What's Up Wednesday (Coronation 2015 Preparations)

With expectation running high for the upcoming coronation of a new king and now Emperor to boot, preparations for the "event of the century" are fervently underway in the Scot-Britanian Isles. The governments of Scotney have both allocated budgets for the event that will co-labour with Emperor Chritian-Victor's own expenditure to make this truly a day to remember. The Europan Council is also committed to do their share even though the appointment of Emperor, is seen merely a bureaucratic announcement to them and a coronation ceremony was not expected but will now be included. The date has thus been set for Saturday the 4th of July 2015 making Friday 3rd a bank holiday. 

The last event of such scale as this coronation promises to be, was the 1993 Coronation of Empress Crystobel and Emperor Christian of the United Empire of Scot-Britania. Most records and photos of that event was destroyed in the 1996 Revolution but some have survived. Above we see one of those very few photos of the Empress and Emperor on that day. It attests to its grandiosity and we can only wonder and be inspired as to how our new millennium coronation might look.

A photo of Princess Augusta also survived seen here as she appeared at the 1993 Coronation. She chose, as per her preferences at the time extreme minimalism, wearing only the coronet and order of chivalry required by protocol.

Now let us take a look at some of the preparations for the upcoming event.

This is the Invitation template prepared to go out to all the dignitaries asked to the June 2015 Coronation.

Preparations are obviously in full swing with organizing venues, parades, jewellery etc. Local town councils are also setting up public viewing screens as many might opt for a open festivity rather than staying at home and watching it on television. Diplomatic arrangements and security management of visiting V.I.P.'s pose the biggest issues. Hotels are reporting highest recorded booking rates as people from all over the world plan to flock the streets on coronation day.

No detail is overlooked. Earlier this year many restoration projects were undertaken refurbishing much of Scotney and Britania's Royal historic artifacts and other treasure. Now they will be given full context in relation to the coronation. A small statue of King Edward VII in the Cathedral of the Lion Heart had taken some wear over the decades but has been totally restored and with the rest of the cathedral will be the central venue for the event. 

The Cathedral of the Lion Heart is almost completely restored setting the stage for the coronation.

The cathedral has been closed to the public during restoration and now for preparation for the July event.

The public can follow the preparations here on our blogt. 

The Throne of Scot-Britania has been moved to its coronation location in the north anex of the cathedral.

The Coronation Coach, kept at the Imperial Mews has also been restored and will definitely be  used to carry the new Emperor to and from the cathedral during the processional parade through the streets of Londinium.

Madame Frumsetta, world famous couturier, has been asked to restore the blue Imperial Robes of State to their former glory. The red Royal Robes on the other hand have been sent to a Scotney Couturier for the same treatment.

The Imperial Robes of State can be seen in this photo being inspected and fitted onto the Imperial couple.

Emperor Christian-Victor can be seen admiring the detail on his wife's robe. 

This photo alludes to the upcoming grandeur of the coronation ceremony as Empress Odeliah strikes a regal pose next to the Emperor. So our imagination starts to wonder in expectation.

The flags of both countries, Scotney and Britania have been altered to commemorate the change from democracy to democratic constitutional monarchy.

Britania's flag as a monarchy.

Britania's flag as it has been from 1996 till 2015.

Scotney's monarchic flag.

Scotney's flag as a democratic republic.

In preparation for the coronation the Mausoleum of the former Emperor and Empress of Scot-Britania have also received attention.

The Imperial Mausoleum was visited by Emperor Christian-Victor and Empress Odeliah this week to remember the Emperor's parents and to celebrate their legacy and the restoration of monarchy.

It was as much a moment of symbolic statesmanship as a very private and what must have been an emotional one for the Imperial couple.

Their Majesties even in personal reflection did look sufficiently regal, again alluding to a colourful, inspiring and hopeful future as Emperor and Empress. It seems that forgiveness and time does heal all wounds and where great tragedy and loss has sought to destroy now a new day is about to dawn.

What's Up Wednesday (2015 Syldavian Electorate Meeting)

The recently restored throne room of Ploch Palace in Syldavia could finally be put to official use for the first time since the restoration of the monarchy. Reichenthal craftsmen took several years to restore the neglected splendour of the very intricately decorated room to its former glory. The central feature of the room is obviously the throne presiding over a silver overlaid round table seen below.

