It's the eve of the Coronation and there has been a flurry of activity from members of the Royal family as final preparations take place.
At Buckingham Palace, His Majesty hosted a Realm Governors General and Prime Ministers Lunch.
The King, as monarch of fourteen overseas realms, conducted an audience with the Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese at Buckingham Palace; a video call with Canadian PM Justin Trudeau; an audience with the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Chris Hipkins at Buckingham Palace; audiences with Canadian indigenous leaders Chief Roseanne Archibald, Natan Obed and Natalie Caron; and also the King of the Ashanti, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, and Amazonian indigenous leaders Uyunkar Domingo Peas and Ms Atossa Soltani. Later today, the King will will attend a Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting at Marlborough House.
Th King with PM Rishi Sunak.
The day will come to a close at Buckingham Palace this evening with an engagement for overseas royals and dignitaries.
A hundred Heads of State have descended on London for the historic occasion.
With the big day tomorrow, and though all events have been meticulously planned, it's a time filled with anticipation and a touch of last-minute nerves.
Speaking in Soho yesterday, Kate spoke of her hopes for a well-behaved Louis, telling well-wishers: "We're getting there. I still feel like we're trying to get ducks in a row." The Princess told another lady the family is "excited" but "slightly nervous".
Below, The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh. Sophie looked stylish in the Beulah London Christina dress (with thanks to UFO No More).
Kate and Sophie mingling with guests.
The Princess Royal today.
Caption this :)
It is very much the type of occasion we expect to see the Prince and Princess take a prominent place in now.
You may have noticed Queen Camilla was absent from the luncheon. I understand she is pacing herself for the long weekend. It's easy to forget the King and Queen are in their mid-seventies.
Earlier today, Charles, Camilla and William were spotted at Westminster Abbey for a final rehearsal.
Final rehearsals for the King and Queen Consort at @wabbey this morning. Not long to go now…#Coronation pic.twitter.com/JX2ZEbO6T4
— Sarah Campbell (@SarahCam3) May 5, 2023
After the luncheon, there was a surprise in store for royal watchers.
So pleased to see so many of you looking forward to the Coronation weekend! 👋 pic.twitter.com/4u8SL3AEfK
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) May 5, 2023
How fabulous is this photo of the Prince and Princess of Wales arriving for the walkabout?
Dedicated royalists from all over the world are camping out to have a prime viewing spot for the weekend's celebrations.
The King greets crowds.
The Prince and Princess say "hello".
William discussed his hopes for good weather.
Kate was asked for selfies by people of all ages.
The King joked with well-wishers, "I hope you're not going to be squashed here all night."
'I hope you're not going to be squashed here for the rest of the night.'
— ITV News (@itvnews) May 5, 2023
The King talks to @romillyweeks while greeting well-wishers on the eve of the coronationhttps://t.co/6BIFODHnSP pic.twitter.com/LO9hebjK64
Kate chatted to crowds about a very early start for everyone in the morning.
"It's long hours for everybody..."
— Sky News (@SkyNews) May 5, 2023
The Princess of Wales speaks to royal fans along The Mall telling them she has an "early start" tomorrow, and adds that "everyone has" for the King's coronation.https://t.co/knW5Z9Gjhf
📺 Sky 501, Virgin 602, Freeview 233 and YouTube pic.twitter.com/8vX5K2L2qv
The BBC's video.
King Charles, Prince William and Kate greet crowds in London on The Mall ://bbc.in/3NCKVE4 pic.twitter.com/sCoDxKxz3W
— BBC News (UK) (@BBCNews) May 5, 2023
Kate said "everyone has come from far and wide to be part of this moment".
"We're just going to go wherever the fun is."
— Sky News (@SkyNews) May 5, 2023
The Princess of Wales speaks to well-wishers on The Mall, ahead of the #coronation on Saturday.
Warning: this video contains some flash photography.https://t.co/hULI6v2ePU
📺 Sky 501, Virgin 602, Freeview 233 and YouTube pic.twitter.com/1XHLhlrJV6
And a video from the luncheon.
