Nicki Black '00, '04
Owner and Founder
BA ’00, MA'04 (College of Liberal Arts) (College of Education and Human Development)
Alumni Association Member
About Polished & Beyond LLC
Polished & Beyond is an etiquette training business that helps children, teens, and working professionals build confidence, strong communication skills, and a polished presence. Through engaging workshops, private coaching, and online classes, the company teaches modern etiquette, including first impressions, professional communication, dining, and social skills, for real-world success.
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About Nicki
Nicki Black is the founder of Polished & Beyond LLC, an etiquette training company based in Minnesota that specializes in modern etiquette training for individuals of all ages. With a strong commitment to cultivating confidence, respect, and social awareness, Nicki’s mission is to equip children, teens, and adults with timeless yet practical etiquette skills that translate into real-world success.
Nicki holds a Master of Arts in Educational Psychology from the University of Minnesota, where she developed a deep understanding of how people learn, communicate, and build confidence. She is also certified as a corporate etiquette trainer by Jacqueline Whitmore, Founder of The Protocol School of Palm Beach, further strengthening her expertise in professional presence and business etiquette.
With a diverse professional background and extensive experience working with individuals across age groups, Nicki brings both warmth and credibility to her work. She has taught students, young professionals, and adults in a variety of settings—from classrooms and community education programs to corporate environments and private coaching sessions. She has also provided etiquette training for Minnesota Dairy Princesses, helping young ambassadors represent their communities with confidence, professionalism, and poise.
Nicki is especially passionate about helping individuals navigate social and professional situations with ease—from making strong first impressions and communicating with clarity to demonstrating confidence in both casual and formal environments. Whether teaching a child how to engage in conversation, guiding a teen through interview preparation, or helping professionals refine their presence, she meets learners where they are and helps them grow.
Through both in-person and online offerings, Nicki’s classes are known for being interactive, informative, and engaging. Her approach blends practical strategies with real-life scenarios, empowering participants to apply what they learn immediately. At the heart of her work is a belief that etiquette is not about rigid rules, but about showing respect, building relationships, and presenting oneself with confidence and authenticity.
