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Happy Anniversary, Mr. Darcy: Pride and Prejudice Turns 200

January 28, 2013 by

 Jane Austen books

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“It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.” ― Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice

This week marks the 200th anniversary of one of the most beloved novels by British author Jane Austen – Pride and Prejudice. If you are not familiar with this tremendously clever and romantic early 19th century novel (but don’t want to actually pick up a book), check out the BBC mini-series version.

For those familiar with Austen’s work and her deliciously, complex characters – aka Ms. Elizabeth (Lizzie) Bennet and Mr. Darcy – celebrate this anniversary by testing your Pride knowledge.

Ciao!

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Queen Elizabeth II and Her Diamond Jubilee

May 31, 2012 by

 

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This weekend, Queen Elizabeth II will celebrate her Diamond Jubilee with 60 years as Queen and Head of State of the United Kingdom and 15 other Commonwealths. At 86 years old, the Queen has celebrated numerous accomplishments and reached significant milestones, including becoming the second longest reigning monarch in British history – the first is Queen Victoria with a 63-year reign. Last year, I gave you 8 little-known facts about Queen Elizabeth. Now, in honor of her Diamond Jubilee, let’s take a look at 8 more:

8 More Facts About Queen Elizabeth II and the Royal Family

  1. During her reign, the Queen has had 3.3 million pieces of correspondence sent to her.
  2. In 2005, the Queen claimed ownership to 88 swans on the Thames in London.
  3. Despite popular belief, there is no “official” way to approach the Queen, but common courtesy is expected. Those who wish to greet the Queen in a more traditional fashion can do so with a neck bow (men) or a slight curtsy (women).
  4. In addressing the Queen by name, it is proper to use “Your Majesty” first, followed by “Ma’am”.
  5. The Queen has more than 10 Royal Residencies, of which I have seen or visited: Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace, Windsor Castle, Palace of Hollyroodhouse, Balmoral Castle, St. James Place, and Clarence House.
  6. Many members of the Royal Family, including Her Majesty, can be contacted by mail. See a list of addresses.
  7. Before 1917, members of the Royal family had no surname, only the name of the house or dynasty to which they belonged. However, Queen Elizabeth and her husband the Duke changed this tradition giving their descendants the surname Mountbatten-Windsor, the surname of the Queen’s husband paired with the name of the Queen’s official house.
  8. During the Diamond Jubilee celebration, you may see the letters “ER” on the Royal Crest. These letters stand for Elizabeth Regina or Elizabeth the Queen.
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Happy Birthday Duchess Kate

January 9, 2012 by

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Happy Birthday Kate!

Today, the Duchess of Cambridge (formerly Kate Middleton) turns 30. Although she is technically not a princess, being a Duchess has its benefits, including snagging a handsome man who is in line for the throne of England.

Although we can’t all be a part of the Royal Family, we can still do things that make us feel like princesses every day, and most of them do not involve fancy ball gowns or tiaras!

What do you do to feel like a princess?

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Royal Ascot Celebrates 300th Year

June 20, 2011 by

This weekend marked the 300th year of a major sporting event in England – Royal Ascot. Founded by Queen Anne in 1711, Royal Ascot is the most popular flat horse racing event in England. As you may know, I’ve written about my fascination with Britain’s Royal Ascot in previous posts – the glamour, the fancy dress, and, oh yes, the horses! Although I think the horses are beautiful, the real reason for my interest lies with the attendees and what they are wearing, particularly on their heads.

Although I’m not actually able to attend Royal Ascot each year, I still manage to celebrate this key British event in my own way. I simply create  my own Royal Ascot by attending my local racetrack. The racetrack and concourse are  lovely and the attendees, although not Royals, are certainly quite interesting in their own right.

When I attend the races, I peruse the crowd for creative dresses and hats. The trend this year seemed to follow one of three patterns 1) big brimmed, 2) black and white, and/or 3) bold colors. There was also a trend for the hat wearers to showoff bare shoulders and long straight hair under their hats. I could be wrong, but I’m guessing this trend in large-brimmed hats and long straight hair is somehow related to the recent excitement surrounding William and Kate.

Didn’t get to Royal Ascot this year? You can still view the full fashion coverage from 2011 – as well as the fashions over the last 300 years.

 

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Celebrate Will & Kate With A Royal Breakfast

April 28, 2011 by

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Tomorrow is a very special day in the Bistro Chic household. I will be rising at 5am to capture as much Royal Wedding footage as I can before jetting off to work at 7:30am. Here’s how I will be spending my morning….

Bistro Chic Royal Wedding Breakfast

  • Crumpets with fig and walnut cheese and raspberry jam
  • Twinings English Breakfast Tea (looseleaf) with cubed sugar and cream
  • Soft-boild egg
  • Bowl of blackberries

Table Setting and Atmosphere

  • Royal Albert Fine China Tea Setting
  • Gold table cloth
  • Shiny red plate chargers
  • Cloth monogrammed napkins
  • Handel’s Water Music (in background)

And of course, full coverage of Will and Kate’s wedding!

I would love to hear how all of my readers are celebrating this special occasion. Drop me a note and let me know!

Ciao and enjoy the Royal Wedding festivities.

 

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