Are you tired of giving the same old gifts year after year? Do you want to surprise your loved ones with a truly unique and luxurious experience? Look no further than the gift of a butler for a day!

Imagine the look of delight on your friend or family member’s face when they realize they will have their very own personal butler at their beck and call for a whole day. From preparing gourmet meals to running errands to providing top-notch service, a butler for a day experience is the epitome of luxury and indulgence.

Why Choose a Butler for a Day Gift?

1. Unforgettable Experience

A butler for a day gift is a rare opportunity that can create lasting memories. It’s a unique experience that offers a taste of luxury and personalized service. The recipient can enjoy being pampered and catered to for a day, making them feel special and appreciated. This thoughtful gift allows for a break from the ordinary and adds a touch of elegance to their routine.

2. Luxury and Comfort

Having a butler for a day allows the recipient to relax and enjoy themselves without worrying about the little details. They can truly feel pampered and cared for in a way that is usually reserved for the elite. A butler for a day can provide a luxurious experience, allowing the recipient to unwind and indulge without fretting over minor tasks.

3. Unique and Thoughtful

Stand out from the crowd with a gift that shows you’ve put thought and effort into choosing something special. A butler for a day experience is a truly unique gift that will leave a lasting impression. It shows thought and effort in choosing something special. This experience allows the recipient to enjoy a day of luxury and personalized service, creating unforgettable memories. It’s a standout gift that goes beyond material items and offers a one-of-a-kind experience that will be cherished for a long time.

What does a butler at a party do?

A butler at a party oversees the smooth running of the event. They greet guests, serve drinks and food, and ensure everyone’s needs are met. From setting up the dining area to managing the coat check, the butler’s attention to detail adds an element of sophistication and elegance to the party. They can introduce guests and answer any questions that may arise. They will know how to handle guests and when to hold back on topping up the champagne or when to take the party to the next level. 

It doesn’t have to be a party. In the past, we have arranged butlers for all kinds of scenarios. One couple arranged a holiday with a group of friends, it was a self-catering large home. The couple arranged to have a butler accompany them for the weekend as a surprise. It allowed everyone to relax yet feel pampered. They admitted it was an indulgent addition but found the experience completely worth it and wouldn’t hesitate to do it again. 

How to Arrange a Butler for a Day Experience

1. Research Butler Services: Look for reputable butler service companies that offer day-long experiences. Make sure to read reviews and check their credentials to ensure a top-notch experience. Factor in the type of butler that you would like, they are all of course extremely professional but they all come with their unique personality.
2. Customize the Experience: Work with the butler service providers to tailor the day’s activities to the recipient’s preferences. Whether they prefer a day of relaxation or a day filled with adventure, the butler can cater to their needs.
3. Make a list of tasks you would like to experience, such as serving meals, setting up a table, or organizing a social event. Communicate your expectations clearly to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Remember to treat your butler with respect and appreciation for their expertise in the field. Consider suggestions that they may have. 

We have an incredible database of qualified and experienced butlers and can help make this process smooth and enjoyable. Contact us today to find out how we can help you.

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In a world where luxury and service go hand in hand, the role of a butler has long been associated with the upper echelons of society. But are Butler schools real? Do they exist, or are they just a figment of our imagination?

The answer may surprise you. Yes, butler schools are real, and they play a crucial role in training individuals to provide top-notch service to the elite class. These schools offer specialized programs that cover a wide range of skills, from formal table service and housekeeping to personal valeting and event planning.

Definition and Origin of a Butler School

Butler schools are institutions that offer training in the art of domestic service and household management. Originating in the 19th century in England, butler schools were established to provide education and training to individuals aspiring to work as butlers in wealthy households. Through a combination of practical skills and etiquette training, these schools prepare students for careers in private service, focusing on duties such as formal table setting, silver service, and personal valeting.

The Prestige of Butler Schools

Butler schools are often shrouded in an air of exclusivity and prestige. Many of them are located in luxurious settings, such as grand estates or historic mansions, adding to their allure. Students who attend these schools are not only trained in the art of service but also the finer points of etiquette, discretion, and professionalism.