The Princess was chic in a beautifully fitted white, knee-length dress with black trim on the neckline and waist. At this point, each sartorial choice needs to be carefully considered in the context of the sheer longevity the images will have. Timeless is the brief for all of the events over the next several days. With thanks to Laura for pointing out distinctive zipper detail at the cuff; the dress appears to be a custom Jenny Packham piece.
Kate accessorised with the late Queen's Bahrain Pearl earrings.
In 1947, the then Princess Elizabeth received seven larger pearls from the ruler of Bahrain. Two of those pearls were used to create the beautiful Bahrain pearl earrings. They've been in Kate's rotation for years and always add an elegant touch.
More than anything, there's a deeply symbolic significance to these pieces now.
Kate wore the earrings for Her late Majesty's funeral.
The Princess teamed the dress with a very chic pair of Aquazzura Bow Tie pumps.
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It's been incredibly enjoyable to take in all the nuggets being shared over the past week. I'm particularly excited to see the floral arrangements. Sustainability and supporting local producers is very much at the heart of Charles' decisions -- from the menu for garden parties to all elements of the Coronation. Seasonal flowers and foliage from all over the United Kingdom has arrived at Westminster Abbey.
Buckingham Palace said: "From the Isle of Skye to the coast of Cornwall, and from the mountains of Snowdonia to Tobermore in Northern Ireland, over 120 varieties of flowers have been grown by over 80 members of Flowers from the Farm, a non-profit association that champions artisan growers, on farmland, allotments and cutting gardens across the four nations of the United Kingdom. The arrangements will reflect Their Majesties’ deep affection for the natural world and their shared passion for gardening, and showcase the best of the British countryside in the Spring, inspired by the richness of Westminster Abbey."
Their Majesties recorded a special message for the weekend, wishing everyone a safe journey and a wonderful Coronation weekend...with a reminder to 'mind the gap' :)
Sound familiar? 🔊👀
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) May 5, 2023
Listen out for Their Majesties on @TfL and @NetworkRail on your travels this #Coronation weekend… and don’t forget to #MindTheGap. pic.twitter.com/LHyevsSRBg
A video captioned 'One Day to Go'.
One day to go....#Coronation
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) May 5, 2023
Eight Windsor Greys will be on duty tomorrow as they pull the Gold State Coach during the Coronation Procession. Say hello to 🐴 Icon, Shadow, Milford Haven, Newark, Echo, Knightsbridge, Meg and Tyrone.
Meet the horses!
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) May 4, 2023
🐴 Icon
🐴 Shadow
🐴 Milford Haven
🐴 Newark
🐴 Echo
🐴 Knightsbridge
🐴 Meg
🐴 Tyrone
These eight ‘Windsor Greys’ will be centre-stage on Saturday as they pull the Gold State Coach in the #Coronation procession: https://t.co/PgcD5xaGrk pic.twitter.com/4nF2SSaVv3
Big Ben lit up in honour of the Coronation last night.
Big Ben has been lit up with projections again tonight to celebrate the #Coronation pic.twitter.com/BUWbySTbd1
— Lizzie Robinson (@LizzieITV) May 4, 2023
It is visually stunning.
A Royal Mail Postbox ready for the weekend!
Tents along the route.
Mandy Ellis knows it's the time to dress up.
Striking millinery on display.
A replica of St Edward's Crown in London.
A decorated throne at Grosvenor Square.
Coronation benches, designed by schoolchildren, on display at the Tower of London.
An overview of preparations in London from the BBC.
A 3D look at the Coronation route from Sky.
Take a look at our 3D guide to the coronation route ⬇️
— Sky News (@SkyNews) May 4, 2023
The King and Queen Consort will travel the same route in a procession to and from Westminster Abbey, where the coronation ceremony will take place.
Latest coronation news: https://t.co/TAB7JSNL8E pic.twitter.com/WrU483tQ74
Across the Commonwealth and overseas, members of the armed forces have been marking the occasion.
Commonwealth and Host Nation Flags on parade during the ceremony pictured at Army Training Centre Pirbright, Military representatives from thirty-three Commonwealth nations and six British Overseas Territories were thanked for representing their countries and presented with Coronation Coins ahead of tomorrow.
A plate of Coronation Coins.
