King Charles and Queen Camilla hosted a lavish State Banquet on December 5, 2023, to welcome German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and First Lady Elke Büdenbender during their official visit to the United Kingdom. The event concluded a busy day of diplomacy, with the royal couple joined by the Prince and Princess of Wales.
The evening was marked by glamour and tradition, with Princess Kate making a striking appearance in a stunning ensemble. Earlier in the day, she wore a dress from Burberry and a royal blue coat designed by Sarah Burton at Alexander McQueen, complemented by a feather brooch and earrings previously owned by the late Princess Diana. As the couple arrived for the banquet, their fashionable choices garnered significant attention, showcasing their royal duties and personal style.
Guest List and Festivities
The State Banquet was attended by a diverse array of guests, totaling 152 notable figures from both British and German backgrounds. Among them were German supermodel Claudia Schiffer and her husband, director Sir Matthew Vaughn, along with Motsi Mabuse, a judge from the popular show *Strictly Come Dancing*, and former Everton midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger. The evening also featured the presence of acclaimed composer Hans Zimmer and renowned children’s book illustrator Axel Scheffler.
The banquet took place in a grand hall adorned with a spectacular 25-metre-high Nordmann Fir Christmas tree, decorated with 15,000 twinkling lights. The ornate room, characterized by vast vaulted ceilings, showcased the coats of arms of every Knight of the Garter since its inception in 1348. This setting provided a fitting backdrop for a celebration of the enduring relationship between the UK and Germany.
As the night unfolded, guests enjoyed a sumptuous meal prepared by royal chefs, emphasizing seasonal ingredients and culinary excellence. The event not only highlighted diplomatic ties but also served as a platform for cultural exchange between the two nations.
The State Banquet exemplified the royal family’s commitment to fostering international relationships, blending tradition with modernity. As the evening came to a close, the event left a lasting impression, reflecting the grandeur of royal hospitality and the importance of diplomatic connections.
For those who missed the event, vivid photographs captured the elegance of the evening, showcasing both the royal family and the distinguished guests as they celebrated a significant moment in UK-German relations.
