The Avant Life

Ideas from the field. This workshop reflects and expands on a body of work shaped across two decades at the intersection of hospitality, design, and emerging technology. It explores how systems shape our lives at every scale- from personal decision-making logic, to visualizing trust dynamics within teams, to the structural intelligence behind emotionally-culturally-engaged organizations. It is an iterative toolkit for navigating complexity, cultivating culture, and building with intention. The goal is to share a living library of applied thinking—for those seeking to craft meaningful systems and lead with intention. The work represents a lifelong pursuit of clarity in structure, leadership and meaning in work — A. Latorre

An online journal for strategic development and refined living— Best practices, modern etiquette, and philosophies for building ‘hospitality’ systems that support the timeless luxury of a purpose-driven life.

Supported by essentialist routines and AI-workflows, this is an exploration of how discipline, design, reflection processes foster excellence in everyday life—how merging artistry and technology can help us live and work with greater clarity.

Core Commitments

Mastering etiquette is a lifelong pursuit, yet thankfully anyone can be a good conversationalist. It is an essential art that impacts almost every aspect of our lives. To master the art of conversation there is no pressing need to be witty or particularly eloquent in your speech. It requires only that you listen and be thoughtful in your words. Listening is a learned skill however, and goes beyond not interrupting someone as they are speaking. To listen is to be present. It is to express genuine interest through eye contact and open body language. It is to be engaged and to acknowledge the speaker through paraphrasing what was said, the occasional nod, or by injecting affirming statements like “sure” and “I see”. Listening is also in asking open-ended questions to better sense the speakers’ meaning and intent. Etiquette is listen to understand, not to respond. Be thoughtful with your words. Try to withhold judgment or offer advice when not asked. Pick up on the rhythm of the person speaking, allowing them to complete their thoughts before reflecting back and conveying your own opinions. Keep conversation light, positive, and approachable by engaging in small talk, which can carry the momentum of the conversation. Negativity and heavier, divisive subject matter can stifle a good conversation. Although cliche, avoid discussing views of politics, sex, or religion, as many people find these topics highly personal and could turn the conversation into a verbal battle. Instead use shared experiences and common interest to better connect. A good conversationalist is relaxed and patient. They are genuine and modest in the way they represent themselves. They are concise in expressing ideas and mindful not to dominate the conversation by sharing excessive details or monologging. They understand that conversation is a two-way street and that there is value in opposing viewpoints. To master the art of conversation is also knowing when and how to end one. End on a high note. Be considerate to potential time constraints for yourself and others. Leave a lasting impact by projecting future plans to meet or offering a final enduring message. Above all, be gracious in having the opportunity to connect with others. Alex Latorre, Etiquette Coach
Orlando's service and hospitality industry is thriving. Foreign visitors to the metro area, along with trade show and convention activity have been on an upward trajectory since December 2021. As a result, the demand for hotel rooms, lodging, and dining closely resembles that of the pre-health crisis period. Market reports show that Orlando's hotel occupancy, average daily rate (ADR), and revenue generated per available room (REVPAR) have made full recoveries. To be competitive in this trending market and maximize return on investment, organizations will need to consistently deliver a better service and employee experience through enhancing the skills of their leadership teams and staff. The Avant Life Consulting Agency is a sole proprietorship that specializes in the development of training programs focused on world-class service standards and realizing lasting organizational culture. As the founder and facilitator, I have decades of experience in the developing programs aimed at optimizing the modern service experience, working with renowned organizations like Darden Restaurants, Hyatt Hotels, and The Four Seasons Orlando. I offer my clients one-on-one consultation, customized training programs, and continued organizational support through an extensive online learning curriculum. My approach to training is comfortable and practical. I recognize that lasting change can only come about gradually and through practice. Increment by increment. The programs offered are designed around your business goals and are meant to be integrated into the organization's daily culture. I employ modern behavior tools like Predictive Index to better leverage my experience in on-boarding, skills training, team building, and leadership development. The goal for this consultancy is to work in partnership with clients to best ensure optimal employee and customer engagement. I do this through a comprehensive selection of customizable training programs focused on the art of modern business and service etiquette standards. I invite you to explore the programs offered through my consultancy and to schedule a free consultation to see how we can partner to advance your organizational goals.


Clarity

Exploring what truly matters—actions that serve a deeper purpose—opting for the ones that compound. Less, but better.


Craft

Structure that makes excellence the default—designed routines that maintain quality— Anchored by modern etiquette standards that make it land. 


Innovation

Leverage technology and AI to extend artistry—increase capability without losing authenticity. Automate the repeatable.