Representatives from the following will participate tomorrow: Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Brunei Darussalam, Cameroon, Canada, Cayman Islands, Eswatini, Falkland Islands, Fiji, Gabon, Gibraltar, Jamaica, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Montserrat, New Zealand, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Togo, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands, Uganda and Zambia.
Band members on parade.
Jamaican Forces soldiers with their Coronation Coins.
Flags on parade.
The Buckingham Palace reception for overseas guests begins around 5pm this evening.
Kate looks lovely. I was surprised to see her early today.
ReplyDeleteI wonder if the BRF will be seen at church this Sunday and then take a bit of a break.
Is this a revamped version of her LK Bennett dress from several years ago?
ReplyDeleteWOW! She is simply stunning. This dress is divine.
ReplyDeleteThis is so exciting! Thanks Charlotte! I LOVE Kate’s shoes 😍 Can’t wait to see what she’ll wear throughout the weekend. She looked just beautiful today, from head to toe.
ReplyDeleteJoanne in CA
HRH The Princess of Wales is so elegant & regal, yet at the same time, so genuine, humble and kind; a charming combination for our future Queen!
ReplyDeleteThose shoes are beautiful, but did she wear them on a walkabout on the Mall? I just can’t imagine negotiating the pavement in those spiky heels.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful. I love the crisp clean lines of this look.
ReplyDeleteThe princess is so chic in her simple, well-fitting white dress and black heels. I detect a little peachy lipstick, which is very flattering. Just imagine if she were to wear a full-on red lip (with lighter eye makeup). But I guess that’s just not her.
ReplyDeleteFinally! A simple, flattering, dress, without a hint of mumsy. Meghan has those same gorgeous pumps.
ReplyDeleteKaren in Virginia
Many still stutter over saying "King Charles" versus "Prince". We
ReplyDeletealso stutter over The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh.😊
How fun to have all the photos. Love Catherine's choice of dress, shoes and earrings today. All gorgeous. It will be a fun but very long weekend for everyone.Ali
ReplyDeleteClassic,stunning princess Catherine!
ReplyDeleteWow, this post is certainly packed with terrific visuals. Great fun!
ReplyDeleteAs an enthusiastic equestrian, I was interested in the horses when I saw them rehearsing the other night. I assume there must be a special breeding program to produce these beautifully-matched Windsor Greys. I know the late Queen was deeply interested in what I suppose would be called "equine husbandry" and that she even privately visited the States to be introduced to computer programs being used by American breeders of her acquaintance. I've been wondering about what has become of the Queen's horses. King Charles has never struck me as a horse lover, outside of his polo ponies. And so far as I know, he doesn't play polo any longer.
The thought of a horse named "Milford Haven" made me laugh out loud.
I truly love the Princess's black and white dress, with its crisp, clean lines and perfect fit. It reminds me of the navy and white Jaeger dress (with shorter sleeves) that she wore on a couple of occasions. I loved that dress and searched for it in my size in vain. I'm still keeping an eye out for something like it.
I recognized the shoes immediately, having admired them on Meghan Sussex. I quite like them but haven't quite been able to convince myself to spend that much money on a pair of shoes. Maybe I'll find them on sale? I can only hope.
I believe I read King Charles sold some of the horses fairly soon after he became King.
DeleteVittoria, I read that the King hasn't much interest in the horses but the new Queen has. He started selling off horses soon after the death of his Mother. The Queen used to spend a lot of money on the upkeep of them but also won a lot. Like everything else it is being scaled back to keep costs down. S🙂.
DeleteI have been on the Mall for 14 hours. Saw the King and Queen twice and William once. Sadly the walk about took place at the other end of the Mall to where I am. Got soaked once but all dry …. for now! It is party central here, quite a bit of wine and Prosecco going down! I am wrapped in two tin foil wraps (bit like a big turkey) and trying to doze! I thought Kate looked absolutely gorgeous in both outfits for today. Looking forward to the morning and seeing all the pomp and pageantry
DeleteWow, Anon 23:00!! That's just incredible, I admire your determination! Enjoy every minute of it and take care! ☺️Zora from Prague
DeleteShe looks stunning. This reminds me of the pink Orla Kiely dress Kate wore when she danced with Paddington Bear.
