Annie Holmquist

Annie Holmquist is a cultural commentator hailing from America's heartland who loves classic books, architecture, music, and values. Her writings can be found at Annie’s Attic on Substack.

The Case for Bringing Back Matchmaking

As dating app fatigue grows, singles looking for marriage are left with a difficult question: Where are they ...

Family & Education June 4, 2026
How to Be A Loyal Friend Through Thick and Thin

An etiquette expert offers tips on how to maintain lasting friendships.

American Essence May 20, 2026
Beauty in the Building: The Hidden Meanings of Good Architecture

Older homes reveal what modern architecture often forgets: that beauty nourishes the soul and our environments shape us.

Lifestyle December 24, 2025
How to Build Lasting Bonds Between Multiple Generations of the Family

Family rituals, silly or serious, can help create lasting memories.

American Essence December 10, 2025
Are We Dressing to the Lowest Common Denominator?

Dressing up has become more rare, but our clothes speak volumes about who we are and what we ...

Lifestyle October 16, 2025
Building Community With Kindness

A plate of cookies or a friendly wave goes a long way toward building community and warm relationships

American Essence October 1, 2025
How to Have the Epitaph of a Famous Man

Have you ever noticed that there are times in life when a whole rash of famous people die ...

History September 6, 2025
The Secret to Ending Political Vitriol Is Found in Hallmark Movies

These predictable films look unrealistic, but their comforting formula is more culturally significant than it seems.

Traditional Values August 2, 2025
Leaving a Rushmore-Sized Legacy Through Small Sacrifices

A reflection on what makes true greatness.

Family & Education July 6, 2025
Intimidated by Hosting? This Etiquette Expert Has 5 Ideas to Help

Hosting doesn’t need to be a fancy affair to touch the hearts of others.

American Essence July 4, 2025
The Art of Saying ‘No’: How to Graciously Set Boundaries, According to an Etiquette Expert

It's an uncomfortable move, but communication is key for healthier relationships. Bethany Friske offers tips to make it ...

American Essence May 20, 2025
It’s Time to Bring Back Pick-Up Games of Baseball

Unsupervised play allows children to develop character and skill sets like conflict resolution, imagination, and responsibility.

Family & Education May 18, 2025
How to Master the Art of First Impressions, According to an Etiquette Expert

5 tips for making a great first impression, according to etiquette expert Bethany Friske.

American Essence March 12, 2025
How to Encourage Single Women to Become Loving Wives and Mothers

The traditional role of wife and mother is becoming more popular among women.

Family & Education March 5, 2025
Childhood Success Starts With These 4 Basics

Kids benefit from having a supportive family more than they do from special resources.

Family & Education February 28, 2025
Raising Boys to Have a Strong Moral Compass

As Theodore Roosevelt said, training a boy to manhood requires them to attain knowledge and courage.

Family & Education December 5, 2024
Contentious Conversations: How to Handle Sensitive Topics With Grace and Goodwill

Five tips from etiquette instructor Bethany Friske for remaining civil in any situation.

American Essence November 9, 2024
Timeless Relationship Advice From a Famous Old Maid

Louisa May Alcott never married, but her characters know what qualities make a good partner.

Family & Education November 5, 2024
Plane Politeness: Practical Manners for Air Travel

Etiquette instructor Bethany Friske shares 5 tips to make your flight more enjoyable for everyone.

American Essence September 12, 2024
Going to the Dog (Moms): Loving Our Children More Than Our Pets

Lessons we can learn from pet owners.

Family & Education August 31, 2024
Neighborhood Niceties: Using Our Freedom to Foster Community Connections

Neighbors can be more than just the people who live next door.

Family & Education August 23, 2024
The Sounds of America: Letting Freedom Ring

Stop for a moment and listen. American freedom can be found in the sound of backyard birthday parties ...

Family & Education August 1, 2024
Learning Happiness From the Peanuts Gang

Studies reveal that Gen Z is struggling with happiness, but there are ways to turn that around.

Family & Education July 25, 2024
Let’s Joyfully Celebrate July 4th While Praying for the Strength to Surmount the Difficulties

Commentary Two short videos have sat on my phone for about a year now, both of which I ...

Viewpoints July 1, 2024
Putting the Country Back in the Boy at Hope Farm School

A farm-based boarding school in Wisconsin is changing the lives of inner-city boys.

Family & Education June 4, 2024
How to Teach Children Good Manners

Etiquette instructor Bethany Friske shares five tips for instilling kindness and respect in children from a young age.

American Essence May 15, 2024
Life Lessons From ‘Little House on the Prairie’

'Simple human decency' is at the heart of the show's perpetual popularity.

Family & Education April 9, 2024