So You Want to Be London's Most Honourable (or Hilarious) Honcho? How to Snag a Title in the Big Smoke
Ever feel like your name just doesn't have enough pizazz? Does "Sir" Reginald Periwinkle sound infinitely more dashing than your current moniker? Well, my friend, fret no more! We're diving headfirst into the world of London titles, exploring how to transform yourself from a nobody to a...well, a slightly-more-interesting somebody.
How To Get A Title In London |
The Aristocratic Approach: Inheriting Your Way to Greatness (or Debts)
Let's be honest, this is the classic, the cr�me de la cr�me, the inheriting-an-earldom-from-great-great-aunt-Mildred route. It's steeped in tradition, possibly involves a crumbling manor house and a collection of questionable taxidermy. But there's a catch (of course, there's always a catch). You'll need a relative with a dusty old title and a penchant for kicking the bucket at an opportune moment. Not exactly something you can plan, unless you have a particularly persuasive time machine (in which case, hit me up, I have some investment ideas).
Pro Tip: Brush up on your distant relatives. You never know, a second cousin twice removed might be secretly the Duke of Dingwall (and in desperate need of an heir who doesn't spend their weekends LARPing as a hobbit).
Tip: Focus on clarity, not speed.
The Moneybags Method: Buying Your Way to Nobility (with Asterisks)
Feeling flush? You can always buy a little lordship online! Yes, that's right, for a few measly quid, you can become Laird of Loch Ness (though the Loch Ness monster may take issue with a new landlord). Now, there are some asterisks here. These titles are more like fancy nicknames than anything official. You won't be getting a seat in the House of Lords (unless you bring a particularly comfy folding chair). But hey, it'll definitely liven up your Tinder profile.
Pro Tip: Haggle! Play those online title vendors like a pro. You never know, you might score a discount on Lord of Leaky Faucet Lane.
Tip: Reading on mobile? Zoom in for better comfort.
The Do-It-Yourself Route: Deed Poll Power!
Feeling left out? Don't worry, the good old British sense of humor comes to the rescue! By way of a Deed Poll, you can legally change your name to anything your heart desires. Fancy yourself Lady Lavinia Lovelylocks? Captain Calamity? The possibilities are endless (though some employers might be less than thrilled with Captain Calamity on the payroll).
Pro Tip: Get creative! But avoid anything too outlandish; you might regret being "Dr. Sparkletrousers" when you need a bank loan.
QuickTip: Skim fast, then return for detail.
So, You've Got Your Title: Now What?
Congratulations! You're now officially a Londoner with a title (of sorts). Now, the real fun begins. Prepare to be mildly bewildered by strangers calling you "Lord" (even if it's Lord Leaky Faucet Lane). Remember, with great titles comes mild confusion and possibly a few raised eyebrows. But hey, at least you'll be the most interesting person at the next office meeting.
FAQ: Your Burning Title Questions Answered
How to inherit a title? Hope for a generous (and recently deceased) relative.
Tip: Stop when confused — clarity comes with patience.
How to buy a title? Do your research online, but remember, buyer beware!
How to get a title for free? Deed Poll your way to glory, but choose wisely!
How to use your new title? With a healthy dose of humor and the understanding it might cause some amusement.
How to become a real Duke/Earl/Baron? Marry into royalty or perform a miracle (good luck with that one).