June 2023
In June, we had the privilege of exhibiting Elizabeth Ascot at the prestigious Royal Windsor Flower Show held at York Club in Windsor Great Park. It was an absolutely fabulous day with beautiful installations, great food, music and dance performances and an abundance of joyous laughter. Organised by the Royal Windsor Rose and Horticultural Society, one of the oldest horticultural societies in the country, the show traces its roots back to 1892 when it was established by Queen Victoria. Over the last 130 years the Society has had six monarchs as Patron. This year’s show was inaugurated by the Duchess of Edinburgh. Alan Titchmarsh, in his role as Honorary President, declared with pride, “What you have witnessed here today is the very best of English tradition, in the heart of Windsor countryside!”
March 2023
In March 2023, Kempton’s restaurant at Sunningdale park hosted a cream tea event with Elizabeth Ascot in the magnificent Northcote House, a Neo-Georgian stately home beautifully restored to its former glory. The characters of our book series sprung to life through the thrilling performance of actress Sunita Shroff who delighted the audience, effortlessly transitioning between various accents from contemporary French couturier to Victorian bank heiress. While the ladies enjoyed their cream tea, an engaging Q&A session with the author ensued. Agnes shared heartwarming anecdotes of her personal friendship with Givenchy, providing an intimate glimpse into the world of high fashion. She also delved into the fascinating story behind the fashion exhibition she had curated alongside the iconic designer, showcasing a breathtaking collection of eighty original creations. Some of these extraordinary pieces dated as far back as 1952.
During the months preceding Christmas 2022, we took part in a handful of select markets near Ascot where we proudly presented our Elizabeth Ascot book series and tea blend. This allowed us to personally engage with avid readers of historical fiction and connoisseurs of fine tea.
In September 2022, we received an invitation from the AWBS International Women's Club to present the inaugural book of the Elizabeth Ascot series at their season opening gathering. The event took place at the ON5 Restaurant, situated on the fifth floor of the Grandstand. With its private balcony and breathtaking panoramic window overlooking the Ascot race track, the venue provided an exceptional setting for this special occasion. Actress Patrizia Petrassi, known for her role in "The Windsors: A Royal Dynasty" (2020), recited two excerpts from the book. The first passage transported the audience to the bustling backstage of a contemporary fashion show in Milan, while the second took them back in time to a delightful Victorian tea party in Ascot during the year 1862. The scene unfolded with charm until an unexpected twist abruptly concluded the affair. To further immerse the audience in the experience, the ladies were served the exquisite Victorian Black tea blend. Following the absorbing reading experience, an engaging Q&A session with the author ensued. Attendees had the opportunity to inquire about various aspects of the book, gaining insights into the creation of the Elizabeth Ascot series. To conclude the event, guests were offered the chance to have their books signed by the author.
September 2022