What Do Butler Schools Offer?

So, what exactly do Butler schools offer? Here are some common components of a butler training program:
Household Management: Students learn how to efficiently run a household, manage staff, and oversee day-to-day operations.
Table Service: Proper table setting, formal dining etiquette, and wine service are all essential skills taught at Butler schools.
Personal Service: From wardrobe management to travel arrangements, butlers are trained to cater to their employer’s every need.
Event Planning: Butlers often play a key role in organizing and executing events, from intimate dinner parties to elaborate galas.

Career Opportunities for Butlers

Graduates of butler schools can pursue a variety of career paths, including working in private households, luxury hotels, yachts, and even high-profile individuals such as celebrities or dignitaries. The demand for well-trained butlers remains strong. Whilst many roles do expect some previous experience, there are opportunities for junior butler roles who may lack experience yet have recently trained. This offers the perfect opportunity to put new skills into practice as well as learn from others along the way.

The Relevance and Significance of Butler Schools Today

Butler schools were historically essential for training household staff. Today, their relevance lies in preserving traditional service skills. However, their significance has shifted towards luxury hospitality training and career advancement in the service industry. Many hotels are now employing butlers for certain times of the year and per guest request, this gives an even more elevated type of service to the establishment.

Why is the Polo and Tweeds Butler Course shorter than some offered around the world?

Polo and Tweeds Butler Course has a shorter duration compared to similar programs globally. This shorter length may be advantageous for individuals looking to quickly gain essential skills and enter the workforce sooner. Additionally, a more condensed course could attract those with limited availability or resources, allowing them to pursue this career path without a long-term commitment. Despite its shorter duration, the Polo and Tweeds Butler Course focuses on delivering comprehensive training that equips students with practical knowledge and hands-on experience to excel in the field. Offering the course online allows individuals with full-time jobs to study at their own pace. This flexibility is a major draw for those looking to balance work and learning.

We love to talk about how great our online courses are but if you would like to try before you buy we offer free tasters courses for all our online courses.
Offering free taster courses for online learning is a fantastic way to give potential students a glimpse of the quality and style of your courses. It allows individuals to experience firsthand what they can expect before making a financial commitment. Check them out here.

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1. Start with a Detailed Packing List

The key to successful packing is to start with a detailed packing list. Sit down with your principal if possible and go over the itinerary together to determine what items they will need for each day of the trip. This can also be done with the personal assistant if this is more appropriate. Make sure to include essentials such as clothing, toiletries, electronics, and any specific items required for their meetings or events.

2. Choose the Right Suitcase

Before you even start packing for your principal, ensure you have the right suitcase for the trip. Consider the duration of the trip, the destination, and any specific requirements such as size restrictions for carry-on luggage. Opt for a lightweight, durable suitcase with multiple compartments for easy organization. High-quality, designer suitcase that not only looks stylish but also offers ample space and compartments to keep your belongings organized. Consider brands like Rimowa, Louis Vuitton, or Tumi for a blend of luxury and functionality.

3. Organize Clothing and Accessories

When packing clothing for your principal, it’s important to consider the weather at their destination and any dress codes they may need to adhere to. Lay out each outfit, including accessories and shoes, to ensure everything coordinates and fits properly. Consider using packing cubes or garment bags to keep items organized and wrinkle-free, we also recommend using tissue paper between each layer of clothing. Place shoes in the cloth bags they came with, clean them before if they look like they need it. 

4. Pack Efficiently

To maximize space in luggage, roll clothing items instead of folding them. Utilize the space inside shoes and pockets for smaller items like socks and underwear. Consider using travel-sized containers for toiletries to save space and prevent spills. Always place a wash bag in a plastic bag, in case there are spills and leaks. If there is room then we suggest packing the way a butler would, by laying items flat in the case with tissue paper in between, starting with heavier items first like suit jackets. Shoes and belts can then be placed around the side of the case. This method means that not only is it easier to pack the other end but there are less creases in the clothes. 

