Earlier this week the Party Pieces website published an interview with Kate Middleton where she discussed fond memories from her childhood. Party Pieces is, incidently, a company that her family runs so it was no big scoop for them. The interview was removed not long after but when it was picked up by the media and other royal blogs it spread like wildfire with opinions ranging from it being charming to pure Middleton propoganda.
Although this has been touted as her first 'interview' Kate made no great revelations. It was not so much the answers as what they revealed about her. Up to this point we've only 'known' Kate as the girlfriend of Prince William. Other than a brief comment she made on a video while visiting a marketing seminar, we had never heard her speak for herself. In the absence of any concrete proof, people have projected their views, in some cases, making her far more diabolical and manipulative than she might be in real life.
It's hard to see her as diabolical when she reveals her favorite food is jelly and her favorite outfit was a pair of clown dungarees. And that's quite possibly the intent, although I'm certain Kate could find better uses of her time than to answer back to her detractors. It doesn't hurt her parent's company. You can't buy the amount of publicity Party Pieces received by putting the interview out there. If no one knew about the company beforehand, they certainly do now.
The interview itself doesn't hurt Kate either. It is a way for her to get herself out there and the royal family cannot say anything about it. Speaking to the media has jettisoned many a previous royal girlfriend but she doesn't mention the royal family or even Prince William. Unlike Diana's infamous Panorama interview, this one is hardly likely to come back to haunt her.
Using the media to advantage is nothing new to the royal family. Diana elevated it to an art form, starting with her image even before her engagement. The demure behavior and posing with small children gave a pleasant impression, even if she looked nothing like Princess material. The only thing missing from Kate's interview was if she'd been pictured holding a small child while answering. She has clearly taken a page out of Diana's play-book.
Kate's interview is no longer posted on the Party Pieces online magazine, The Party Times. It's difficult to understand the reason why that is but there's a lot of speculation. Regardless, it stayed up long enough to hit the mark.
However you want to define it.
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Thursday, April 01, 2010
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Are we becoming one with the royals?
Princess Anne waiting in line for a brew? Or taking the train? Whats next? The Queen will be using the stairs? Or Prince Charles will be squeezing his own toothpaste?
These actions alone prove that we are becoming one with the royals. At the end of the day we all need refreshments and to get from point A to point B. What we imbibe and how we travel to our destination isn't as important as when the royals do it. These mundane actions take on a special, magical, outerworldly glow. As if the mode of transport runs more efficiently, or the beer tastes better, or the stairs are less steep once the royals proceed forward.
Who knew that Princess Anne could get thirsty? Or that the Queen can still walk up stairs? We Canadian's aren't normally as solicitous with our own aged family members so consider Nova Scotia's concern for Her Majesty as a compliment. Yes, the Queen can walk up stairs, or downstairs, or sit or stand, or do any of the other myriad things mortals do. Did you know she even sneezes? (Spoiler alert! As do many of her family members).
We drink therefore we must be like the royals. We take the same form of transport therefore we must be like them too. At this rate,they will not have come down to us, we will have caught up to them. Ultimately, they envy and want to be like us! Otherwise, why would they make all of these person of the people moves?
Why, every day, every action you take. Right now. You, are acting like a royal. Reading? They do it too. Snacking? They get hungry as well. Watching TV? Where do you think they learn to be like us? You'd almost think we were one and the same except for the titles part.
It's a burden living an extraordinary life in ordinary circumstances. No matter how many books they may read or movies they watch, the royals can never truly appreciate our experience. Day in and day out the waking, showering, eating, working, playing and sleeping. They will never understand because we make it look effortless.
But when they try to act like us it's not a big deal.
Really, it isn't.
© Marilyn Braun 2010
These actions alone prove that we are becoming one with the royals. At the end of the day we all need refreshments and to get from point A to point B. What we imbibe and how we travel to our destination isn't as important as when the royals do it. These mundane actions take on a special, magical, outerworldly glow. As if the mode of transport runs more efficiently, or the beer tastes better, or the stairs are less steep once the royals proceed forward.
Who knew that Princess Anne could get thirsty? Or that the Queen can still walk up stairs? We Canadian's aren't normally as solicitous with our own aged family members so consider Nova Scotia's concern for Her Majesty as a compliment. Yes, the Queen can walk up stairs, or downstairs, or sit or stand, or do any of the other myriad things mortals do. Did you know she even sneezes? (Spoiler alert! As do many of her family members).
We drink therefore we must be like the royals. We take the same form of transport therefore we must be like them too. At this rate,they will not have come down to us, we will have caught up to them. Ultimately, they envy and want to be like us! Otherwise, why would they make all of these person of the people moves?
Why, every day, every action you take. Right now. You, are acting like a royal. Reading? They do it too. Snacking? They get hungry as well. Watching TV? Where do you think they learn to be like us? You'd almost think we were one and the same except for the titles part.
