Well, it was a delight to introduce these two at Fox Hall in 2016! When you have two equally high ranking people, a lady would come before a gentleman, so the gentleman is presented to her.
"Lady Carnarvon, may I introduce you to Jerry Franklin, the CEO of Connecticut Public Television? Jerry, Lady Carnarvon arrived from Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey) and we are thrilled to have her speaking at the Hill-Stead Museum in Farmington!"
Photo Credit: Deb Key Imagery
Age or rank come first
The name you say first is the most important and is determined by whether the person is the eldest or has the highest rank. For example, you would present a student to a teacher, or a work associate to a CEO, or a lieutenant to a General.
Here are two ways of how to say the first line of an introduction with the examples of: “May I introduce", and, "please meet”.
"Mummy, may I introduce my friend and classmate, Sarah Spencer, to you!”
"Mrs. Zwiener, please meet my seamstress, Erica Merry."
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Next, present the person of lesser age or rank
Be sure to include their first and last name, along with a little bit of information about them.
"Sarah, this is my Mum, Mrs. Eason, who also loves classical design as much as you do! Mummy, Sarah is the head of the British Sporting Art here at the museum and studied in England, just like you!"
(Note: Mummy’s “Mrs.” title is offered as an introduction to a younger person. If it is for someone near the same age then her first name is offered, Emmalene Eason)
"Erica, I thought you may wish to meet Mrs. Zwiener, as she founded DesignSourceCT, a comprehensive design showroom to the trade. You are a stupendous seamstress, so from fabrics, trims, and clients, I know you have much in common!"
Tantamount to giving a gift, making an introduction can be a most gratifying gesture for all parties. There is a chance that your introduction may prelude a relationship for both people! Whether your introduction creates lifelong friends, future lovers, or an important business connection, the effort you make to compose your introduction and what you add to it are all part of your gift. Ultimately, a great introduction reflects well on you!
Forbidden Faux Pas
Not to include the first AND last name for both people being introduced, unless you are introducing a large group to one person!
To introduce a relative by their relationship name and not offer their full name. Say what their real name is besides Mummy, cousin, aunt, etc. If you just hear the name “Mummy,” how in the world would you know her first and last name?!
To use a person’s nickname in an introduction, unless you know that person truly prefers it over their formal name, which I do myself!
To not include someone’s formal title in the introduction. If the person wishes not to have you use their title, they will speak up and make an alternative suggestion.
It is always best to err on the side of formality, a lesson I learned from both Mummy and Daddy which has served me well!!