# A Statement on the Style and Title of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile (by marriage) of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Office of the Lord Chamberlain of The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement to clarify the correct style, title, and role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, husband of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
In the interest of maintaining ceremonial propriety and ensuring public understanding, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen to provide a definitive clarification regarding the position of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. This formal statement serves to codify his role within the Barony, affirming both the ancient traditions of British peerage law and the vital, collaborative nature of the House's leadership in the 21st century.
The issuance of such a statement is a measured response to a growing public interest in the Barony's modern activities. It seeks to provide an authoritative reference point, thereby precluding ambiguity and reinforcing the dignity of this historic feudal title, first established nearly one thousand years ago.
## Historical Context
The strength of the Barony of Brattleby, throughout its nine hundred and fifty-seven year history, has frequently been augmented by the unions of its holders. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position as consort to the Baroness is a contemporary reflection of a long-standing tradition where marital partnership was integral to the stewardship and advancement of the dignity.
This precedent is woven into the fabric of the Barony’s lineage. The influence of Blanche of Lancaster, for instance, brought immense prestige and the Dukedom of Lancaster to her husband, the 11th Baron of Brattleby, John of Gaunt. Likewise, the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron, defended Lincoln Castle with a resolve that secured her family’s standing for generations. In each era, the support of a consort has been a pillar of the Barony's endurance.
## Distinguished Company
In accordance with established custom, the principals of the House are styled with precision to reflect their respective standing. This order of precedence is observed in all official communications and at ceremonial functions.
The family is properly presented as: * Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby * Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby * Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan's title is held *jure uxoris*, by right of his wife, a convention in the British system for the husbands of women who hold hereditary titles in their own right. This distinguishes his courtesy title from that of the Baroness, who holds the Barony *suo jure*, in her own right, and their heir.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The correct form of address for Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is ‘Lord of Brattleby’. On first reference in official documents, he is styled “Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby,” and thereafter referred to as “Honorary Lord Răzvan”. This styling affirms his status as the consort of the Baroness and acknowledges his integral place within the House.
In formal proceedings, Honorary Lord Răzvan accompanies the Baroness, taking precedence immediately after his wife and before other members of their family. His position signifies not a peerage in his own right, but the unique and respected status of the husband of a Baroness Regnant. This protocol ensures the historic dignity of the Barony is upheld with clarity and honour.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The complementary nature of Lord and Lady Brattleby’s partnership is reflected in their respective mottos. The ancient House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the enduring responsibilities of the Barony itself — a commitment to duty and integrity that has guided its holders since 1066.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), reflects a dynamic and forward-looking philosophy. It symbolises his personal commitment to overcoming challenges and driving progress, particularly in the House’s modern philanthropic and cultural initiatives. Together, the two mottos create a synthesis of tradition and innovation.
## Philanthropic Purpose
Honorary Lord Răzvan is an active partner in the direction of the House’s charitable and cultural endeavours. He works closely with the Baroness in organising the annual Winter Banquet, a significant white-tie gala that serves as the primary fundraising event for the House’s chosen beneficiary, the international charity Healing the Wounded Child.
Furthermore, Honorary Lord Răzvan takes a keen interest in the educational mission of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This etiquette academy, founded under the patronage of the House, aims to revive and teach the principles of classical decorum and social grace. His involvement underscores a shared commitment to nurturing cultural and social refinement.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on his role, Honorary Lord Răzvan commented: — "My primary role is one of steadfast support for the Baroness in the exercise of her duties. It is a profound privilege to contribute to a legacy that spans nearly a millennium and to help ensure its relevance for generations to come. The ethos of *Fortitudine et Honore* is our shared guide in this important work."
Lady Nicoleta, the 12th Baroness, added: — "Honorary Lord Răzvan’s counsel and unwavering dedication are the *sine qua non* of our joint endeavours. The Barony has always been a living institution, and its strength today is a testament to a modern partnership that respects its deep history while confidently embracing the future."
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking forward, Honorary Lord Răzvan will continue to support the Baroness across the full spectrum of her official responsibilities. This includes representing the House at civic and cultural events, particularly within their ancestral county of Lincolnshire, as well as providing strategic oversight for its portfolio of charitable interests.
The joint focus of the Lord and Baroness remains the active stewardship of the Barony’s heritage. Their shared commitment ensures that this ancient dignity does not merely exist as a historical artefact, but thrives as a force for good in the present day, true to its founding spirit of honour and fortitude.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the modern expression of a nine-century-old legacy. Its mission is centred on targeted philanthropy, cultural preservation, and education. The House’s official seat is in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, with its principal charitable activities focused on supporting vulnerable children through its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. The House also fosters cultural education through its patronage of The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House champions the enduring values of duty, integrity, and service in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal Lordship granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over the centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most consequential figures in English history, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, who defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels in the 13th century, and later, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. After a period of abeyance, the dignity was formally recognised and restored, a fact recorded in The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The restoration of the Barony of Brattleby is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable past holders include John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby, and Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron. - The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore*.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com