The throne room served in its first Syldavian Electorate meeting this year, albeit it the third meeting of its kind in the history of the newly reestablished monarchy. From this year onward the room and the annual Electorate Meeting will be seen as the very heart of the Kingdom of Syldavia.

In the above picture we see the Crown of Syldavia, symbol of the monarchy present upon the round table.

The yearly Electorate Meeting gathers the Heads of the Five Noble Families in one room to officially open the national year and establish its plans and budgets and also to vote in and officiate policy. The meeting is very similar to an "Opening of Parliament" as in other monarchies except that in Syldavia, the King is seen as part of the 5-fold collective and not as an individual acting solely in his own person.

Their Majesties the King and Queen of Syldavia and the Count Von Bismarck represent the currently elected Royal Family.

The monarch of Syldavia is elected from the heads of 5 electorate families. He/she then serves for life followed by another election. Above we see the other four Electors along with the Royal Family gathered in the throne room.

King Nikolas III of Syldavia.

Queen Maxima was present as an observer...

along with the King's brother who officially represents the Von Bismarck Family.

The Countess of Bo'hemia more popularly known as the famous fashion designer, Madame Frumsetta, is one of the Electors.

The Grand Duke of Reichenthal, formerly King of Reichenthal, represents his now mediatized region of Reichenthal as an Elector.

The Grand Duke of Serbieski, another former Kingdom  is the fourth Elector at the council..

Finally we get a rare glimpse of a Royal who does not frequent the lime light. Princess Victoria Von Thurn und Taxis, the last Elector.

Even though the Electorate Meeting is an official and working meeting it also serves a ceremonial function requiring formal dress and tiaras. We hope at least the sparkle makes this seemingly mundane event more fun to watch.

Financial Friday (Royalty in Business)

In former centuries being Royal was the only occupation of Royalty as their class afforded them the responsibility of "ruling". All that meant was that they had to make all the decisions concerning their country's internal and foreign affairs. These days not even the reigning monarchs really rule and when they do it is very similar to the very real job of directing a massive corporation. As such many monarchs and especially their extended family members have grown accustomed to actually running a business or working in some form or another. Thus the role of "being Royal" has almost become a ceremonial icing on the cake of an actual job. 

Let us take a look at some of the business ventures Royal are involved with these days.

The International powerhouse Arc International has become a household name due to its global influence and outright financial force. It is wholly owned and managed by Lady Arcwhite in her private capacity. This however remains a technical reality as she obviously works with a board of directors and international branch managers. She also has to juggle the many responsibilities with her ceremonial role as ruler of the islands of Arcwhite. 

Arc International has many diverse holdings of which the three main branches are; media in the form of MINE Magazine, computers in the form of Hayz International and state of the art power plants.

The first natural gas power plant owned by Arc International was erected in the province of Serbieski in Syldavia and was the cause for a still raging controversy. 

Hayz Computers is a household name. The company reached its apex under the direction of the very young computer whizz Viscount Hayz who also holds a title of Nobility. He amalgamted his holding with that of Arc International a few years ago and has also taken up the role of official spokesperson for the international conglomerate. 

Lady Arcwhite will mostly let Lord Hayz do the talking while she makes the decisions and signs the cheques. 

The Duke of Swann is one of the richest people in the world and this is not due to his Royal status but rather to business. As reining Duke, His Royal Highness is obviously into agriculture, mining, tourism and city property development but has seen the gap to boost business in these fields to benefit his country and his profit margins. 

Swann International is the parent company that owns all the Duke's various business interests and has served to only boost the Principality of Swann's gross national profit. One of the many branches of Swann International deals with the media as Europa's most circulated newspaper, The Proclaimer is owned by the company.

Art and art trading is somewhat of a hobby of the Duke who is also an accomplished artist himself. He not only funds the arts where possible but makes an effort to exhibit his own work and then funnels the money into national art development programs. Jewellery design and manufacture is another such field of interest that also receives effort from Swann International especially in 3rd world countries like South Africa.

Often considered a frivolity, the Duke of Swann is also a co-owner of the nightclub Dark Star in the Swann Capital.

Sorgenfrei Castle was recently acquired by the Crown Prince Imperial. It is situated high on a mountain top in the city of Muren, the Crown Prince Imperial's wife's hometown. This Castle does not just serve as a royal residence but also as a museum and a wedding/conference venue and guest house. In that capacity the castle is a very lucrative business. Sorgenfrei's large property also includes the Crown Princess Imperial's family farm.