5. Don’t Forget Important Documents

Make sure your principal has all necessary documents for their trip, including their passport, itinerary, tickets, and any required identification or visas. Keep these items organized in a secure and easily accessible location, such as a travel wallet or pouch.

6. Pack Essential Electronics 

Ensure your principal has all necessary electronics for their trip, including chargers, adapters, and any devices needed for work or communication. Pack these items in a separate bag or pouch to keep them organized and easily accessible and coil them neatly. If there are lots of cables sometimes it helps to add a label on the cable for the device it is used for, making it much easier to find and use.

7. Communication When Packing Your Principal’s Suitcase

It may very well be that the principal is heading to another of their properties in another location or even their yacht. It’s always prudent to communicate with the staff that may receive the bag and unpack it. Send through the packing list along with any relevant information and instructions. This also means that you can track where items are, principals often forget they have left their suit or ball gown elsewhere until they need it at the last minute! Ensure you have labeled the bags with a classy and discreet tag, there may be more than one Rimowa case on the jet!

Providing guidance on tasks like packing and unpacking can help staff adapt to new duties. This support is crucial for those transitioning to roles where these responsibilities were not part of their previous job descriptions. If you need some help with this then we can provide support in either training or consultancy, reach out to us today.

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IT Assistance

Digital work lists means that you can create and share items on the agenda with others. The downside to anything digital is the requirement to have a device with you at all times. Now with a housekeeper, this might be difficult. If you need an app on the phone, it does not look professional and can often confuse work with downtime. Some places have a no phone policy during work and this will need to be amended. Technology enhances communication and helps your team efficiently complete tasks. It’s good for the planet too, meaning less paper is required.

Digital support

Any apps that can ease the pressure of work have got to be a good thing. Great for inventories such as wine, dry goods, linens and cleaning supplies. They can at first be time consuming to enter all the information, and this can vary depending on the scale of the house. Once set-up though they simply aid you at work and keep the household highly organized.

Light Control

Lighting systems such as Lutron LED lighting control systems work by controlling the lights within a home as well as dimming and daylight management. You can set ‘night’ and ‘day modes and they can be incorporated with automated blinds too. Making a turn down session a breeze with the press of a button. Simple to use when you know how and if you had similar setups in other properties then you will transition easily into a new workplace. Those that are new to the system just need an explanation and an understanding. Very often the ‘smart systems’ are capable of so much, but often need experts to come in and set up properly taking into account the needs of the home. Some smart systems work off tablets that need charging, this may fall onto the housekeeper to take care of.

Modern Technology Appliances

Ovens that have a self clean function are called pyrolytic ovens.They are amazing but be mindful of the timing of them being set. Once started, they are locked and the process cannot be aborted. Understand the depth of the cleaning required and how long that would take. Ventilation is required and remember to take out unnecessary items ahead of time.

Robot vacuums

Have become quite the norm in many households and there are many affordable options as well as the high end ones. They still require you to program and maintain them. However in high traffic areas they can really offer support and help, leaving housekeepers to continue with other areas of the house. Especially when there are pets in the home that shed. Some are self emptying, remember that vessel still needs to be emptied!

Garment Cleaner

Did you know there is even a clothing care system that enables people to clean their clothes without actually putting them in the machine? The modern appliance works by having garments hung on the incorporated hook and scanned with a smartphone; users can clean the piece of clothing using the incorporated wand – which manually removes particles and dust. The ‘Air Clean’ functionality will deodorize clothes through the use of anion particles, which will finish the cleaning process and have garments ready for wear in no time, technology at its best.

