The Prince and Princess of Wales travelled to Birmingham today to meet future leaders in the arts and creative industries.
It marks William and Kate's first post-Easter engagement following a month off official duties. With just over a fortnight to go until the Coronation, preparations are underway (in case you missed this week's post covering all we know so far, click here). George, Charlotte and Louis returned to Lambrook earlier this week.
The day began with with a stop at Indian Streatery in Birmingham City Centre.
Led by an all female chef team, the restaurant began as a street stall.
William and Kate had a wonderful time chatting with staff and exchanging jokes and laughs when the Prince was put to work.
Prince William takes a book from an unsuspecting customer :)
Prince William takes a phone booking for a table at an Indian restaurant in Birmingham. pic.twitter.com/WnOMKBkYLH
— Richard Palmer (@RoyalReporter) April 20, 2023
More from the Birmingham Mail:
'Prince William showed his comedic side when he took a customer's phone booking at Indian Streatery this afternoon. He was heard asking the customer: "Maybe half two? Half past two? In about an hour for two people?"
The couple William spoke to were quite taken aback when they heard the future King had arranged their reservation. The Evening Standard reports Vinay Aggarwal and his wife Ankita Gulati had "no idea" William took their call. Vinay said: "It’s pretty amazing and a surprise. I didn’t know at that moment, but it’s a very nice surprise. Obviously I will be telling everyone, it’s not something that happens often. I didn’t recognise his voice at all, this is the first time I was listening to him on the phone, so I genuinely thought someone was taking the booking for me."
The couple donned aprons and made Indian street food.
The Evening Standard also revealed William and Kate told staff they love curries and "secretly" sample dishes all over the country. Kate said the children "love" Indian food, adding she is very partial to "spicy" food herself.
The Princess said she also loves cooking Lebanese food and enjoys a glass of tequila.
Time for a group photo which I expect will take pride of place in the restaurant.
The Prince and Princess visited popular venue The Rectory, located in Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter.
An incredibly warm welcome.
I’m in Birmingham with the Prince and Princess of Wales where William and Kate are celebrating the best of the city’s creative industries, hosting an event at the Rectory pub. @AlisonHammond has popped in too pic.twitter.com/b2GqCawI7O
— Roya Nikkhah (@RoyaNikkhah) April 20, 2023
Crowds lined the streets.
Kate received a number of beautiful bouquets.
The couple met with playwrights, designers and artists to hear about the sector today and the successes and challenges of running a local business.
The Princess chatting with guests at the reception.
They were joined by one of ITV's most talented presenters Alison Hammond.
Alison told the couple "Next time, you need to come to my house so I can cook you a big Jamaican dinner". Alison looked lovely in a red leopard print dress by Yours.
On Instagram, Alison wrote: "These two are everything!".
Afterwards, the couple participated in a game of interactive darts.
The jewellery quarter is home to 700 jewellers and independent retailers.
The hub for artisans and craftspeople produces 40% of all jewellery made in the UK.
More from the official website:
'Described as a national treasure, the Birmingham Jewellery Quarter is a historic and vibrant area in Birmingham with a rich and diverse history.
The Jewellery Quarter’s history with industrialism goas as far back as the early 16th century, with Roger Pemberton establishing one of the first (of many ) jewellery shops in the city. The city and the area within it have been recognised as one of the pioneers of many major technological advancements, with the Industrial Revolution playing a key role in the importance of this area.
The growing prominence of Birmingham in the Industrial Revolution meant more and more workers from all over the country started moving to the city and its suburbs. Most workers started manufacturing metal toys, buttons and pins and by 1780 there were 28 jewellers in the city. This number grew to 400 by 1800, as the demand increased, and by 1850 half of the jewellery sold in London were produced in the Jewellery Quarter'.
The Museum of the Jewellery Quarter is a must-see attraction for visitors to Birmingham.
It's a celebration of creative talent dating back centuries.
The hub offers an opportunity for budding talent and equally for generational businesses to share their products with customers coming from all over the world to shop in the world-famous and trusted Quarter. One such business, Aardvark Jewellery, specialises in the "unique". A family run business operating in Birmingham for almost fifty years, their ethos is to steer away from mass production and to focus on individual, eye-catching pieces. Take a look at their collection on Etsy.
If we have any gentlemen readers in the market for popping the question, the jeweller has quite the selection of sparklers...
Running a creative business is truly a labour of love. I was scrolling through several websites of jewellers in the area and stumbled upon A Typical Thing. The store's owner, Josefina, recently postponed orders due to the passing of her mother in Spain. Made in the UK, Josefina produces delicate, affordable pieces with a focus on recyclable and sustainable materials. I think her pieces would be a perfect fit for the Princess. Click here to visit A Typical Thing.