It's a burden living an extraordinary life in ordinary circumstances. No matter how many books they may read or movies they watch, the royals can never truly appreciate our experience. Day in and day out the waking, showering, eating, working, playing and sleeping. They will never understand because we make it look effortless.
But when they try to act like us it's not a big deal.
Really, it isn't.
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Saturday, March 27, 2010
The Royal Report for Sunday March 28, 2010 - The End of Hope Episode
Royal engagements are traditionally announced at the beginning of the year. With March almost at a close and no royal engagement for Prince William and Kate Middleton. A Salute to the End of Hope for a 2010 engagement.
You can listen to the episode here.
Publications mentioned
Hello! Canada Weekly No 167 29 March 2010
From My Royal Collection
The Royals by Caroline Latham & Jeannie Sakol
Blogs mentioned
World of Royalty Blog
Tune in to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday April 11, 2010 at 9:00PM EST (North America).
The topic will be: Crown Jewels
© Marilyn Braun 2010
You can listen to the episode here.
Publications mentioned
Hello! Canada Weekly No 167 29 March 2010
From My Royal Collection
The Royals by Caroline Latham & Jeannie Sakol
Blogs mentioned
World of Royalty Blog
Tune in to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday April 11, 2010 at 9:00PM EST (North America).
The topic will be: Crown Jewels
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Saturday, March 20, 2010
The Royal Report for Sunday March 21, 2010 - Is Kate Middleton a public figure?
Kate Middleton, girlfriend of Prince William, recently won a settlement from the REX photo agency for photos taken of her that invaded her privacy. Does Kate have a right to privacy? By dating Prince William, has she become a public figure?
Listen to the episode here
Publications mentioned
Hello! Canada Weekly No 166 22 March 2010
Snowdon: The Biography by Anne De Courcy
From My Royal Collection
The British Royal Family - Great Front Pages
Blogs mentioned
British Royal Wedding
Tune in live to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday March 28, 2010 at 9:00PM EST North America.
The topic will be: With royal engagements traditionally announced early in the year, the month of March is drawing to a close with no engagement announcement. On this episode: A salute to the end of hope for a 2010 engagement.
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Listen to the episode here
Publications mentioned
Hello! Canada Weekly No 166 22 March 2010
Snowdon: The Biography by Anne De Courcy
From My Royal Collection
The British Royal Family - Great Front Pages
Blogs mentioned
British Royal Wedding
Tune in live to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday March 28, 2010 at 9:00PM EST North America.
The topic will be: With royal engagements traditionally announced early in the year, the month of March is drawing to a close with no engagement announcement. On this episode: A salute to the end of hope for a 2010 engagement.
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Royal Review: Diana Style by Colin McDowell
I must have at least a dozen books about Diana's fashions. One dating from as early as 1985 to this one. A dearth of these books came out after the princess died in 1997 when people tried to make sense of her legacy or cash in on the timing.In the decade or so since her death, Diana Style by Colin McDowell
One thing that it most remarked about Diana was her personal appearance. Although she tried to downplay this when it came to promoting serious causes, it was an undeniable fact. She used the clothes she wore to communicate. Whether it was velvet for a visit to a school for the blind, red to convey confidence, length to respect cultural differences, or a dress with embroidered falcons to compliment the ruling house of Saudi Arabia. Her fashion choices were deliberate and flawlessly executed.
This book discusses the evolution of her style from the infamous black dress she wore to her first evening engagement prior to her marriage. To the equally infamous black revenge dress, she wore on the night that Prince Charles admitted he had committed adultery. These dresses, worn respectively in 1981 and 1994 act as bookends to her royal life. But the story does not end there, as it evolves even further to cover her fashions up to her death.
At the time of her death I believe that Diana was just coming into her own, fashion wise. Gone were the pie crust collars, veiled hats, head-to-toe outfit colors, and lacquered hair. In its place, figure flattering Versace dresses, simpler make-up and more natural looking hair. While I loved the simplicity of her later dresses, towards the end of her life, I found her face looked hard and high maintenance. Gone was the romantic, youthful freshness of her early married life. Even if some of her outfits have not stood the test of time, I still prefer the early Diana.
This book is a manual of a royal woman discovering herself and her style. It freeze frames Diana's fashions throughout her career, the good and the bad, from head to toe. While we'll never know just how Diana's fashions would have evolved, this is a good reminder of a royal style icon in the making
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Saturday, March 13, 2010
The Royal Report for Sunday March 14, 2010 - Royal Jewels
They're shiny, they're priceless, they're an object of fascination. On this episode I discuss Royal Jewels.