Smart toilets

Have all sorts of functions, the most common being the heated seat. The settings themselves are easy to manage. Cleaners still need to know how they work and if there is any maintenance required and remembering to schedule this in.https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home-products/g39494829/best-smart-toilets/

Bluetooth washing machines

where you can set the time can be really helpful. So items are not sat in the machine overnight but can be set for 7am and ready for you to unload at 8am when starting work. It could be linens or rags or tea towels from last night’s dinner party. Perhaps you asked the butler to load the machine and you pre set it. The perfect harmony!!! The same can be done for dishwashers, the kitchen might be right below the master bedroom and the 3 loud beeps it makes after its cycle at 1am might be enough to send anyone crazy out of a deep slumber. Dishwashers can also be programmed to be put on first thing in the morning, ready to be unloaded.
MHVR systems-how they work and what you have to know

Advanced Technology Systems

Window Cleaners

AI powered window cleaners are really a thing. The robot is integrated with AI technology enabling it to operate automatically and easily detect frames or other obstacles on windows. Controlled via a remote control or your smartphone to making it an advanced piece of technology for modern consumers to take advantage of. It does however have cleaning pads that will of course need changing and the device itself moving to another location. We are not totally sold on the concept, unless in an apartment on the 28th floor!

Alarms

Home security systems are extremely smart. When you get to understand how they work then they are relatively easy to control. As a housekeeper it may be part of your job to activate the alarm at the end of the day, or possibly at the beginning. Yet another thing to learn….. The list goes on.

So much that is available around us can make our lives easier but there is a balance. When everything works fine and is understood by its users then we know that’s a benefit. Often things go wrong and this can take time to fix. Some just want a pad and a pen for lists and a mop and bucket to clean with.

The role of technology in modern housekeeping can play a large part in a role as a housekeeper. Have you moved with the times? Do you embrace the technology around us? We would love to know your thoughts.

Did you know our expert consultants can even offer advice on gadgets and appliances as well as how modern technology can benefit the team?Get in touch with us today to find out more.

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The Key to Organisation is to Delegate

It’s impossible to do it all on your own. Not only that but you shouldn’t do it all on your own when you have a team to help you. Think of the saying ‘many hands make light work’. Even if you are the head housekeeper. Good leaders learn how to get the most from their team. Some people excel in certain areas, use this expertise. They may relish the idea of clearing out the laundry room, others may be a whizz on a comp and can update or create an inventory in no time.

Cupboards Clean and Tidy

We all have the best intentions of keeping everything tidy all the time but sometimes this is out of our control. Aim to clear out all the cupboards by working as a team and going through them room by room. This way the teams memory will be fresh and you can take note of any duplicate items that are not stored together.

Store Like a Pro

Invest in good quality storage containers for a multitude of items. Whilst out shopping then treat yourself to a label maker if the budget allows. Allowing for clearly signed shelves and storage boxes means that everything has a home. As soon as you start to do this you will see how neat and tidy everything is and then it’s much easier to maintain. Measuring spaces and taking a look online can be an efficient way of getting exactly what you need.
Decant everything into containers from cereals to toilet paper. It will look neater, be a noticeable difference and easier to use. It also allows for you to be able to see when you get low on items at a quick glance. It’s efficient.

Inventories

Keep inventories up to date. Stay on top of this task and it won’t be so daunting or overwhelming. Staying organised is one of the best tips for any housekeeper.
Creating diagrams of how items such as bed sheets are to be folded. This means everyone does it right the first time, consistency is key. Post the diagrams in the laundry and cupboards where they are stored.

Create daily weekly routines for all staff and lists of jobs to do when it’s a quieter time this way you can plan ahead and also keep on top of everything.
Creating lists is generally the way to go, and if it’s shared it means everyone can be involved. It feels good to check items off a list, paper or digital.
Schedule in help from external companies such as carpet cleaners, marble polishers or even carpenters to build extra shelves to aid organization

Cleaning Products

Scale down on the cleaning products. At nearly every household staff end up inheriting lots of cleaning products that are old or too strong to consider using. Throwing the products out is the best bet, not only will this make room,  but it will also mean they won’t accidentally get used. Experienced housekeepers know that there is no need for Bleach in a home. If it’s there someone will use it and it may destroy a surface or the principal’s clothing. Try not to see this as wasteful, truth be told it was wasteful that they were purchased in the first place. Bicarbonate of soda, white vinegar and fairy liquid will now become your main staple in the cleaning process. Scaling down on items that you really do not need will leave room for you to bulk buy and help maintain budgets and this means less shopping trips too!