ReplyDeleteNot Earl and Countess of Wessex but Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh
ReplyDeleteI think Sophie is an asset to the BRF but I think some style advice would help her to look amazing. She is so pretty, but her fashion choices do not always flatter her beauty. I say this as a fan.
DeleteIt's all so exciting! I have one comment about the fashion: Kate's dress seems to gather around her hips in a couple of pictures, which makes her look very thin. Her hair is WOW!
ReplyDeleteThank you for the comments on the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh. I keep forgetting :)
ReplyDeleteWe all do, dear Charlotte! 😉 Zora from Prague
DeleteI adore this look. Lovely photos. I am surprised she chose shoes so associated with the DoS.
ReplyDeleteI love these photos and clips , Thank you so much Charlotte ! The flowers and horses and Big Ben , it’s so exciting to see real preparations , because in the US we just get a reporters face “taking head” in front of BP. I’m so excited to get up at 5 am to watch, even my husband says he wants to see it.
ReplyDeletePerfection. The Princess looked beautiful. I love seeing her wearing those earrings. I knew The Duchess of Edinburgh had also worn them but didn't know Princess Diana had worn them as well. A good idea to go out to meet the people waiting outside for tomorrow. They all got a great reception, just like in Soho yesterday. Like everyone else here I'm hoping to see a Princess dressed like a Princess tomorrow. Most Royals seem to be wearing minimum jewellery tonight. Except for the Grand Duchess of Luxembourg. She is wearing a nice necklace. I have read that there's a last minute change to the Peer's wearing their robes. Wear if you have or want to and no coronets. Looking forward to seeing the British Royal ladies tonight. S.🙂.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the updates. Simply amazing. Some truly stunning images!
ReplyDeleteabsolutely elegant and modern. If she had chosen a pearl necklace, it has a touch of Chanel. i like that her dress is a bit shorter it makes everything very fresh.
ReplyDeletei think after jenny packham we will see mcqueen tomorrow and catherine walker over the weekend that are her designers for very important issues but i would love her to take someone new or unknown so for a new era
Catherine looks lovely. I watched some of the videos and once again I am impressed with the Royal Family members’ ability to make so much small talk. To meet so many people and make each person feel like they were worth the time to have even a short conversation is a gift.
ReplyDeleteIt has got to be hard work at times. They will be exhausted after this weekend.
Thank you Charlotte for the hours you will be putting into the blog over this time.
WOW!!! Charlotte that is A Lot!!! Your coverage all ready is Unbelievable!! xoxo
ReplyDeleteThat impromptu Walk About was Smashing!! How Great of them!! Is it even possible...but Kate is just getting better & better at her job/role!!?? She's a natural. She's regal, but she's also real! xoxo
It's just So Wonderful seeing Charles in his element!! He seems like he's the most excited of Anyone!! He's like a kid on Christmas Eve!! lol I just Love It & am So Happy for Him!! xoxo
William - I can't even imagine what he is feeling!?? After being prepared all his life that this was his destiny.... how wild will it be for him watching his father, knowing the next person to sit on The Chair & wear all the Vestments will he HIM!!!??? Whoa!! Reality Check Much!??? :0
I bet they go between being thrilled/caught up in the moment & having their stomach's in their throats!! :0 Yikes!!! xoxo
I can't wait & I know it will be Wonderful!! Blessings to all attending & to all watching live & across the globe!! xoxo
Dear Becca, you expressed some of my feelings too - and so well! 😃 Especially re: William! I'm happy when I think how many of us royal watchers all over the world are excited right now - happy to be a part of this community! 🥰 Wishing everyone a great day tomorrow! Zora from Prague
DeleteHi Zora! I just saw this, as I was making one last pass through all of Charlotte's Posts from today, before I head up to bed. It really is such a wonderful community Charlotte has created here. I was hearing Kate say, during the walk about, that it's hard to believe that it's already been 12yrs since her wedding, it's gone by so fast. Then just now it hit me, that many of us have been here that long!! :o What a wonderful & rather unique experience, to all have been together here over the years! xoxo
DeleteWell, as Tigger would say...... "TTFN"! See you all here tomorrow to share in all the history & excitement together! Massive Hugs & Kisses to you, Dear Charlotte.... & keep that coffee flowing!!
xoxo
Perfect from head to toe! What's even more impressive than her appearance is her natural and warm ability to connect with people -- that's something purely Kate and not created by a stylist. Wow, Prince William is a very lucky man...and so is Britain.