A wave goodbye from the royals.
I loved Kate's 'merlot' look today. The silhouette of the dress, the eye-catching earrings, the fabulous hair!
The Princess chose a Pleated Midi Trench dress by Karen Millen for the outing (with thanks to UFO No More). Originally priced at £229 before going on sale, it's described as: "Exuding versatility and elegance, the trench dress got a modern update this season. It features a matching waist belt that highlights the figure while the pleated skirt adds alluring movement. The gold buttons and belt detail gives this piece an extra sophistication spin."
The dress is available in limited sizing in black (here) and camel (here).
Kate wore her burgundy suede Gianvito Rossi 105 pumps.
Kate accessorised with her very pretty pair of Sezane Dina earrings in 'ocean blue'.
Kate's necklace appears to be her Daniella Draper citrine piece.
William and Kate departing via train (as shared by KP).
Prince Louis celebrates his fifth birthday on Sunday...which means we can expect new official images Saturday night. I'm anticipating this might be an opportunity for the release of Coronation photos.
Excellent colour for her!
ReplyDeleteYes! The cut though does not do her any favour.
DeleteActually I disagree! I think this style makes her look less thin a little fuller. :)
DeleteI also love the color. I think it's an extremely flattering design ... but could it not be about 10 inches shorter? I miss the swirl of shorter skirts. But very pretty.
ReplyDeleteI agree, Allison ! The dress could have been shorter. I love this color on her.
DeleteLoving this :)
ReplyDeleteI know this is silly but I'm soooo happy to see her in a dress. Not a coat dress or pant suit. But rather a true dress. I have always preferred her dress looks.
ReplyDeleteI agree. I used to want to see her in trousers (albeit not skinny jeans) because she wore them so rarely. But she's worn trousers so much in the last few years(?) that I've switched back to wanting to see her in dresses/skirts. I really like the colour and quite like the cut of this one. Generally I think Kate looks wonderful in herself. Whatever cosmetic procedures she has had have been very skillfully done.
DeleteABCD, What makes you think that Kate has had cosmetic procedures, beyond a good hairdresser and well applied make up? M.
DeleteI was noticing how fabulous she looks and it seems her cheeks have a little extra fullness and less looseness on the side near the mouth. If she had a little work done, good for her! I see no reason for it to be different than other hair and skin care. It's certainly not a criticism to suggest!!
DeleteABCD the selfies have a filter on them. Obviously not her phone.
DeleteIt’s always amusing the defensive reactions when someone thinks the Duchess may do Botox or other cosmetic procedures. She’s never confirmed this, but even if she does get them done so what?! Many, many, many public personas have these little tweaks done. Being constantly in the public eye, I would not blame her. It would not take away from her natural beauty and good qualities. Luisa
DeleteCatherine looked stunning. And they looked very in love. Maybe Catherine put in an order at the jewelry store for their 12th anniversary. That diamond ring looked very nice. Did William get the hint
ReplyDeleteAgreed that this rich wine-red is a terrific color on the Princess. Overall, I like the dress much better than the last Karen Millen dress she wore (in yellow, I think, not my favorite color). I've always been a fan of trench dresses and knife pleats, and this is a nice example of both. My one concern is that the neckline looks slightly insecure, as though it might gape open and reveal one's bra. Otherwise, this is a polished and pretty look.
ReplyDeleteKaren Millen offers a lot of items at reasonable mid-level prices and is always worth a look. Most KM clothing is fairly conventional, but the other day I saw actress Helen Flanagan in a rather amazing tomato-red KM blazer dress, with a knife pleated skirt and one shoulder bared. She wore it to the race meeting at Aintree. It had a very high-fashion look but wasn't remarkably expensive. I bought a bright orange-red coat from KM last year, and it, too, is somewhat unusual in design, while some people might remember the Princess's black and white KM lace skirt that she wore to a wedding before she and Prince William married. I loved that skirt so much I went looking for one like it!
I absolutely love this merlot color! Prince William taking a booking in the Indian restaurant was hilarious!
ReplyDeleteAn unexpected earring choice with a burgundy dress, but I like it. The dress and jewellery looked good on her. I expect she chose the earrings as they have a South Asian style.
ReplyDeleteGreat dress. She looked wonderful. I am not a fan of the earrings, but like everything else about her look. She and William looked to be having a marvelous time and what a great outing of support. Ali
ReplyDeleteLovely! Her skin just glows in these burgundy shades. She and William are both so fun and relaxed.