Laundry Room

A busy room in any household. An area which benefits from being tidy. Make a point of tidying and cleaning and then getting into the habit of cleaning at the end of the day and returning any items that do not belong there. The laundry area always seems to become a dumping ground for items that were left in pockets or items that were left in guest rooms.

By staying organized, you will save time looking for things and will have more time to work on important tasks. Staying organized can help the Housekeeping team be more productive. This will also improve the flow of communication with the team.

If you have any organization tips for housekeepers working in houses then we would love to hear from you in the comments.

Are you a housekeeper looking to brush up on your skills? Or perhaps a principal who needs training for the staff? Polo & Tweed cater to both individuals and households, our experienced trainers can help you be confident in your housekeeping skills. Get in touch with us today to find out more.

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How to Begin

Leaving yachting is a big decision. Luckily the extremely high standards of working on a superyacht acquired skills can transfer directly into a private household. Some crew may have already dipped their toe in this whilst onboard. The yacht owners sometimes like crew members to help in houses to train staff,  cover for absences or help with a large party. They understand they have an excellent ability to preempt and problem-solve. This counts for a lot and in turn, means the principals can step back and allow them to do their job and take care of all needs and requirements. For those who have not yet been given the opportunity to work ashore then all is not lost, many recruitment agencies realise what an asset an ex-yachtie is in private households. 

Attention to Detail

Only the best will do, yet this won’t be an issue. Yacht crew are taught and trained to look out for wonky lamp shades, fingerprints on glass and smears on mirrors. Experts in attending to guest preferences, they know how important is it to focus on detail. Understanding the need for privacy and respect yet be ready to jump into action at all times. 

Understanding Hierarchy

There is a definite need for hierarchy on a yacht and most of the time it’s from the captain all the way down to a junior crew member. This chain of command is essential to the smooth running of the vessel. Houses can run similarly. Some roles cross over a little more. Such as butlers often can act as house managers. Housekeepers may often need to help with service or light cooking. As a crew member, this will not phase you as you have already been doing this. Teamwork is something you do with your eyes closed, another reason why yacht crew transition into private households.

Ability to Adapt and Be Flexible

Change happens, but you already know this. Time and time again you have known the schedule of the yacht owners. However, after many years at sea, you have come to realize that change happens. The good thing is, that this does not phase you at all. You have learnt to be flexible and adapt to change, all the crew have. 

What you thought may have been a weekend off coming up has transcended into owners and guests filling the boat and having a party. However, in a few days, the boat will be left with an empty boat that needs a complete turnaround in next to no time. The crew will get this done and when time permits they may get to rest in the sun for a short while. 

How are Superyachts and Houses Different?

All houses or villas will have different materials and surfaces, yachts are generally new and shiny. Some country estates are ancient, dripping in history. Many with antiques that need expert care and handling. The yacht crew will no doubt have a black book of contacts they can call if they require more help. 

You may have direct contact with the owner who will be known as the principal. There may be a family office also, however, the likelihood is that as a crew member, you have already had many dealings with family offices and understand the structure. 

Some houses can be run more informally, with some households without uniforms. There can be shift patterns for working hours and days. There may only be 1 or 2 members of staff.

Animals

Country estates in England during the winter season host shoots. As a staff member, there is a large amount of preparation for this. Although each week it becomes like a well-oiled machine and everyone does their part to get ready for this. It’s more of a case of learning requirements and the etiquette behind it. 

Looking after pets, whilst some yachts do have dogs onboard, many do not. This can be a wonderful addition to the housekeeper’s daily tasks. A walk on the estate with the dog, and getting fresh can make a nice change to being stuck detailing cabins with a small porthole or clearing out a bilge.