Odelia Sorgenfrei, now the Crown Princess Imperial of the United Empire of Scot-Britania grew up on a diary farm that she still owns and forms part of the Sorgenfrei Castle Estate. The dairy farm has been operating successfully and profitably for more than five generations and the Princess insists on managing her inheritance properly.

Princess Augusta is a world famous historic jewellery trader. She specializes in dealing with historic antiques, restorations and auctions.

Princess Augusta has played a major role in restoring old Royal jewellery that has been worn over centuries. This job has done much for historic preservation. She has also served as curator/consultant to many International History Museums.

Princess Augusta's special expertise and close Royal Familial ties had her presiding over several majorly historic jewellery auctions like the famous D'Pont Du Lac Sapphire sale pictured above.

Madame Frumsetta may be considered at the forefront of contemporary fashion and couture design. her world wide renowned style has become a veritable household name and a red carpet can almost not be counted unless one of her designs are featured. As an entitled Royal she eschews the traditional privileges it comes with but prefers to pursue her artistic drive through hard work. This has proven to be a very successful formula.

Madame Frumsetta however uses her close links to Royalty to serve her Royal clients with the sensitivity of somebody on the "inside". She does not however lose her head in the castles in the sky but prefers backstage to the red carpet in her private capacity.

Gloria Van DerBilt, was once a wealthy media, movies production, magazine, education and transport heiress. She never lost that privilege but has gained the title of Queen of Normandia. She has amalgamated her family business obligations with that of head of state to the benefit of both. Her international business empire  has boosted the economy and skills development of her adopted kingdom and it in turn has welcomed her with equally accepting fervor and hard work. It seems that when Royalty and business combine it can lead to new heights of prosperity and harmony. 

One of the greatest of these synergistic successes is that of the Youssopoff Princely Family and their relationship within the former Empire of Ruskiana. Although the country ousted its monarchy and discontinued the use of titles, the Youssopoffs were invited back after generations to manage their former holdings, with momentous results.

Prince Felix Youssopoff is the managing director of the company that is responsible for all the mining, timber and sheep farming associated with the Youssopoff family. He also manages vast tracks of land that includes entire towns and tourism. As such he strictly speaking does not own anything of what originally was his family's property but has turned such a profit that he has become one of the wealthiest business men in the world. Due to this he has been able to buy significant shares in the company and through that now owns some property linked with his heritage. 

The small Grand Duchy of Reichenthal has always been associated with carpenters, artisans and wine farming. The reigning Grand Duke has his finger in every pie and is considered a very hands-on Royal. He serves on all major boards that regulate and manage the practical affairs of his region's world renowned produce. His people see him as setting the pace and benchmark for Reichenthalian quality especially in the field of wine making, that he himself also greatly enjoys doing.

Yes, Royalty can and indeed do also actually work. As if their duties as a national symbols are not enough they can also turn a successful buck.

"To be or not to be" Thursday (Countess Tolstoievski)

Gabriella Ivanova Tolstoievski the daughter of the renowned Ruskian Count Ivan Georgevich Tolstoievski was born on Christmas day 1979. To her devout Christian parents this was seen as a symbolic portent of their daughters future. Count Ivan, a Ruskian monarchist sensing the the increasingly ominous political atmosphere in Europa, convinced his wife to raise their daughter abroad on their cattle farm in South Americania. This led to the young Gabriella only seeing her father on short periodic visits. She adored him and his absence only heightened the almost magical image she carried of him in her heart. Unfortunately her father’s fears were justified as the Count was killed protecting the Ruskian Emperor in exile, Nicholas II and his family during the Bloody Revolution of 1996.

The Ruskian Imperial Court were living in exile in Scot-Britania at the time of the Revolution. They were seen as freeloaders riding a gravy train on the taxpayers of Scot-Britania’s back and as such were especially hard-hit by the murderous rebels. Many lost their lives yet the entire Imperial family was not murdered as was the mob’s plan. Count Tolstoievski managed to have two of the Emperor’s daughters smuggled out of the country to his farm in South Americania, weeks before the main wave of the military’s assault on the Palace. The bravery of the Count deeply impressed Gabriella and though devastated by his death found herself immensely proud to be called the daughter of such a selfless man. Now bearing the courtesy title of Countess Gabriella Tolstoievski she began her contradicting life as a South Americanian farm-girl along with her Imperial friends, the two Grand Duchesses.