ReplyDeleteSo true Lori! It's a very good color on her. Wondering if it might be the dress under her burgundy coat she wore at her Christmas special? It's a great style and moves well. Love the photos of them laughing when William took the booking...they are so in tune with each other.
DeleteThey look so joyful, they radiate happiness. I looked up what the person on the other end of William's phone call thought and he said he never realized he was speaking to Prince William. He said he'd have quite the story to tell and so he shall. They also appear to be so very gracious about "selfies"--what souvenirs THOSE people have! Thank you for your explanation of the Jewelry District too. I didn't like the outline of the dress, reminded me of the old style sack dresses but then when Vittoria explained the pleats and the drape I revised my opinion :)
ReplyDeleteI’m seeing two people who have learned to just be themselves and it’s wonderful. The smiles today and the laughs were a joy to see.
ReplyDeleteWhat a fun day! They both looked great. Love her outfit and he looked dapper as well. Such a pretty color dress and a cool style. The phone call was my favorite :) sue from IL
ReplyDeleteGreat to see the Royal couple out today. They look very realaxed after their holiday. That colour looks beautiful on the Princess. I love the dress as well. I didn't think much of these earrings when she wore them at Christmas, they look very nice with her dress. Perfection as always. 👌. S.🙂.
ReplyDeleteThis wine colored dress is divine, I love the design, it has shape, very flattering on the Princess. The skirt has movement and swish. Its great to see her venture into something different, not pants or coat dresses. The jewellery on the other hand is a no. I would have loved to see some jewels of substance. With this color dress, Sapphires earrings and necklace/pendant would have looked fabulous overall. In saying that its wonderful to see the Princess wear a necklace on some occasions she doesn't. Catherine looked engaging and happy, a nice visit. Prince William was in great form. The booking over the phone, was hilarious. He has quick wit and humor, love it.
ReplyDeleteI really like this dress and I like Kate in it. This is just an observation but my initial thought upon seeing it was what a lovely dress for autumn. I guess it’s not a shade I often think of for Spring.
ReplyDeleteOh my gosh! Her hair today is shimmering, bouncing & dancing as she walks. It’s glorious! I love this look, something a little different & perfect for an away day in Birmingham. Prince William’s phone interaction with customers was wonderful - I had the biggest giggle listening to his phone call. I’m heading off to hospital in the next hour for hopefully my last surgery for my Breast Cancer. Feeling a bit nervous & anxious, but I’m so grateful I’m doing well, and managing the side effects of things reasonably well. This wonderful blog & community that Charlotte has created, and my life long love of being a Royal Watcher have been a great distraction from life’s realities … and I’m so excited for the next few weeks & the upcoming Coronation. Sending lots of love to you all, Dee - Adelaide Australia 🇦🇺💕🇦🇺
ReplyDeleteWe’ll keep you in our prayers and send you good wishes! Sue
DeleteDee, when I saw you had posted,I was just going to ask how you and your Husband are doing. I'm glad now that I checked in. It's 2.30am here in Ireland. I will light a candle for you now. My prayers are for you. Think of the holidays that ye have planned. ♥️. S🙂.
DeleteDee, wishing you healing and a complete recovery. May the days ahead be good ones for you. M.
DeleteDee , as we say in the US : You go and kick cancer’s @$$ . Two of my cousins got through breast cancer with surgery and some treatments after. You can too! I will keep you in my thoughts and look at my globe to send you good vibes and prayers.
DeleteAll the best for your last surgery, Dee. Fingers and toes crossed for a very successful operation and outcome. Enjoy the upcoming Coronation. I'm also looking forward to it! Might make some scones to have while watching. Am trying to work out what time it will be broadcast in Australia!
DeleteI am sending you love and prayers for your LAST surgery. The LAST SURGERY, you got this!!!
DeleteThinking of you Dee.
DeleteSending you Love and Wellness 💗♥️💗
DeleteAll the best Dee - hope you are well soon. Thank you for always being positive, despite your own problems. Watching the royals is also my escape.
DeleteDear Dee,
DeleteWhat astonishing courage you have to endure prolonged breast cancer treatment! I see how you are finding places of light in your darkness, and that takes an additional mountain of BRAVE.
Peace and mercy to you as you persevere through what must be a hellish situation. ❤️
I agree that Kate's hair, and even makeup, looked great. Maybe "more natural"? I don't know but she looked good. I sending you lots of love in your journey and tons of hope and good wishes.
