Today, May 6, marks King Charles III's historic coronation – the first British crowning in 70 years. The main events, including a royal procession and flypast, are taking place today; however, celebrations began last night – in the world's most famous royal home: Buckingham Palace.
The King, Prince William, and Princess Catherine opened the royal residence to world leaders, including First Lady Jill Biden and Olena Zelenska, the First Lady of Ukraine. Olena (seen with the Princess and Jill Biden below) represents Ukraine at the coronation events while her husband, President Zelensky, leads war efforts at home.
'I had the honor to chat with the Princess of Wales and First Lady Jill Biden at the official coronation reception for His Majesty Charles III. It is a real pleasure to meet these exquisite ladies who have an open heart and are great friends,' Olena says
President Biden's absence at the coronation is said to be a result of a tradition dating back to the birth of the US – stating that the President should not attend coronations as a mark of independence from the UK.
'Headed to the UK for the Coronation of King Charles III – the first in 70 years!' Jill Biden tweeted before her flight to London. 'It's an honor to represent the United States for this historic moment and celebrate the special relationship between our countries.'
Some 100 heads of state are in the British capital for the weekend, many of whom attended last night's palace reception, including Queen Letizia of Spain, Crown Princess of Denmark and Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark, Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene of Monaco and Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway.
In a post, the Prince and Princess of Wales shared that the event was a chance to welcome 'friends from across the Commonwealth and around the world' ahead of the coronation day.
And, while it was the first time in seven decades that the palace welcomed world leaders before a coronation, it was certainly not the first party of the week. Buckingham Palace Gardens also made headlines this week when King Charles hosted his first Garden party – marking a century-old tradition from Queen Victoria's reign.
The coronation itself may be underway, but it's not too late to celebrate in a similar style (almost) at home. We're beginning with these top picks below.
Fortnum & Mason have a well-established relationship with the royal family, so it's no surprise they have a special coronation collection. This includes Fortnum's iconic hamper, filled with their limited edition Coronation range.
Penhaligon’s have been the monarch's perfume makers for generations and have a Royal Warrant to prove it. Inspired by King Charles III’s gardens at his country estate, Highgrove Bouquet is a delicate fragrance.
Darlington Crystal’s tribute to the coronation features a selection of fine glassware, made in Britain. Beautiful and delicate, this pair of flutes are engraved with the Royal Cyphers.