Listen to the episode here
Films mentioned
Royal Journey (1951)
Canada at the Coronation
From my royal collection
All about the royal family - An illustrated guide compiled and researched by Pheobe Hichens
Blog Posts mentioned
Royal Engagements
Jewels fit for a Queen
Resources used to research this episode
The Queen's Jewels - The Personal Collection of Elizabeth II - by Leslie Field
The Royal Jewels by Suzy Menkes
Tiaras a History of Spendor by Geoffrey C Munn
Queens Jewels by Vincent Meylan
Tune in live to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday March 21, 2010 at 9:00PM EST (North America)
The topic will be: Is Kate Middleton a public figure?
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Listen to the episode here
Films mentioned
Royal Journey (1951)
Canada at the Coronation
From my royal collection
All about the royal family - An illustrated guide compiled and researched by Pheobe Hichens
Blog Posts mentioned
Royal Engagements
Jewels fit for a Queen
Resources used to research this episode
The Queen's Jewels - The Personal Collection of Elizabeth II - by Leslie Field
The Royal Jewels by Suzy Menkes
Tiaras a History of Spendor by Geoffrey C Munn
Queens Jewels by Vincent Meylan
Tune in live to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday March 21, 2010 at 9:00PM EST (North America)
The topic will be: Is Kate Middleton a public figure?
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Sunday, March 07, 2010
The Royal Report for Sunday March 7, 2010 - Royal Fashions
What do King Edward VII, Queen Alexandra, King Edward VIII, Princess Margaret and Princess Diana have in common? They set fashion trends.
Find out about these leaders of royal fashion by listening to this episode
Publications mentioned
Hello! Canada Weekly No 164 8 March 2010
Majesty Magazine January 2010 Vol 31 No 1
From my royal collection
Royal Style Wars - The trend setting fashion feud between the Princess of Wales and the Duchess of York by Lesley Ebbetts
Resources used to research this episode
Diana The Fashion Princess Davina Hanmer & Tim Graham
Royalty in Vogue by Josephine Ross
The Princess of Wales Fashion Handbook by Sue James
Princess Diana's Maternity Fashion and Nursery Handbook by Sue James
A Family Album by The Duke of Windsor
Diana Style by Colin McDowell
The Windsor Style by Suzy Menkes
Tune in live to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday March 14, 2010 at 9:00PM EST (North America)
The topic will be: Royal Jewels
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Find out about these leaders of royal fashion by listening to this episode
Publications mentioned
Hello! Canada Weekly No 164 8 March 2010
Majesty Magazine January 2010 Vol 31 No 1
From my royal collection
Royal Style Wars - The trend setting fashion feud between the Princess of Wales and the Duchess of York by Lesley Ebbetts
Resources used to research this episode
Diana The Fashion Princess Davina Hanmer & Tim Graham
Royalty in Vogue by Josephine Ross
The Princess of Wales Fashion Handbook by Sue James
Princess Diana's Maternity Fashion and Nursery Handbook by Sue James
A Family Album by The Duke of Windsor
Diana Style by Colin McDowell
The Windsor Style by Suzy Menkes
Tune in live to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday March 14, 2010 at 9:00PM EST (North America)
The topic will be: Royal Jewels
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Saturday, February 27, 2010
The Royal Report for Sunday February 28, 2010 - Royal Love Stories: Princess Margaret and Peter Townsend
She was the Princess Diana of her day, he was a dashing divorced war veteran. When they fell in love, Princess Margaret would be made to choose between her royal title and lifestyle and the man she loved -Peter Townsend. This is their story.
Listen to their story here.
Publications discussed
Hello! Canada Weekly No 163 1 March 2010
From My Royal Collection
Dinner at Buckingham Palace by Charles Oliver
Blogs mentioned
World of Royalty Blog
Resources used to research this episode
The Little Princesses by Marion Crawford
Time and Chance: An autobiography by Peter Townsend
Royal Sisters by Anne Edwards
Princess Margaret: A Biography by Theo Aronson
Tune in to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday March 7th, 2010 at 9:00PM EST (North America).
The topic will be: Royal Fashions - The good, the bad, and everything in between!
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Listen to their story here.
Publications discussed
Hello! Canada Weekly No 163 1 March 2010
From My Royal Collection
Dinner at Buckingham Palace by Charles Oliver
Blogs mentioned
World of Royalty Blog
Resources used to research this episode
The Little Princesses by Marion Crawford
Time and Chance: An autobiography by Peter Townsend
Royal Sisters by Anne Edwards
Princess Margaret: A Biography by Theo Aronson
Tune in to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday March 7th, 2010 at 9:00PM EST (North America).
The topic will be: Royal Fashions - The good, the bad, and everything in between!
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Saturday, February 20, 2010
The Royal Report for Sunday February 21, 2010 - Royal Love Stories: Edward and Wallis
Argubly the most tragic and romantic of royal love stories. He was the most dashing public figure of his day. She was a twice married American born out of wedlock. He gave up his throne for her and changed the course of royal history.
Listen to their story here.