ReplyDeleteHear Hear!! IMO, You said it all!! xoxo
DeleteExactly, IMO! and she is able to connect with the people in the streets as well as with all the foreign royals and dignitaries...! Hats off to her! Zora from Prague
DeleteAfter years of following Catherine and this blog faithfully every day, I am finally compelled to write my first comment! Hello Everyone!
ReplyDeleteI am giddy with excitement and literally cannot contain myself anymore! I am just so grateful to be alive today and be able to witness this historic event! How fortunate are we?
I just want to congratulate His Majesty, King Charles, on his coronation. I wish him all the best for his reign. I have so much respect for him. I feel he has supported his mother, the monarchy and his country with diligence and dignity all his life! He has waited a lifetime for this moment. I wish for him to enjoy every moment of this weekend thoroughly. He deserves being celebrated and honoured.
The princess of Wales looked incredible today. She is simply perfection from head to toe. Her hair, especially, looked phenominal! She holds a very special place within my heart. I simply adore her...
How I wish I could be there to experience this all in person! It's almost as if I can feel the excitement ooze through the cables of the internet to me!! It seems strange, but that's how it feels! Love the Big Ben lighting up and all the rehearsals and preparations taking place. I have literally decided that with William's coronation, I will definitely be coming over to experience it for myself!!
To Charlotte and all fellow bloggers: Enjoy every moment! I will be glued to the screen tomorrow!!
Anèl.
Ane`l, I apologize I can't figure out how to put your name in correctly. It is wonderful to see you commenting.
DeleteCharlotte is doing an amazing job and the weekend hasn't started. As another reader mentioned above...everyone have a great time watching.
Hello Hello Anel, it's so wonderful to have you join in! Your comments were wonderful & I know just what you mean, about feeling the excitement... as if it's coming right through the cables! What a wonderful time to be alive & able to share in this historic moment, wherever we are around the globe! :)
DeleteHey GA and Becca, thank you kindly for the warm welcome! I appreciate it so much!
DeleteGA, you can just spell it without the grave accent if it's easier, just a normal "e" is fine! 🙂
I've been up since early morning. It was still dark. I just couldn't contain my excitement any longer!! It feels like my own birthday or wedding day! Happy watching everyone!! 🙃
The Princess is resplendent, so beautiful. I love all the pictures of the Prince and Princess together, but especially the one on their walk about.
ReplyDeleteThank you Charlotte for your tireless work, and all you do to bring this historic occasion to all of us.❤️
Love the blue dress and the deep side part! And let's not forgot those earrings!
ReplyDeleteshe looks beautiful thanks Charlotte for your hard work leading up to the coronation
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely stunning, gorgeous in all that she is wearing!! Beautiful sartorial choice for this occasion!! 🥰☺️
ReplyDeleteThere are replicas of her Bahrain earrings on Etsy.
ReplyDeleteSimply perfect her outfit today and I'm in love with those earrings. Her hair looked especially lovely today great blow out by her hairstylist. Sue in WA
ReplyDeleteSimplicity at it's finest. Simple color and style. IMHO, one of the photos appear the dress it almost too big on her. I love the shape of the shoulders. And given the simplicity it lets many of the guests shine on their own.
ReplyDeleteAppreciate the impromtu walk about and I'm sure many of those that hunkered down early in the day feel special.
Charlotte, what a post. I wasn't expecting to be so enamored with so many interesting facts today. Love learning more about about the horses (and HM at that) from the post and many posters. Thanks everyone! Elle
Wow! The princess looked stunning!
ReplyDeleteI am loving all the commentary and pictures of the coronation build up. Thank you Charlotte!
ReplyDeleteIt feels so exciting with the anticipation of what's to come! Watching from NZ.
The princess looks stunning at this event! Love it!
Beautiful ensemble, the Princess looks stunning. Love the dress.
ReplyDelete