Take the Plunge

Making the transition to land from sea can seem daunting. However many houses have staff houses and the properties are used at certain times of the year. Leaving staff to manage their time accordingly allowing for a better work-life balance than at sea. This can be a career for life in the right setting. Yacht crews skills will be welcomed by all, their hardworking ethic and constant strive for perfection can make them indispensable staff members.

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Estate Manager

Elevated to the pinnacle of domestic service positions, the role of an estate manager transcends traditional responsibilities to become a comprehensive steward of the household’s seamless functioning. Entrusted with the oversight of every aspect of the estate, an estate manager becomes the linchpin for ensuring that the intricate machinery of the household operates smoothly. From the supervision of domestic staff to the meticulous management of budgets and the orchestration of sophisticated events, the estate manager’s purview encompasses a diverse array of duties. Exceptional organizational skills are paramount as they navigate the complexities of running a household with precision and efficiency.

Furthermore, the interpersonal aspect of the role is equally crucial, as estate managers must foster positive relationships with both staff and the household’s residents. The demands of this multifaceted position, requiring a delicate balance between administrative prowess and people skills, contribute to its status as one of the highest-paying jobs in the domestic service industry. The estate manager emerges as a key figure in upholding the standards of luxury living, where their ability to seamlessly blend operational excellence with interpersonal finesse defines the essence of their invaluable role in upscale households

How to Get There:

To embark on a career as an estate manager, start by gaining relevant experience in domestic service or hospitality. Acquire skills in staff management, budgeting, and event planning. Networking within high-end domestic service circles and obtaining certifications in estate management or hospitality can significantly boost your credibility. Showcase your attention to detail, discretion, and problem-solving abilities to prospective employers to stand out in this competitive field.

Butler

The evolution of the butler’s role from its traditional roots has transformed it into a sophisticated and highly sought-after position within upscale households. Today, butlers stand at the top of seamless household operations, responsible for orchestrating the day-to-day intricacies with unparalleled finesse. Their duties extend far beyond the conventional. Butlers are entrusted with the oversight of other domestic staff, ensuring a harmonious and efficient working environment. Their meticulous attention to detail is evident in the management of inventories. Significantly ensuring that every element within the household is not only accounted for but also maintained to the highest standards of quality and presentation.

Impeccable service is at the core of a butler’s responsibilities. It not only requires a profound understanding of etiquette and formal service protocols but also the ability to anticipate and fulfil the unique needs and preferences of the principals. In essence, the modern butler is a multifaceted professional, seamlessly blending traditional charm with contemporary efficiency to uphold the essence of luxury living in upscale households.

How to Get There:

Start your journey to becoming a butler by gaining experience in hospitality or domestic service. Familiarize yourself with formal service protocols, household management, and the art of discreet communication. Training programs specific to butler services are available and can enhance your skill set. Networking within the affluent community and building a reputation for professionalism and attention to detail will open doors to high-paying butler positions.

Personal Chef

In households where culinary excellence is the focal point, personal chefs assume a pivotal role as culinary artisans. They are dedicated to crafting customized, gourmet meals tailored to the unique tastes and preferences of the principals. Beyond showcasing their culinary expertise, these chefs adeptly navigate a complex landscape of dietary preferences and restrictions. This demands a keen understanding of nutritional principles and also the ability to seamlessly modify recipes without compromising on flavour. The adaptability of personal chefs is crucial, as they cater to diverse diets such as vegan, gluten-free, paleo, and keto.

Trust and ongoing communication build the relationship between a personal chef and their principal. They must create an environment where they consistently exceed expectations by delivering gastronomic delights that elevate the overall dining experience. Personal chefs are the architects of unforgettable culinary journeys. They blend creativity with precision, creating meals that go beyond the ordinary and become a part of a luxurious lifestyle.

