDE - professionally bound and customized to the lessons taught at cotillion. Your family can refer back to all the material for years to come.
REFRESHMENTS - every class. Always. The punch and snacks are serious business, y'all.
and lots of prizes!
What attire is needed?
After registering, a Cotillion Checklist and Dress Code Guide will be emailed to you that includes all of the dates and wardrobe information.
The Davidson County Cotillion is likely a good fit for your family if:
Your child is a 6th-9th grader and you're willing to drive (or carpool) to Lexington, North Carolina six times between October and April.
Your core family values include kindness, courtesy, and showing respect to others.
You'd appreciate some reinforcement while navigating these socially awkward tween and teenage years. Someone to come alongside you who can reiterate the social lessons you're teaching at home.
Your child is a bit shy and could use a little confidence boost.
Your child is a social butterfly and needs a place to shine or fine-tune some soft skills.
You are looking for social connections- an opportunity to network with families in your area.
Common Questions
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The information in each class subsequently builds toward the ball, but missing one isn't a deal breaker! Your student will be able to go over the missed material in their student booklet, complete the assignment, and watch the online dance lesson corresponding to the missed class so they'll be ready for the next event.
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Parents are invited to observe the last 10 minutes of any session (optional) and the last 45 minutes of the ball (highly encouraged!).
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For boys, I like Macy's, Land's End, and Belk. For ladies, I like Dillard's, J. Crew, Ralph Lauren, Altered State, Macy's, and Belk. Check out the dress code guide when you register that includes more details, photos, and links.
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For ladies who don't enjoy wearing dresses, jumpsuits are a great option! Our dress code guide non-dress options that still fit within the dress code for their gender.
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Please email Jera prior to the start of the event to discuss any allergies and I will do my best to accommodate as I have for many students in the past. Of course, I cannot guarantee the availability and safety of food items, but I am glad to work together to make sure your child has a plan and feels safe.
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Phones should not be visible during any part of the class, including the refreshment break.
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If you are unable to attend your assigned class time or the schedule does not work for you, refunds are available until September 15th (less a $25 administrative fee).
If you have questions or would like to discuss anything further, feel free to contact the instructor, Jera Hawn.
Call/Text: 336-225-6458
Email: cotillion@holthousenc.com