The Tolstoievski family lost the bulk of their wealth after the Great War but at least had a financially prosperous farm. Due to their help in harbouring the Grand Duchesses during the first years after their escape they also received financial support from the Hanoverian Royal family who were the cousins of the Ruskian Royals. The Countess grew up a tom-boy with dirty fingernails and knowing how to operate a tractor. She loves nature and strives to make her father proud by working hard and living to serve others rather than herself. She and her mother have grown the family farm to be one of the largest peanut producers in their region while at the same time fostering a symbiotic relationship with the surrounding rain forest. Their farming systems have been copied by many who wish to do their bit for protecting the environment. A staunch environmental activist Gabriella has even spent time in jail for resisting arrest during a demonstration against deforestation.

Gabriella’s latest venture is a farming school for international orphans who lost their parents in war. She hopes to give a future to those who have lost their family foundation. The Count Ivan Farming Academy opens its doors for the year 2012.

Countess Gabriella dressed by designer Madame Frumsetta, as a 1920's flapper for a costume ball in 2011. She wears the family tiara, of authentic 1920's design, that was originally made for her great grandmother.

"To be or not to be" Thursday (Countess de Lumbre)

Today we profile a person of contrasts, conviction and passion. She is famous for her beauty, her talent at dancing and for her uncanny resemblance to the Queen of Hispania. She hardly ever attends state functions preferring to focus on her more practical responsibilities but isn’t beyond dressing to the hilt when the occasion demands it.

Her Excellency Donna Maria Rosario de Lumbre, Contessa De Lumbre is the wife of The Comte De Lumbre. Married in April 2011 and from humble origins the Countess is an acclaimed Flamenco dancer and has continued her love and now patronage of this particular art form. The Hispanian monarchy from which her husband derives his noble title, survived the Bloody Revolution of 1996. Thus the De Lumbre family has continued in their responsibilities and lifestyles uninterrupted and unscathed except for extended family abroad being affected. It did however leave an unsettling fear of revolution within the Hispanian monarchy.

Today at age 35, the Countess works alongside her husband on his extensive wine and olive oil producing farms. Owner of several castles the family has many obligations toward the International Heritage Trust and fulfills them by managing most of the properties as museums and not just as private residences. The Countess, a lay scholar of medieval history, takes pride in her role as custodian of the castles and their historic art treasures. She attempts also to spend as much time as possible in performing Flamenco but only to raise money for charities.

Animal abuse takes high priority with Donna Maria who grew up hating the violent side and death associated with Bull fighting. At age 11 her uncle sold a bull to the ring not knowing that the young Maria had taken a liking to it in preceding months often visiting its pastures to look at it and sketch it. Its horrific death affected her deeply. Upon becoming a Countess she chose to use her influence and started a national campaign to eradicate all harm being caused to bulls in the ring. Controversy has obviously been sparked as traditionalists refuse to compromise ancient traditions in the face of total bans. The Countess a passionate Spaniard, hopes to find a middle path and proposes an “American Rodeo” style Bull fight were artistic performance of the matador is the goal rather than the torture and death of an innocent animal. She is currently petitioning Queen Maria of Hispania to avert total bans in favour of her proposal. If her efforts become law she will go down in history as the lady who saved the matador and the bull at the same time. So, don’t mess with Donna Maria she will dance circles around you.

The Countess is due to do an Europan tour of Flamenco dancing to raise awareness of her campaign petitioning for the new Bull fighting law. The tour is set to start in the Principality of Swann towards the end of the year with the Duke of Swann’s special support.

 The Countess de Lumbre wearing a Matador fusion Flamenco dress designed for her performances by Madame Frumsetta. She also wears solid 9ct yellow gold hoop earrings designed by the Duke of Swann's Jewellery Workshops. We can see how she resembles the Queen of Hispania almost like a twin sister. 

"To be or not to be" Thursday (The Duchess Di Giorgio)

Earlier this year a young woman from the country of Romagna was invited for an Espresso by her grandmother.  They met up at their favourite cafe in the city of Milaine where Donatella thought she would spend another happy moment with her "Nunu". However, her grandmother had a very serious discussion planned.