How to Get There:

Embark on your culinary journey by enrolling in a reputable culinary school, ensuring a solid foundation. Gain valuable hands-on experience in high-end restaurants or catering establishments to hone your skills. Specialize in a variety of cuisines to cater to diverse tastes and broaden your culinary repertoire. Differentiate yourself by building a personal brand as a personal chef, showcasing a portfolio that highlights your unique culinary creations. To further set yourself apart, actively network within the upscale community, encouraging connections with potential clients. Additionally, consider joining professional associations to expand your network and also open up new opportunities for securing high-paying positions.

Have these top 3 highest paying jobs inspired you to seek a career in the domestic industry? Get ready to embark on a rewarding career in the world of luxury domestic service. Your dream job may be closer than you think and Polo & Tweed are here to help you achieve it. Get in touch with us today or visit our vacancies page for the latest roles.

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What Do We Know About Orchids

Orchids have long been known as symbols of good health and purity and many years ago were believed to have brought good luck to those that grew them. There are over 25,000 different species of orchid, they take 5 years from being germinated to bloom and the flowers are symmetrical. Well cared for orchids will last for about 15-20 years. 

What does a Healthy Orchid look like

Its leaves are more of an olive green shade rather than dark green, if they are dark green then they are not receiving the right amount of light. If the leaves are more yellow then they are receiving too much sunlight. The leaves should also be stiff and upright, if they are limp it could be there is a watering issue.

Where is the Best Place for Orchids?

Orchids like many flowers and plants grow best in warmer temperatures, its roots will grow. The leaves will be healthy in colour and the best part is they will flower. In order for the orchid to flower it uses a lot of energy. If there isn’t enough energy stored then your orchid may grow wonderful healthy leaves and roots yet may be unsuccessful in flowering. In Cooler temperatures the orchid will take more of a hibernation approach and take a rest. So finding the right temperature can be tricky and maintaining consistency is key .Bright yet indirect light is important, so a windowsill where it faces east or west is ideal. A window that has a sheer or a blind can provide the ideal set up.

How to care for and Maintain A Healthy Orchid

We tend to water the roots as well as the leaves as orchids lose water through their leaves in the form of oxygen and then in turn absorb carbon dioxide. Spritzing leaves therefore is advisable. Depending on the type of Orchid you have will make a difference of the temperature it requires, warm growing orchids like 16-18 C at night and 19-29C during the day, cool growing orchids like 13-15 C at night and around 20-24C during the day. Fans are a good solution to regulate the temperature and air circulation can prevent disease. Cracking a window at night during summer months can be the ideal way of bringing the temperature down. Seed mats with smart plugs can also be another option for maintaining temperature.

What to do if you see your Orchid is Dying

After your orchid blooms it will need trimming, this will encourage a healthy growth of leaves and roots. Cut the flower back to its base. Most orchids die because they are overwatered. Orchids will need less watering after its blooms. If the leaves become limp you may want to consider repotting with a dry potting mix. Also if the roots hang over it’s likely to need a larger pot, ensure that orchids are repotted just before spring as this is the blooming season and it gives the plant the best start. You may need to adjust your watering schedule or perhaps the temperature and location. Orchid food can be added to your watering schedule, follow product label instructions for this. This will ensure the correct care for your orchid.

Watering

Before watering, please do check the moisture content in the pot, if you stick your finger in the pot and it dries it needs watering during the day. That way they have had a chance to dry out before the night time temperature decreases.

It’s a common misconception orchids like fairly consistent temperature, therefore adding an ice cube contradicts this. The tip of using an ice cube came about as a way to suggest the correct amount of water used each time. Unfortunately at times this can lead to under-watering. Some plants come with moss in the pot, this is very absorbent. There is a concern that by soaking the pot in water that the moss stays wet for a while and this can result in the roots rotting, sometimes its possible to remove the moss for watering and return it to the pot after. Most come with a type of pine bark and this is ideal as its well-draining, however be sure to water copiously.

The best advice to keep your orchids healthy is to do some research to understand where they grow naturally. Try and replicate the environment in your home, try not to panic. They have the same care needs as other plants that bloom, they just need a consistent care schedule.

How Can Polo & Tweed Help?

