Mannered Gentleman
The abolishment of presentation of
debutantes in 1958 did not kill off the Royal
Garden Parties, but actually increased their
scope, and now there are at least three held
at Buckingham Palace every year, as well as
one at Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh. The
garden parties recognise achievement and
public service, and are invitation only.
If you are lucky enough to be invited, it is
recommended that you arrive early – gates
open at 3 o'clock, and the Royal family arrive
at 4 o'clock. They will circulate amongst the
guest, and talk to a pre-assigned list of guests.
During the party, there will be bands playing,
tea will be served, and the guests have the
opportunity to explore the gardens of
Buckingham Palace, which are normally
closed to the public. It is important to note
that there is very little shade in the Palace
Gardens, so if the weather is wet guests will
be exposed to the rain, or if very hot
exposure to the heat and sun can be
problematic, particularly for gentlemen in
morning dress. Ice cream is available in one
of the tents if needed.
Parking instructions will be sent with your
invitation, but spaces are limited, and as
Buckingham Palace is only a short distance
from Victoria Station, and Green Park tube
station, it might be easier to get public
transport, or a taxi. It is worth noting that
taxis might be hard to come by as everyone
exits the party. Dress code for ladies is a
smart day dress and hat, and shoes should be
suitable for standing on grass (i.e. not
stilettos).
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If you are not invited to one of the Royal
Garden Parties, there are many other events
in the summer Season which you might be
able to attend, or you can host your own
summer party, or attend parties of your own
network. These parties can vary wildly in
format from formal dinners or lunches, to a
barbecue or a cocktail party.
If you are hosting a party, make sure that you
have thought about the style of the party that
you are throwing, and how that will fit with
the guests that you are inviting. Make sure
that you specify if children are allowed or not
(it is normal that children will not be invited
to a dinner or cocktail party, but might be
expected at a lunch or barbecue).