DeleteOh you guys … thank you!!!! 💕💕💕💕💕 What lovely messages you all wrote, I had a few emotional tears & you’ve truly made my early morning here in Australia. Things went pretty well, my beautiful surgeon popped in at 8pm, and went through my results. Since my 2nd surgery, the cancer hasn’t spread, and there’s no lymph node involvement. She couldn’t get them quite as perfectly as she wanted - but I think they look wonderful, and when the swelling & bruising has gone down, they’ll be even better. I am so, so grateful & I can’t thank you all enough for your special messages & prayers. As we live through days when social media can be a depressing mess, I’m just so happy to be part of this wonderful community of such caring & truly lovely people. It really does mean a lot. My hubby is continuing to improve, and his Throat Cancer is currently in remission. He’s regained 12kgs, and is slowly regaining his strength by walking our little Cavapoo 30 minutes each day. Faith & positivity have been so important to us both during the past year - and I know we have happier & healthier days ahead. Thank you again to all of you who messaged me, sending the biggest hugs and Aussie love back to you. Here’s to lots of lovely Royal watching in the next few weeks. It’s going to be so exciting. My love, Dee xx
DeleteI am sending love to you Dee❤️ So happy for your positive news.
DeleteWhat beautiful pictures of a wonderful day. Everyone looks terrific, and so happy.
DeleteDee, that's great news. I'm sure you are as beautiful as you always were. Very good news as well about your glands. 🙏 Delighted to hear that your Husband is doing better as well. Keep up the faith, it will carry ye thought this. Wishing you a speedy recovery after your surgery. ♥️. S.🙂.
DeleteContinued prayers for you and more positive news to come!!!🙏🏻♥️
DeleteI’m very happy for you that the news is good. You are both in my prayers
DeleteOh my gosh! Her hair today is shimmering, and classic look for Catharine princess wales the engagement was fun Prince William’s phone interaction with customers was my favorite
ReplyDeleteIt's great to see William and Catherine doing engagements in Birmingham today. I really like Catherine's outfit, she looks beautiful and elegant as always. I can't believe the Coronation is only two weeks away so I can tell it's going to be a busy two weeks for the whole family. -D.S
ReplyDeletePraying all goes well with your surgery, Dee, and that you heal quickly, with no complications. Hope you get to watch the coronation and it gives you a bit of joy in the moment. I always appreciate your cheerful positive comments here on the blog!
ReplyDeleteI'm looking at the pictures again. I think Princess Diana's amethyst earrings would have looked very good with this dress. S🙂.
ReplyDeleteHer hair just isn't even fair. The most beautiful picture of her today is the Instagram one with Allison. I think this is true Kate...and she's beautiful.
ReplyDeleteCompletely agree Tammy!!
DeleteMy word, she looks absolutely beautiful! I love the smiles on them both! Their best asset I must say! Great color on Kate and her hair was glowing and full of bounce and body! Great engagement!!♥️♥️
ReplyDeleteLovely dress, very flattering. Nice engagement, that phone call was hilarious.
ReplyDeleteThe Prince and Princess look like they had a great time ! So much happy and relaxed, both are radiant. This visit is a surprise because I didn't expect to see them before the King's coronation.
ReplyDeleteKate is wonderful, her entire outfit is a success for me. I love this dress and it is a perfect color for her. I would love to see her one day with a little more fun, less classic shoes, but I know it's a sweet dream.
Seriously, these two always make me smile! They truly look like they are having a good time and I would love to be a fly on the wall, because even everybody around them has great big smiles on their faces...let me in on the fun!!!
ReplyDeleteI loved this look. I was unsure about the earrings with the dress but it’s growing on me. I do agree with everyone who said it would be nicer at a shorter length but I’m not hating the longer length either.
ReplyDeleteIt seemed as if they had a wonderful day - Prince William taking a call was quite funny. They do seem much more relaxed, maybe it’s because they just had some time off but whatever it was, they looked good and it was great to see their developing relationships with those who wait to meet them. I also really love that they’re more into taking selfies because I imagine they are prized possessions for someone who waits hours to see them.
Charlotte, I just spotted in your calendar that they will be going to Wales next week. Just as I predicted awhile ago. Something to look forward to. I thought they might travel to Wales for the big lunch on Monday. I hope to see The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh pay a visit to Scotland before the Coronation. S.🙂.
ReplyDeleteA flattering color for her. Love the knife pleat skirt and I like a trench coat style; not in love with those combined. It’s too much going on. They seem to be enjoying this working day.
ReplyDeleteKaren in Virginia
The Prince & The Princess of Wales are such an asset to crown & country!
ReplyDelete