Publications mentioned
Hello! Canada Weekly No 162 22 February 2010
Film mentioned
The Duchess
From my royal collection
Rock and Royalty by Gianni Versace
Resources used to research this episode
King Edward VIII by Philip Ziegler
The Windsor Years by Lord Kinross
Edward VIII The Road to Abdication by Frances Donaldson
The Heart has its reasons by The Duchess of Windsor
A King's Story The Memoirs of H.R.H. The Duke of Windsor
The Secret Life of The Duchess of Windsor by Charles Higham
Wallis & Edward Letters 1931-1937 - The intimate correspondence of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor by Michael Bloch
Tune in to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday February 28, 2010 at 9:00PM EST (North America).
The topic will be: She was the Princess Diana of her day, he was a dashing divorced war veteran. When they fell in love, Princess Margaret would be made to choose between her royal title and lifestyle and the man she loved - Peter Townsend. This is their story.
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Listen to their story here.
Publications mentioned
Hello! Canada Weekly No 162 22 February 2010
Film mentioned
The Duchess
From my royal collection
Rock and Royalty by Gianni Versace
Resources used to research this episode
King Edward VIII by Philip Ziegler
The Windsor Years by Lord Kinross
Edward VIII The Road to Abdication by Frances Donaldson
The Heart has its reasons by The Duchess of Windsor
A King's Story The Memoirs of H.R.H. The Duke of Windsor
The Secret Life of The Duchess of Windsor by Charles Higham
Wallis & Edward Letters 1931-1937 - The intimate correspondence of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor by Michael Bloch
Tune in to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday February 28, 2010 at 9:00PM EST (North America).
The topic will be: She was the Princess Diana of her day, he was a dashing divorced war veteran. When they fell in love, Princess Margaret would be made to choose between her royal title and lifestyle and the man she loved - Peter Townsend. This is their story.
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Friday, February 19, 2010
Prince William's Hairy Situation
King Edward VII enjoyed a good meal and was called 'tum tum'. Prince Charles has his ears. Diana had her nose - when anyone decided to notice. Now Prince William has his hair - computer generated on the cover of Hello! in this case.
It's not secret that William has a bald spot, like his father. Royal reporters, with nothing better to report on other than his relationship with Kate and his resemblance to his mother, will pick on the regal thinning bean. It's a good way to take the royal golden boy down a notch. Until his early twenties, William had everything going for him. The standard bearer for Diana's memory, he could do no wrong.
And then he had the nerve to get older.
As a child he bore a striking resemblance to his maternal grandfather - Earl Spencer - and like his brother, as he gets older he becomes less Windsor and more Spencer. Not necessarily a bad thing. With the exception of Prince Philip, the royals do not age well. Case in point - Look at a picture of Prince 'Randy Andy' Andrew in his heyday and one taken now. I rest my case.
But in this day and age anything can be changed with the click of a button. Size 0 models can be made to look even thinner, Joan Collins can be made to look like she's 40 something (she's 77), William can be given a full head of hair. Could Tiger Wood's reputation be next? If not, he could be made to look better trying to salvage it.
Like the rest of us mere mortals, William obviously has a vain-streak. It's only natural, as a public figure, to want to appear in the best light. If he wants his hair electronically enhanced then I say go for it! However, if he wanted all of us to ignore the issue then he's gone about it the wrong way. Like a mole on someone's face. When they try to hide it then you notice it more.
Maybe William could try to make amends to all of those men who get toupees and hair transplants. Start a charity? Become a patron of a pre-existing one? Camp out at a hair salon amongst over priced products to highlight the issue? Lamblast Hello! like Kate Winslet did a few years ago when the UK edition of GQ shaved a few inches off her waist?
If this is supposed to be the 'real' Prince William, maybe it's time for him to stand up and embrace reality. Or maybe it's time for the media to give it a rest.
© Marilyn Braun 2010
It's not secret that William has a bald spot, like his father. Royal reporters, with nothing better to report on other than his relationship with Kate and his resemblance to his mother, will pick on the regal thinning bean. It's a good way to take the royal golden boy down a notch. Until his early twenties, William had everything going for him. The standard bearer for Diana's memory, he could do no wrong.
And then he had the nerve to get older.
As a child he bore a striking resemblance to his maternal grandfather - Earl Spencer - and like his brother, as he gets older he becomes less Windsor and more Spencer. Not necessarily a bad thing. With the exception of Prince Philip, the royals do not age well. Case in point - Look at a picture of Prince 'Randy Andy' Andrew in his heyday and one taken now. I rest my case.
But in this day and age anything can be changed with the click of a button. Size 0 models can be made to look even thinner, Joan Collins can be made to look like she's 40 something (she's 77), William can be given a full head of hair. Could Tiger Wood's reputation be next? If not, he could be made to look better trying to salvage it.
