About Erika & Gerda Carina
"The Art of Old Money Elegance by Erika & Gerda Carina” is a concept and lifestyle created by Etiquette & Style Coach™ Erika Kolbakov and Gerda Carina — born from a shared desire to bring more grace and elegance into people’s lives.
Erika Kolbakov is a respected etiquette educator and the author of “Etiquette and Good Manners for the Whole Family“ published in Estonian. Erika teaches high-level social and business etiquette of the Western world, based on classic English etiquette and elegance.
Since the roots of traditional etiquette and refinement lie in England (and France), Erika has been training and furthering her expertise in London with leading professionals in the field since 2012. She has also gained knowledge from a professionally recognized American etiquette trainer. In her teaching, Erika aims to rely on sources that are both credible and relevant in today’s world.
No diploma alone makes someone a specialist — it takes something much deeper: love and passion for the chosen field. One also cannot succeed without real-life experience or the ability to communicate with people. One must engage in continuous and purposeful self-development and stay up to date with changes — but above all, life itself is the greatest teacher. A true expert is someone who deeply understands their field and possesses versatile knowledge and skills. This requires approaching the subject with great enthusiasm, thorough research and study — meaning a tremendous investment of time, energy, and resources.
Professional preparation and certifications:
Business Executives Protocol, Business Etiquette Trainer, Well-Mannered Communications Skills Trainer, Assertiveness Skills Certification, Children’s Etiquette Trainer, Teenager’s Etiquette Trainer, Lady’s Social Etiquette & Empowerment, Accredited Style Coach™
Completed programs:
The Polished Professional, Styled for Success, Personal Image and Society Dress-Codes, Dressing for Society Events, Art of Networking and Socialising, International Business vs. Social Etiquette, International Business Dining, Networking and Socialising with Cultural Sensitivity, International Body Language, The Art of Electronic Communication, Art of the Table, Elegant Formal Dining Tutorial, Posture, Poise and Deportment, English Business Protocol, English Social Etiquette Skills, The Art and Etiquette of English Afternoon Tea, Graceful Deportment and Stylish Dress Codes, Successful Style – Executive Image and Professional Style, Poised Masterclass
Gerda Carina is an artist and international portrait photographer whose journey began with a passion for storytelling through images. From her beginnings in London to her creative journey through Monaco, Dubai, Morocco, and Bali, she has collaborated with a wide range of prestigious names, including the British Royal Family, Vogue Arabia, Versace, Esteban Ocon and many more - while cultivating a distinctive style of gold-infused wall art that captures strength, elegance, and stillness.
Together, Erika and Gerda have created "The Art of Old Money Elegance by Erika & Gerda Carina” — immersive offerings that reflect the grace and quiet strength of legacy living. Inspired by the psychology of Old Money, these experiences invite women, to step into their most polished, beautiful and elegant selves.
It is believed that elegance is not merely an act, but a state of being —
a quiet confidence,
a cultivated grace,
a depth of presence that is felt more than seen.
Through personalized sessions, refined dining experiences, and meticulously designed environments, values that endure are restored:
Discretion. Courtesy. Beauty. Self-respect. Elegance.
Exclusive fine dining table experiences are also offered for couples and larger groups across the globe, in destinations such as Estonia, Italy, Monaco, England, and beyond. These events merge exquisite cuisine with timeless etiquette, providing guests the opportunity to experience presence and grace.
In a world where transient trends often overshadow lasting values, the choice is made to embrace the enduring. To invest in oneself as one would care for a treasured family heirloom — with love, discernment, and patience.
Whether through etiquette refinement, graceful appearance, or artistic expression, the mission is to inspire a life of elegance — not just for today, but for generations to come.
For bookings or bespoke experiences, contact:
gerda@oldmoneyetiquette.com