Queen Elizabeth IIdied on September 8, 2022, and her son Charles immediately ascended the British throne.
One area of fascination is what guests need to know if they are going to meet the current king.
Addressing King Charles
What’s in a name?
When addressing the king, it is very important to get the title correct.
When speaking directly to the king, maintain good eye contact and speak in a clear and audible tone.
However, many people now believe this directive is loosening up a bit (viaBBC).
These physical gestures are customary upon meeting the monarch.
Now that you know the royal procedure, it is time to practice.
So ready, set, curtsy!
Harrold writes about etiquette advice on his websiteThe Royal Butler.
He added, “Everyone else has to, it doesn’t matter who you are.
Even royals remove sunglasses when they meet royals.”
So do yourself a favor and ditch the sunnies ahead of any royal events.
However, it is worth noting thatMichelle Obamahas broken this rule a number of times (perInsider).
That’s a big no-no.
Really it comes down to don’t touch a royal.
If royals are attending, they are designated the final and most honorable position of entrance.
“The queen [or king] enters first followed by other royals.
She will walk with the head of state,” Koenig told Harper’s Bazaar.
And for more casual events, this order of precedence is not always followed.
Therefore, no one should walk ahead of the king to keep the order of precedence alive.
Even their spouse or another political leader is expected to walk a few paces behind them.
Within the British royal family, the order of precedence directly mirrors the line of succession to the throne.
All in all, it is important to remember the rules of precedence.
And one tip don’t pull a Trump and make a run at walk ahead of the king.
You then see him walk through the doors.
Quick what should your next move be?
The same is true for when the king leaves his chair.
Everyone should stand until he has fully exited the premises (perParade).
This behavior helps show respect to the king and his rank.
So don’t be the last one on your feet the next time you see King Charles approach.
This sentiment also rings true for royal events or dinner parties, which often require seating charts.
As for other seating plans, royal family members are given precedence over other dinner party guests.
Don’t eat before King Charles does
Are you a fast eater or a slow eater?
Either extreme could cause an issue if you are having dinner with King Charles.
Remember the Goldilocks rule not too fast or too slow, just right.
And you could’t just call the monarch on the phone.
Address your letter to Buckingham Palace and send it on its way.
So there you have it.
Time to pick up your pen and get to writing your royal letter!
Many royals, including Harry and Meghan, are personally not a fan of selfies.
They’re likely to get rejected.
“If you grant one, then it quickly becomes overwhelming.”
And, as Arbiter pointed out, that could quickly become a bigger problem.
“From a security standpoint, they’re also not ideal as they warrant a certain closeness.”
Be cognizant about gifts to King Charles
Royals know a thing or two about receiving gifts.
They receive numerous presents from all over the world from public fans to foreign dignitaries.
Across this whole spectrum, royals are expected to accept all gifts graciously.
If the gift does not fit within the accepted parameters, the item may have to be returned.
Giving a gift is a great way to show appreciation.
Just double-check it is thoughtful and not too extravagant or inappropriate.
According to the former royal butler Grant Harrold, you should avoid certain topics.
“It depends on the conversation, but weather and travel are allowed.”
These more mundane and simple topics are considered more polite and won’t rock the boat.
Overall, it is advised not to try and get too edgy in your conversation with the monarch.
What about when a royal meeting arises?
Do you have the perfect outfit at the ready?
If you are meeting King Charles, double-check you look sharp and are dressed appropriately for the occasion.
It is recommended that you choose something that covers the arms and has a formal or modest appearance.
Dressing too casually (think jeans and tennis shoes) could be seen as a sign of disrespect.
For many, the Princess of Wales is considered the gold standard of royal dress.
Her style is always demure, put together, and fashionable.
Sounds like a fashion win on all fronts!