Like the rest of us mere mortals, William obviously has a vain-streak. It's only natural, as a public figure, to want to appear in the best light. If he wants his hair electronically enhanced then I say go for it! However, if he wanted all of us to ignore the issue then he's gone about it the wrong way. Like a mole on someone's face. When they try to hide it then you notice it more.
Maybe William could try to make amends to all of those men who get toupees and hair transplants. Start a charity? Become a patron of a pre-existing one? Camp out at a hair salon amongst over priced products to highlight the issue? Lamblast Hello! like Kate Winslet did a few years ago when the UK edition of GQ shaved a few inches off her waist?
If this is supposed to be the 'real' Prince William, maybe it's time for him to stand up and embrace reality. Or maybe it's time for the media to give it a rest.
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Sunday, February 14, 2010
The Royal Report for Sunday February 14, 2010 - Bertie and Elizabeth - A Love Story
He was the reluctant King. When he proposed, she turned him down three times! This is their love story.
Listen to the episode here.
Publications mentioned
Hello! Canada Weekly No 161 15 February 2010
From My Royal Collection
Princess Diana's Maternity Fashion & Nursery Handbook
Resources used to research this episode
Elizabeth The Queen Mother by Hugo Vickers
The Queen Mother by Hugo Vickers
The Last Great Edwardian Lady by Ingrid Seward
Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother - The Official Biography by William Shawcross
George VI by Sarah Bradford
Five Gold Rings A Royal Wedding Souvenir Album
King George VI and Queen Elizabeth by Frances Donaldson
Tune in to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday February 21, 2010 at 9:00PM EST (North America).
The topic will be: Wallis and Edward - A Love Story
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Listen to the episode here.
Publications mentioned
Hello! Canada Weekly No 161 15 February 2010
From My Royal Collection
Princess Diana's Maternity Fashion & Nursery Handbook
Resources used to research this episode
Elizabeth The Queen Mother by Hugo Vickers
The Queen Mother by Hugo Vickers
The Last Great Edwardian Lady by Ingrid Seward
Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother - The Official Biography by William Shawcross
George VI by Sarah Bradford
Five Gold Rings A Royal Wedding Souvenir Album
King George VI and Queen Elizabeth by Frances Donaldson
Tune in to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday February 21, 2010 at 9:00PM EST (North America).
The topic will be: Wallis and Edward - A Love Story
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Friday, February 05, 2010
The Royal Report for Sunday February 7, 2010 - Queen Victoria and Prince Albert - A Love Story
She gave her name to an era. When he died she mourned him for the rest of her life. This is their story.
To listen to this episode click here.
Publications mentioned
Hello! Canada Weekly No. 160. 8 February 2010
From my Royal Collection
The Princess Diana Paper Doll Book of Fashion by Clarissa Harlowe and Mary Anne Bedford. Illustrated by Dona Granata.
Books used for researching this episode:
Britain's Royal Bridges by Josie Argy and Wendy Riches
Five Gold Rings A royal wedding souvenir album
Two Centuries of Royal Weddings by Christofer Warwick
The Life and Times of Victoria by Dorothy Marshall
Royal Weddings by Friederike Haedecke and Julia Melchior
Victoria - A celebration by Deborah Jaffe
The Young Victoria by Alison Plowden
Queen Victoria an eminent Illustrated Biography by Lytton Strachey
Tune in to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday February 14, 2010 at 9:00PM EST (North America).
The topic will be: King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother - A Love Story
© Marilyn Braun 2010
To listen to this episode click here.
Publications mentioned
Hello! Canada Weekly No. 160. 8 February 2010
From my Royal Collection
The Princess Diana Paper Doll Book of Fashion by Clarissa Harlowe and Mary Anne Bedford. Illustrated by Dona Granata.
Books used for researching this episode:
Britain's Royal Bridges by Josie Argy and Wendy Riches
Five Gold Rings A royal wedding souvenir album
Two Centuries of Royal Weddings by Christofer Warwick
The Life and Times of Victoria by Dorothy Marshall
Royal Weddings by Friederike Haedecke and Julia Melchior
Victoria - A celebration by Deborah Jaffe
The Young Victoria by Alison Plowden
Queen Victoria an eminent Illustrated Biography by Lytton Strachey
Tune in to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday February 14, 2010 at 9:00PM EST (North America).
The topic will be: King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother - A Love Story
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Wednesday, February 03, 2010
Question: Does Prince Charles own a yacht?
I read a news article that said prince charles and camilla rented a yacht to travel thru the caribbean some time ago but also read an article that said president bill clinton was on ' prince charles yacht in 1992 for Rio conference on enviromental protection '. so I was wondering if he owns a yacht or just rents one from time to time?
As far as I'm aware, Prince Charles does not own a yacht. The Royal Family did, at one point, have the use of the Royal Yacht Britannia to entertain dignitaries over the years including Sir Winston Churchill, Rajiv Ghandi, Nelson Mandela, Bill Clinton, Boris Yeltsin, Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher. This yacht was decommissioned in 1997.