If all this advice seems a little overwhelming along with all your daily duties our expert trainers have a wealth of knowledge in all fields. They can come into your home on a consultancy basis or for private training. If you would like to know more contact us online or by calling +44(0)203 858 0233 to speak with our Training Department.

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The Role of A Butler

Let’s clarify what a Butler’s duties are, there are of course many but these are the most common of them. Setting the table and serving all meals, drawing a bath, making various appointments and arrangements for the Principals, packing and unpacking, pressing clothes, polishing shoes, arranging flowers, polishing silver, party planning, purchasing, meeting and greeting guests, maintaining the wine cellar, providing beverage service. The role is trusted by principals and discretion is key. Butlers are trained to pre-empt and always be one step ahead,  anything from getting out the umbrellas ahead of walking to dinner with them knowing that it’s going to rain, or automatically placing the green tea next to the desk before its asked for each day.

The Role of A Housekeeper

The role of a housekeeper is often one that people cross reference with a cleaner. However the personal nature of this role allows you to serve the Owner of the home knowing all their needs. A cleaner would come in and pick up items, clean the area and set items down again. A Housekeeper would return any items to their correct place. Housekeepers just know when trousers are left on the back of the bedroom chair it means send them off to dry cleaning.

Housekeepers clean with immaculate care and detail with a knowledge of the correct cleaning products to use on delicate surfaces. At night they know that you like 2 bottles of water next to the bed. The correct setting for the bedroom thermostat. The laundry is completed, as well as the wardrobe organized beautifully.  The house never runs out of toilet paper. The magic fairy that empties the hair out of your hairbrush is indeed the Housekeeper.

Both roles preempt the principals every move. The newspapers arrive on Sundays, the specific tea  to drink is always in the cupboard, the luggage is brought to the bedroom for packing ahead of being asked. The inventories are maintained and every time a drawer is opened or cupboard it’s organized and neat.

Do You Need A Butler or a Housekeeper?

It comes down really to what’s important to you? Do you entertain lots with formal gatherings?
Do you want some at your beck and call? Is cleanliness, laundry and your wardrobe more of a concern to you?
Housekeepers are often the most common role for many houses. It’s a step up from a cleaner but the extra money you have to pay usually outweighs this decision.
Whereas Butlers are more suitable for large properties with homeowners with a busy lifestyle.
Employed to oversee the other staff instead of or as well as the House or Estate Manager. Extremely skilled in all areas of their duties. Ask them to purchase wine or maintain the wine cellar and this will not fill them with horror, they know that the ideal humidity will be between 60-70% and the best places to go for good wine will be somewhere they have used for many years with a trustworthy reputation. What you pay for is experience, yes it may cost you more but this may be worth it depending on your needs.

Is it ok to Combine the roles?

Well, do you really want someone one minute cleaning the toilets then the next serving guests their dinner? Both roles perform different duties and whilst staff are be flexible and help in all areas where needed, clearly defined roles allows for staff to understand expectations. In many houses it can be common practice for the housekeepers on occasion to take out plates to the table to help. For Butlers they may help turn around bedrooms and bathrooms at the last minute but in a large household this isn’t realistic or indeed professional.

You could of course have a full time Housekeeper and then hire a butler temporarily when you have events. We at Polo and Tweed can help with that.
Equally you can have both and have both and ensure that everyone understands each other’s role. Very often Polo and Tweed go into houses and train Housekeepers in Silver Service, in case the need arrises for them to use these skills. We also train Butlers to perform Housekeepers’ jobs with ease should they have to step in due to unforeseen circumstances.

Have you considered how versatile a full-time butler or housekeeper is? Polo and Tweed are here to help if you would like to hire a butler or housekeeper. When finding the right individual you should take your time and consider all your options. If you are looking for your new dream job, Polo and Tweed offer E-Online Butler training or E-Online Housekeeper training . This can help boost your CV and make you stand out to employers. If you’d like to chat with us, please do get in touch by giving us a call on +44(0)203 858 0233.

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