Mary Bouras

I help people and organizations shine by blending the art of hospitality with the power of professional development. My background spans VIP protocol for world leaders, directing high-profile events in Washington, D.C. and abroad, and coaching professionals on confidence, etiquette, and presence.

Whether it’s creating unforgettable guest experiences, training teams to step into leadership with polish, or guiding individuals to unlock their confidence, I thrive on helping others open doors to new opportunities. After living and working across the U.S. and Europe as a military spouse, I bring cultural intelligence, adaptability, and a global perspective to everything I do.

At the heart of my work is a simple belief: confidence and courtesy never go out of style — and they are the keys that transform careers, connections, and lives.

Mary Bouras Coaching | Founder | St. Louis, MO | 2020 – Present

• Founded and operated a coaching and professional development company serving clients across the U.S. and Europe
• Designed and led trainings on confidence, leadership presence, workplace etiquette, and communication skills
• Created digital products, managed marketing, client communications, and facilitated workshops both virtually and in-person
• Coached clients to identify goals, build new habits, and navigate personal and professional transitions
• Built strong relationships with a diverse audience, acting as a trusted advisor and accountability partner

316th Air Wing | Chief of Protocol | Andrews AFB, MD | 2010-2011

• Directed protocol for high-profile events including arrivals and departures of U.S. and world leaders
• Coordinated hospitality for international delegations, ensuring seamless logistics and cultural sensitivity
• Partnered with senior executives, military leadership, and global stakeholders to deliver flawless guest experiences

501st Combat Support Wing | Protocol Officer | Alconbury, England | 2009

• Coordinated high-level military and diplomatic visits from NATO, allied nations, and senior U.S. officials
• Developed comprehensive itineraries and logistics for official functions, ceremonies, and events
• Liaised with local civic and international military leaders to uphold protocol standards
• Briefed command leadership on visitor engagements and ceremonial planning

The Watergate Hotel | Director of Catering | Washington, D.C. | 2003-2004

• Managed large-scale hospitality events, banquets, and conferences for VIP and corporate clients
• Oversaw budgets, staff, and vendor contracts while ensuring exceptional client service
• Developed innovative guest experience strategies to exceed expectations

Lazy Suzan/Steven Becker Fine Dining | Director of Catering Sales | St. Louis, MO | 1998-2002

• Promoted through three leadership roles, managing large-scale events (30 – 1,000+ guests)
• Supervised and trained a team of catering managers
• Collaborated on branding and marketing including website development and community engagement

Maritz Travel Company | Travel Director | St. Louis, MO | 1997-1998

• Managed domestic and international VIP incentive travel programs for Fortune 500 clients
• Coordinated with global partners to deliver seamless, high-stakes experiences
• Oversaw large teams onsite and resolved issues in real-time during international programs

Health Coach Institute | Mastery Transformational Coach Certification | 2021

Air Force Support Professional Development School | Protocol Fundamentals Certification | 2010

The Protocol School of Washington | Corporate Etiquette & International Protocol Certification | 2010

University of Missouri – St. Louis | Secondary Education Certification | 2000

Saint Louis University | Bachelor of Arts, Psychology | 1997