Prince Charles has chartered or been lent the use of a yacht in the past. In 1991 he was loaned the Alexandros by Greek shipping magnate John Latsis. This was for a reported 'second honeymoon' with his then wife, Diana Princess of Wales. He also used the yacht in 2002 for a cruise with Camilla Parker Bowles. In 2008 he chartered one of the most expensive private yachts, the £50 million, 245ft Leander from car parks tycoon Sir Donald Gosling for an official tour of the Carribean Islands. The first time since the Royal Yacht Britannia was scrapped in 1997 that a member of the Royal Family has hired a private vessel for an official overseas visit.
According to Clarence House, the Prince of Wales chartered the yacht not for reasons of comfort but but to minimize his carbon footprint. If you're going to be environmentally friendly, might as well do it in style.
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
The Royal & The Clueless - Episode 18
On the last episode of The Royal and The Clueless, Kate Middleton and her smouldering co-worker Enrique went shopping in the hopes of getting Prince William's attention. Kate, left behind on William's tour of New Zealand and Australia, follows the coverage intently, especially after William makes a telling remark. Kate rushes over to Enrique with the newspaper in hand.
Kate: Look Enrique, William accepted gifts for me from the crowd! And when one woman asked him whether he would be getting married soon he said 'Wait and See'! Oh, let's go shopping for a wedding dress!
Delighted, Kate twirls around and looks off into the dreamy distance as Enrique continues reading.
Enrique: Wait. A day later William was asked what he wanted for lunch and he said 'wait and see'.
Kate: Well, he's always been somewhat indecisive. But he still said 'wait and see' for marriage plans...
Enrique: You mean he can't even decide what he wants for lunch?
Kate: Yes, sometimes it's best not to give William too many choices. He tends to get overwhelmed. One time, we went out to a club and he couldn't decide what he wanted to drink. We didn't get out of there until 2:00AM.
Enrique: And you actually want to marry this guy?
Kate looks anxious, her brow furrowed and her lips forming a pout.
Kate: He has to make up his mind at some point..this can't go on forever...can it?
Enrique gets up and goes to Kate, holding her close.
Enrique: You deserve better, Kate. Run away with me, you know you want to.
Just then Prince William comes to Kate's home bearing gifts he was given on his tour. He sees Kate in Enrique's clutches.
William: Kate!
Kate: William!
Enrique: Kate!
Kate looks at William and then at Enrique, then back at William.
Will Kate be forced to choose between William and Enrique? Will Enrique be written out for making things too complicated...
Enrique: Hey....
Wait and see on the next episode of The Royal & The Clueless
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Question: The Queen's Personal Flag
Last week on television I caught a brief glimpse of old footage of the Royal Family on the balcony at Buckingham Palace, under the balcony was a large banner with Royal Insignia. The banner was blue and it had various insignia, mostly round, and it looked like the banner was in embroidery and goldwork. Do you know anything about this banner?
It sounds like you're referring to the Personal Flag of Queen Elizabeth II. This particular flag was created in 1960, It was flown for the first time on the BOAC Britannia in which she landed at Delhi airport on January 21, 1961. The personal flag consists of the initial 'E' ensigned with the Royal crown, surrounded by a chaplet of roses. The design is in gold (or yellow) on a blue field and the flag is fringed with gold (or yellow).
The Queen has standards for her various realms. The Royal Standard, which is flown whenever she is in residence at one of her Royal palaces, her car on official journeys and her aircraft - when on the ground. The Royal standard represents not only the Sovereign but also the United Kingdom. Her personal flag is meant to symbolize her as an individual instead of associating her with her role as sovereign of any commonwealth realm. This is personal to her alone and cannot be flown by any other individual. Her personal flag is flown from any building, ship, car or aircraft in which she is staying or travelling.
Although it is not a 'Head of Commonwealth' flag, it has become The Queen's personal Commonwealth flag. A number of Commonwealth countries have adopted their own version of the flag, incorporated to include the country's arms, to be flown as a personal flag when the Queen is visiting their country. Canada's version is at right. It is also flown in non-monarchial Commonwealth countries that have not adopted a personal flag specifically for the Queen.
The design has been adapted - for instance, during her Golden Jubilee celebrations in 2002, a version appeared as a banner on Buckingham Palace (see below). In this case it incorporated the Commonwealth symbol and circles with symbols from her various realms. A fine tribute from the Head of the Commonwealth.
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Sunday, January 24, 2010
The Royal Romance Report - Sunday January 24, 2010
On this episode: Which royal family is having more fun than the British one? What does the Queen taste like in jellybean form? Can the Monaco royals escape the Grimaldi curse?
Listen to this episode to find out.