After the regular pleasantries and catching up with family gossip Donatella was confronted by her grandmother locking eyes with her and the question; "Do you remember your crazy uncle Emanuel?" Memories flooded her mind as she recalled how her uncle was taken away in an ambulance while shouting: "I am the King! You will pay for this!" She had almost completely forgotten the incident and soon after was sent to a Pariseum boarding school, where she spent most of her time before reaching adulthood. But there and then, over a cup of espresso, Donatella's life was to change forever. 

She listened like a child being told a fairy tale, drawn into the deep recesses of her family history and her grandmother's familiar voice was all that soothed the final shock. Her uncle wasn't mad as was the intended ruse which always ended in a hushed dismissal of the family scandal. Uncle Emanuel's grandfather, Donatella's great grandfather was the last Crown Prince of the old Kingdom of Romagna. After losing the Great War the monarchy in Romagna was abolished, along with the fascist government it supported. The family wasn't exiled but rather stripped of their wealth and titles and given secret asylum if they willingly gave up the right to ever mention their true identities or any rights to reclaim the throne. They did and one generation later, all was forgotten as the former Royal family "disappeared" from history and raised their children as normal citizens. The crazy uncle somehow came on the truth and broke the silence but was "taken care of" by government officials posing as psychiatric doctors. Emanuel had no children and if normal succession laws are followed, the Royal line of Romagna passed to his younger brother, Donatella's father and then to her. The conversation stopped, while the romantic traffic noises of Milaine gently drew Donatella back to the real world. It must have felt, in weight of responsibility, much the same as any other Prince being told he would actually rule a country. History is everybody's responsibility and Donatella had to face hers.

The NOW tabloid made record sales for reporting the speculations in March as to what Donatella's future was to be.

Her grandmother chose to break the silence just like her mother in law did when she told her. They did it in secret and were sworn to silence but times have changed and Donatella was going to hear more than just the fairy tale of titles. Her great grandfather passed on verbally, the codes to a vault in a Switzer Bank where money was left for his eventual heir when the climate was right to tell the world of the secret Royal Family of Romagna. Thanks to recent world events and two monarchies being restored, Princess Nina of Romagna, technically the Dowager Queen of Romagna decided to pass the story, responsibility and the codes to her 35 year old granddaughter. Donatella will now launch her family onto the International stage. She has engaged the best lawyers to challenge the laws in Romagna relegating her family nameless like orphans without a past. "A restorartion of the monarchy is not as important as knowing who you are and being who you are.", the Princess was quoted to say in a press conference held at the Switzer Bank on the day earlier this year when she went to claim ownership of her inheritance. It seems she has nothing more than a moral agenda as can be expected from a well brought up young woman who has never gotten anything for free in her life. She knows that this "crown" didn't fall in her lap to serve vanity but that if she wears it humbly, it will serve the entire world. 

Also in the vault was the remainder of the Romagna Royal Jewels. Among which this tiara in diamonds with matching choker is complimented by Imperial Topaz earrings and a brooch.

The Duchess Di Giorgio, mindful of the jewellery's historic value had them appraised and repaired for use, by the famous Royal Jeweller and Antique Dealer, Princess Augusta. 

Here the Duchess tries the fit of the newly restored antique choker dating from the 1800's along with its matching tiara.

Duchess Di Giorgio then set about to have an official photo taken to commemorate her new found Royal status. She is proud of her heritage and has become a crusader for the lost Royal history of her country. She hopes that this portrait will spark new interest and publicity in her story. Here she is seen with Princess Augusta and Madame Frumsetta to discuss her entire look that is to match the historic jewels.

Madame Frumsetta suggests the incorporation of a fur stole, made from the finest quality "fake" fur in order to be eco-friendly. 

One step closer to transforming this city-girl into looking like the princess she really is.

A dress was bought at auction and entirely refurbished by the talented Madame Frumsetta. This choice was made for two reasons; to use a dress that once belonged to a historic Royal figure and to save money. The salmon pink calf length dress once belonged to Empress Crystobel and was sold at auction to raise money for a children's feeding scheme in Africana. So even the money wasn't wasted. We see in the picture, Princess Augusta comparing the Pink Topaz brooch to the shade of the dress. 

So we have a new Royal on the block. We look forward to seeing Her Royal Highness, the Princess Donatella, Duchess Di Giorgio, Countess Corvi, strutting her stuff on the world stage. To see the result of her portrait we will have to wait until it is released in the press which will probably end up being posted in one of my "Sunday Portrait Regulars".  She is apparently also invited to the wedding of Queen Gloria next week so excitement will no doubt be high for her and her fans alike.