About Robin Gifford Expertise My passion is seeing people interact comfortably in all situations. Etiquette is so misrepresented. I would love to chat about all things civil...or not! I will answer any question about social or business etiquette. Specifically, questions pertaining to dining out, dining for business, interviewing, hosting obligations, houseguests, office gift giving, introductions, technology etiquette...you name it! I love entertaining questions about global etiquette as well.
Experience My mother taught me most of what I know. She taught etiquette at her finishing school for over 20 years. I taught individuals how to take on the roles of host and guest at New York's finest parties. I lived and worked in Tokyo and Paris, so understand the important differences in cultural etiquette. I now coach people how to be comfortable in any business or social situation. Plus, I just like reading the historical background of good manners.
Organizations Rotary
International Association of Business Communicators
Association of Fundraising Professionals
Church
Education/Credentials 20 years experience in personal development, brand/marketing strategy, communications and business and social etiquette training.
B.A. in Political Science from Columbia University, New York.
The Protocol School of Palm Beach, seminars.
Question My wedding officiant is Pastor Frank Smith. He also has a PHD. His wife Michelle is a medical doctor. I feel I should give attention to his Pastor title since he is the officiant but I am not sure. Could you please help me with addressing the outer and inner envelope?
Outer envelope: Pastor and Doctor Frank Smith
or
Outer envelope: Doctors Michelle and Frank Smith.
Inner envelope: Doctors Smith
or
Inner envelope: Pastor and Doctor Smith
Thank you for your help.
Answer Dear Angela,
Thank you for your question. It can get a bit confusing when so many titles are given.
Here is the proper protocol when addressing invitations to a Protestant clergyman who is a doctor and his wife, also a doctor:
The outer envelope:
The Reverend Dr. Frank Smith and Dr. Michelle Smith
address
The inner envelope:
To quote Letitia Baldrige: "Address to a person with his or her or their famly name and title only. If children are invited, their given names are included on the inside envelope.
Ex: Doctors Smith
Jane, Ben and Eric
With that said, you should address like this:
Doctors Smith
You didn't ask, but if you are using place cards at the reception, you would simply put Dr. Smith on each card.
I hope this helps. Let me know if you have additional questions.