Publications mentioned
Hello! Canada weekly No 158 25 January 2010
Royal Confinements by Jack Dewhurst
Blogs mentioned
The Royal Twist
There will be no show next week. The Royal Report will return on Sunday February 7th, 2010 9:00PM EST - Topic to be determined.
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Listen to this episode to find out.
Publications mentioned
Hello! Canada weekly No 158 25 January 2010
Royal Confinements by Jack Dewhurst
Blogs mentioned
The Royal Twist
There will be no show next week. The Royal Report will return on Sunday February 7th, 2010 9:00PM EST - Topic to be determined.
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Question: Prince William's Cloak
During his recent tour of New Zealand, Prince William was photographed wearing a cloak with feathers. Can you tell me the significance of it?
The cloak that Prince William is wearing is made from kiwi feathers called a korowai. It is also referred to as a kahu kiwi - the most prestigious form of kahu huruhuru (feather cloak). Kiwi's are the national symbol of New Zealand and the feathers are particularly important to the Maori, who traditionally believe that they are under the protection of the Tane Mahuta, god of the forest. The feathers are used for ceremonial cloaks, which denote status, identifying the owner as a chief or someone of great prestige and position. It is a gift granted only to people of high rank and is highly prized as a family and personal heirloom. Some believe that the cloak becomes empowered by the mana (status) of its owner and the mana increases when it is worn.
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Saturday, January 16, 2010
The Royal Report for Sunday January 17, 2010 - Could 2010 be William and Kate's year?
Is there a succession crisis on the horizon? What unusual souvenir request did Prince William receive? Did Barbara Cartland really write a book about Royal weddings?
Listen to the episode to find out.
Publications mentioned
Hello! Canada Weekly No 157 18 January 2010
Romantic Royal Marriages by Barbara Cartland
Documents mentioned
Official site of the Prince of Wales - List of gifts given to TRH Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall during overseas tours during 2009
Tune in LIVE to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday January 24, 2010 at 9:00PM EST (North America).
The topic will be: The Royal Romance Report - January 2010 edition
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Listen to the episode to find out.
Publications mentioned
Hello! Canada Weekly No 157 18 January 2010
Romantic Royal Marriages by Barbara Cartland
Documents mentioned
Official site of the Prince of Wales - List of gifts given to TRH Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall during overseas tours during 2009
Tune in LIVE to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday January 24, 2010 at 9:00PM EST (North America).
The topic will be: The Royal Romance Report - January 2010 edition
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Sunday, January 10, 2010
The Royal Report for Sunday January 10, 2010 - Kate Middleton vs Chelsy Davy
Will Prince Charles ever be king? How old was Prince William when he first went to Australia? Can Prince Harry's crown jewels save the monarchy? Who are Kate Middleton and Chelsy Davy?
Listen to the episode to find out!
Publications mentioned:
Hello! Canada Special Holiday Edition - Best of the Decade No 156 11 January 2010
The Queen's Jewels - The personal collection of Elizabeth II - by Leslie Field
Blogs mentioned
British Royal Wedding
Tune in LIVE to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday January 17, 2010 at 9:00PM EST (North America)
The topic will be: Will 2010 be William and Kate's year?
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Listen to the episode to find out!
Publications mentioned:
Hello! Canada Special Holiday Edition - Best of the Decade No 156 11 January 2010
The Queen's Jewels - The personal collection of Elizabeth II - by Leslie Field
Blogs mentioned
British Royal Wedding
Tune in LIVE to the next episode of The Royal Report on Sunday January 17, 2010 at 9:00PM EST (North America)
The topic will be: Will 2010 be William and Kate's year?
© Marilyn Braun 2010
Friday, January 01, 2010
Royal Wedding Months
While researching a recent episode of my show, The Royal Report, I noticed that I haven't written a blog post about the months that royal weddings have been held on. Since Queen Victoria's time, June and July seems to be the most popular months to hold them.
