King Charles III and Queen Camilla hosted a lavish State Banquet on Tuesday evening at St George’s Hall, Windsor Castle, marking the first such event in two years. The state banquet featured French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte. It was supposed to symbolize the growing diplomatic relationship between France and the United Kingdom, a relationship that catered to their common history and culture.
The tables gleamed beautifully, decorated with big blooming branches of seasonal goodies including blooming stocks, hydrangea, lavender, roses and herbs. These stunning flowers were harvested straight from the gardens of Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle. Centerpieces made from silver-gilt imparted a sumptuous note, borrowed from the Grand Service.
Queen Camilla wowed guests in a spectacular caped cobalt blue evening dress. To accessorise, she wore a breathtaking silk and crepe ivory embroidered gown by Fiona Clare to top off her ensemble. Over her gown, she wore an unusual sapphire and diamond tiara. The Princess of Wales made a striking appearance, donning the diamond and pearl Lover’s Knot tiara along with the late Queen’s Greville Chandelier earrings.
Our evening’s culinary creations were highlighted first by a seasonal appetizer showcasing the loveliest of summer vegetables hand-picked from Le Manoir’s beautiful gardens. Guests feasted on an entrée featuring supreme Rhug Estate chicken accompanied by Norfolk asparagus and tarragon cream. For dessert, they enjoyed an iced blackcurrant parfait, layered on a blackcurrent-soaked sponge with an elderflower jelly.
When he arrived in Washington for the banquet, King Charles III gave an eloquent toast that emphasized the deep historical ties that bind our two nations together. He stated, “For centuries our citizens have admired each other, amused each other, and imitated each other. We have exchanged ideas, fashions and music.” He recalled with delight their recent trip to France, just as thankful for the warm reception they received as the French were for the occasion.
“As we dine here in this ancient place, redolent with our shared history, allow me to propose a toast to France and our new Entente. An Entente not only past and present, but for the future – and no longer just cordiale, but now amicale.” – King Charles III
The evening’s entertainment featured musical selections by the Duchess of Edinburgh’s String Orchestra, which included compositions from renowned artists such as Saint-Saëns, Bizet, Debussy, and even Daft Punk.
Even before hitting the stage, Prince William and Princess Kate demonstrated their enthusiasm for the event. “Ready for what promises to be a wonderful State Banquet this evening in Windsor,” they remarked.
