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Show Notes
Spring has arrived in Western Australia, bringing longer days, native wildflowers, birds nesting and the subtle feeling that the world is opening once again.
In this personal episode of Manners and Other Matters, Louise Percy shares how the changing season inspires her to reflect on her home, wardrobe, relationships and everyday habits.
Welcoming spring elegantly does not require a shopping expedition, an immaculate home or an entirely new wardrobe. True elegance can be found in noticing, tending, refreshing and appreciating what we already have.
Notice the season you are living in
Many of us move through the year without pausing to observe the subtle changes taking place around us.
Louise shares the signs of spring in her Perth garden, from jonquils, bluebells and budding Just Joey roses to wisteria, citrus blossom and the familiar visits of kookaburras and magpies.
The Noongar seasonal calendar recognises six seasons in the south-west of Western Australia. What is broadly called spring overlaps with Djilba, the season of conception, and Kambarang, the season of birth and increasing warmth.
This close observation reminds us that a season is more than a date on a calendar. It is something unfolding around us.
Refresh your home gently
Spring cleaning need not involve emptying every cupboard or transforming the entire house in one exhausting weekend.
A more elegant approach is to care for the home gradually and intentionally. Open the windows, launder and store heavier winter furnishings, polish glassware for outdoor entertaining and attend to the entrance through which guests are welcomed.
An elegant home is not necessarily large, expensive or ready to be photographed. It is a home that feels peaceful, comfortable and cared for.
A little organisation also reduces stress and makes spontaneous hospitality considerably easier.
Rediscover your wardrobe
Australian spring weather can be wonderfully indecisive. A cool morning may become a very warm afternoon before returning to a chilly evening.
Layers, scarves and lightweight outerwear make it possible to dress comfortably and appropriately as the temperature changes.
Before buying something new, Louise recommends looking again at what is already in the wardrobe. Clean garments before storing them, remove dry-cleaning plastic, repair anything that needs attention and care properly for treasured or inherited pieces.
Personal presentation is not simply about appearance. It is an expression of self-respect and consideration for the people and occasions around us.
Renew social connections
Spring naturally encourages us to become more socially active after the quieter rhythm of winter.
Rather than continuing to say, “We must catch up,” extend an invitation with a definite day, time and place.
Hospitality need not be elaborate. A guest can feel genuinely welcomed over a pot of tea, coffee or a simple lunch in the garden.
The elegance of hospitality is not measured by the grandeur of the table. It is revealed by how thoughtfully we consider the people gathered around it.
Bring nature indoors respectfully
Arranging flowers invites us to slow down and observe colour, shape, texture and fragrance.
A beautiful arrangement may combine supermarket flowers, herbs and a few stems gathered responsibly from one’s own garden. It need not be expensive or professionally styled to bring pleasure into the home.
Western Australia’s celebrated wildflowers belong to delicate ecosystems. Their beauty is not an invitation to pick them, leave designated paths or damage their surroundings for the sake of a photograph.
Respect and consideration extend beyond our treatment of people. They also apply to the landscapes and natural environments we enjoy.
Conduct a seasonal self-audit
Spring cleaning can include more than homes and wardrobes.
A seasonal self-audit is a gentle opportunity to consider our habits, relationships and everyday manners.
Ask yourself:
• Have I been fully present when others are speaking?
• Do I acknowledge invitations promptly?
• Have I thanked those who make my life easier?
• Is there an apology I have postponed?
• Have I neglected a valued friendship?
• Have I become careless about punctuality?
• Am I too easily distracted by my telephone?
• Do I extend the same courtesy online that I offer face to face?
This is not an exercise in self-criticism. It is an opportunity to notice where a small adjustment might make life more pleasant for ourselves and others.
Create a meaningful seasonal ritual
Louise begins spring mornings with a cup of tea in the garden before walking her Pomeranian, Amélie.
Your own ritual might be arranging flowers, visiting a produce market, dining outside, contacting an old friend or sitting quietly in the morning light.
The ritual itself matters less than the attention you bring to it.
Key takeaways
• Renewal does not require complete reinvention.
• An elegant home feels cared for, comfortable and welcoming.
• Caring for clothing is both economical and elegant.
• Clear invitations turn good intentions into genuine connection.
• Thoughtful hospitality matters more than elaborate presentation.
• Respect for nature is part of elegant living.
• A self-audit should encourage awareness, not self-criticism.
• Elegance is created through the care we bring to ordinary days.
If you would like Louise’s asparagus risotto recipe, or assistance with your own personal self-audit, contact Louise here.
Discover More About Modern Manners
At The Percy Institute, I believe etiquette isn’t about outdated rules. It’s about confidence, kindness, respect and consideration for others.
Whether we’re dining with friends, meeting someone for the first time, communicating in the workplace or even taking our four-legged companions out into the world, those principles remain remarkably consistent.
Explore my contemporary etiquette programmes and The Art of an Elegant Life Masterclass through The Percy Institute
The Percy Institute
For upcoming events, courses, masterclasses and more information about modern manners and elegant living, visit: https://thepercyinstitute.com
Have a Question for Louise?
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Have a question for Louise?
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