What is it called when you have a plan that exceeds your expectations? I think it is “a wish granted, a dream come true,” like this moment at Blenheim Palace.
Last week, Stuart and I had the honor of Chairing “Live Royally!” an extraordinary five-day event that CEO.org (Chief Executives Organization) hosted in England for only 34 members/spouse attendees. Drawing from my experience filming my PBS TV series in England, I was inspired to create a regal yet entertaining and informative experience. The challenge was on!
Stuart and I landed in London a few days early to be on our game and adjust to the time. A driver picked us up at Heathrow (4 a.m. our USA time). As we drove toward London, he politely announced, “Mr. and Mrs. Holden, the King is passing us presently on the right side of our vehicle.” Really? OH, my! There he was in a handsome Rolls with two police escorts. Right on cue, this set the scene perfectly for “Live Royally!”
We arrived at the glorious Dorchester Hotel and ate a petite breakfast in the lobby. A few moments later, I was off to meet Elizabeth Gage. There was no time to change, so wake up, Holly… two pots of tea, please! (I am wearing the “Paley Jacket”)
Elizabeth Gage creates uniquely bespoke, hand-made, stunning jewelry; her boutique is in elegant Belgravia, London. Her pieces are exhibited in museums and feted worldwide. She received an M.B.E. from the Late Queen Elizabeth II. (See “Welcome New Sponsor” below) It has been a few years since we last saw one another at a dinner party we hosted for her at Fox Hall. How exciting to see her again… jet lag was not an option!
The next day, it was time to focus on our “Live Royally” event! We were excited to execute our plan after taking two “scout trips” to England with Stacy Bailine, the ultimate and extremely professional Director of Events for CEO.org. Off to Cliveden House to commence the event!
Thanks to the CEO.org “Dream Team: Stacy, Sarah, and Payton,” every detail was executed like “Big Ben” clockwork! Our 34 attendees were charming and enthusiastic, traveling from Canada, Hong Kong, and the USA… we adored them all! Our educational resources were brilliantly insightful, the venues splendid, and the cuisine yummy! The British weather? Blue skies and puffy white clouds. It was all magical if you ask me!
Thank you, Tim and Louise, International CEO Chairs, for inviting and trusting us to Chair this event! The tagline “only-in-CEO experiences” rang true each day. To name a few: wine tasting and dinner at Baron Alfred de Rothschild’s Waddesdon Manor, a book discussion with the Duchess of Rutland, Emma Manners, luncheon with Lady Camoys at her family home Stoner Park, a luncheon with Peter and Eleanor Buxton at their home Kirtlington Park, an engaging talk from The Royal Butler- Grant Harrold, and cocktails with the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon at Highclere Castle. The grand finale? A pink-themed dinner/dance at Blenheim Palace.
When we pulled up to the magnificent Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO site, my heart went pitter-patter; I consider Blenheim Palace the most important and significant palace in the world. Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill, my dear friend and the elder daughter of the 11th Duke of Marlborough, greeted every guest as they entered the Great Hall, introducing them to her family home. She just penned her 12th book, Blenheim: 300 Years of Life in a Palace, which will debut in September 2024. We filmed a PBS episode together at Blenheim. (I am wearing my newest creation from Gramercy Atelier’s Holly Holden Collection.)
As we departed Blenheim Palace at midnight, to my surprise, the exterior was lit up in pink… a Cinderella moment!
“Live Royally” was officially over. We spent the last two days in London for R&R at the glorious Goring Hotel. We took a walk toward Buckingham Palace, next to the Goring Hotel, when a darling, 30-something young lady walked past, stopped, turned around, and took a second glance. “I read your newsletters- You’re Holly Holden!” Maybe it was my bright pink coat. Whatever it was, I am in awe of how gracious my subscribers are. Thank you for introducing yourselves to me worldwide and allowing me to share my experiences with you. How VERY fortunate I am to have an audience who shares the same appreciation for a genteel way of life. Long live gracious tradition!
In summation, “Live Royally” was a dream come true. My wish was granted!
xx
Holly