What's Up Wednesday (The Annual Birthday Celebration)

On Monday the 23rd of September the Crown Prince Imperial and the Duke of Swann celebrated their birthdays. This year, due to the recent passing of Empress Crystobel, it was decided to host a small private function at Sorgenfrei Castle for close family only. What made it a special occasion was that it was the Duke of Swann's 30th birthday and hence the celebrations weren't outright cancelled. 

The Crown Prince Imperial Couple played host and Sorgenfrei Castle is living up to its growing reputation as being a premiere function venue. 

The Crown Prince Imperial Couple prepare to welcome their guests in the garden Court of Sorgenfrei Castle. The toned down party was a "cocktails in the evening" theme with appropriate dress code. 

First to arrive was the Crown Prince Imperial's aunt, Princess Augusta. She was followed by the Crown Prince Imperial's cousin, Queen Maxima of Syldavia, who arrived without her husband. 

Other close cousins attending were; The Grand Duke and Grand Duchess of Hanoveria at far left and right and the Prince and Princess Youssopoff to the left of Princess Augusta.

The Duke of Swann's cousin Princess Xenia of Wallachia and her mother Princess Suzanna of Wallachia also attended. 

Finally we see the arrival of the newly engaged Princess Marie-Elizabeth of Swann with her fiance Arch Duke Otto Von Fulco D'Este and Prince Dillon of Swann all arriving at left of the picture. 

Then the guest of honour was welcomed by his host and co-birthday boy. The Duke of Swann is greeted by The Crown Prince Imperial Couple. 

The "cocktails in the evening" theme worked well in the Sorgenfrei Castle garden setting and served its purpose as a discreet Royal event. 

The full contingent of guests posed for the obligatory Family Photo and these pictures were granted press access. We wish our Royals all the best for the year to come and look forward to this years Christmas Ball apparently to be hosted in Scotney by special invitation of its President.