January
Princess Victoria, Princess Royal & Prince Frederick William of Prussia - January 25,1858
George, The Earl of St Andrews & Sylvana Tomaselli - January 9, 1988
Prince Alfred, Duke of Edinburg & Grand Duchess Maria Alexandrovna of Russia - January 23, 1874
February
Queen Victoria and Prince Albert - February 10, 1840
Princess Mary, Princess Royal and Viscount Lascelles - February 28, 1922
Princess Patricia of Connaught & The Hon. Alexander Ramsay - February 27, 1919
March
King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra - March 10, 1863
Princess Louise and Marquess of Lorne - March 21, 1871
Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught & Princess Margurite of Prussia - March 13, 1879
April
Princess Alexandra of Kent & Angus Ogilvy - April 24, 1963
King George VI & Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother - April 26, 1923
Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles - April 9, 2005
Prince Leopold, Duke of Albany & Princess Helena of Waldeck and Pyrmont - April 27, 1882
May
Peter Philips and Autumn Kelly - May 17, 2008
Princess Margaret & Antony Armstrong Jones - May 6, 1960
June
Prince Edward, Duke of Kent and Katherine Worsley - June 8, 1961
Prince Edward and Sophie Rhys Jones - June 19, 1999
Duke of Windsor and Wallis Simpson - June 3, 1937
Prince Richard and Birgitte van Deurs - June 8, 1972
Prince Michael of Kent & Marie-Christine von Reibnitz - June 30, 1978
Alexander, Earl of Ulster & Claire Booth - June 22, 2002
July
Princess Alice & Prince Louise of Hesse and by Rhine - July 1, 1862
Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer - July 29, 1981
Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson - July 23, 1986
King George V and Queen Mary - July 6, 1893
Lady Sarah Armstrong Jones & Daniel Chatto - July 14, 1994
Lady Helen Windsor & Tim Taylor - July 18, 1992
Princess Beatrice & Prince Henry of Battenburg - July 23, 1885
Lady Davina Windsor & Gary Lewis - July 31, 2004
Lady Rose Windsor & George Gilman - July 19, 2008
August
There have been no notable royal weddings in this month
September
There have been no notable royal weddings in this month
October
Princess Alice of Battenburg & Prince Andrew of Greece - October 6, 1903
David Linley & Serena Stanhope - October 8, 1993
Lord Nicholas Windsor & Paola Doimi de Lupis Frankopan October 19, 2006 (Civil Ceremony)
November
The Queen and Prince Philip - November 20, 1947
Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester & Lady Alice Montagu-Douglas Scott - November 6, 1935
Prince George, Duke of Kent & Princess Marina of Greece - November 29, 1934
Princess Anne and Mark Philips - November 14, 1973
Lord Nicholas Windsor & Paola Doimi di Delupis de Frankopan - November 4, 2006 (Religious Ceremony)
December
Princess Anne, The Princess Royal & Timothy Laurence - December 12, 1992
© Marilyn Braun 2009
January
Princess Victoria, Princess Royal & Prince Frederick William of Prussia - January 25,1858
George, The Earl of St Andrews & Sylvana Tomaselli - January 9, 1988
Prince Alfred, Duke of Edinburg & Grand Duchess Maria Alexandrovna of Russia - January 23, 1874
February
Queen Victoria and Prince Albert - February 10, 1840
Princess Mary, Princess Royal and Viscount Lascelles - February 28, 1922
Princess Patricia of Connaught & The Hon. Alexander Ramsay - February 27, 1919
March
King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra - March 10, 1863
Princess Louise and Marquess of Lorne - March 21, 1871
Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught & Princess Margurite of Prussia - March 13, 1879
April
Princess Alexandra of Kent & Angus Ogilvy - April 24, 1963
King George VI & Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother - April 26, 1923
Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles - April 9, 2005
Prince Leopold, Duke of Albany & Princess Helena of Waldeck and Pyrmont - April 27, 1882
May
Peter Philips and Autumn Kelly - May 17, 2008
Princess Margaret & Antony Armstrong Jones - May 6, 1960
June
Prince Edward, Duke of Kent and Katherine Worsley - June 8, 1961
Prince Edward and Sophie Rhys Jones - June 19, 1999
Duke of Windsor and Wallis Simpson - June 3, 1937
Prince Richard and Birgitte van Deurs - June 8, 1972
Prince Michael of Kent & Marie-Christine von Reibnitz - June 30, 1978
Alexander, Earl of Ulster & Claire Booth - June 22, 2002
July
Princess Alice & Prince Louise of Hesse and by Rhine - July 1, 1862
Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer - July 29, 1981
Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson - July 23, 1986
King George V and Queen Mary - July 6, 1893
Lady Sarah Armstrong Jones & Daniel Chatto - July 14, 1994
Lady Helen Windsor & Tim Taylor - July 18, 1992
Princess Beatrice & Prince Henry of Battenburg - July 23, 1885
Lady Davina Windsor & Gary Lewis - July 31, 2004
Lady Rose Windsor & George Gilman - July 19, 2008
August
There have been no notable royal weddings in this month
September
There have been no notable royal weddings in this month
October
Princess Alice of Battenburg & Prince Andrew of Greece - October 6, 1903
David Linley & Serena Stanhope - October 8, 1993
Lord Nicholas Windsor & Paola Doimi de Lupis Frankopan October 19, 2006 (Civil Ceremony)
November
The Queen and Prince Philip - November 20, 1947
Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester & Lady Alice Montagu-Douglas Scott - November 6, 1935
Prince George, Duke of Kent & Princess Marina of Greece - November 29, 1934
Princess Anne and Mark Philips - November 14, 1973
Lord Nicholas Windsor & Paola Doimi di Delupis de Frankopan - November 4, 2006 (Religious Ceremony)
December
Princess Anne, The Princess Royal & Timothy Laurence - December 12, 1992
© Marilyn Braun 2009
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