The Cambridges Join the Queen Of Baking for a Very Berry Christmas

As I begin writing this post, we are less than an hour away from 1 December (officially Christmas time in my book). I adore everything about the festive season and have already kicked off preparations in my own home. In addition to all the festivities, I always enjoy seeing at least a couple of seasonal television specials. This year will be extra special in that department for royal watchers as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have joined forces with the Queen of Baking Mary Berry as they serve a feast to thank those spending the day helping others. There had been rumours about this for a couple of months, and tonight Kensington Palace revealed it will air on BBC One, Monday 16 December at 8 pm.

The photo below will be especially interesting to fans of The Great British Bake Off. For those unfamiliar with the show, Mary Berry was a judge on the show until it moved from the BBC to Channel 4 a couple of years ago. They're pictured with Nadiya Hussain who was crowned the winner of the 2015 series. Nadiya recently opened up about severe trauma in her life and the role childhood sexual abuse played in her adult life and her battle with anxiety and PTSD. The photo below, which appeared to be shot just before food was served, was taken by Matt Porteous who took private photos after Prince Louis' christening and last year's Cambridge Christmas card.

Filming for the special actually began at RHS Wisley in September when Kate was joined by Mary to officially open 'Back To Nature'. With piping bags in hand to decorate cakes, the pair discussed Kate's work supporting children's earliest years. Hello! reports it's Kate's "most substantial television appearance to date", with a source adding: "You get a really good sense of who she is - maybe more so than before."

You might recall the Court Circular recorded an engagement with Action on Addiction for the Duchess on 13 November. It turns out the visit to alcohol-free bar the Brink in Liverpool saw the Duchess and Mary meet people supported by the charity at the UK's first dry bar. Kate opened the Brink back in 2012, and we can expect to see footage from the visit during the show. There's been a marked increase in private engagements for Kate of late; I think filming for this show has been partly the reason. I believe the reception with nurses at the Rosewood Hotel we chatted about last week was the setting for the Christmas party with Mary, whilst the Duchess' two days with Kingston Hospital Maternity Unit may possibly be connected to her project which we'll hear more about early next year.

We'll also see William and Mary visit the Passage Charity and meet some of the 130,000 people helped by the charity’s resource centre, homelessness prevention projects and two innovative accommodation services. William first visited the Passage with Diana as a child and became patron earlier this year.

More from Hello!:

'A source told HELLO!: "The Duke and Duchess were joined by Mary on several different engagements over the past couple of months and showed her some of the charities and patronages close to their hearts to explain a bit about why they do what they do. They wanted to show her why they care so much about these organisations and Mary comes up with ideas for recipes for the event."

In a conversation between Mary and William, filmed during a secret visit to the homeless charity the Passage last month, the future king paid tribute to his parents and grandparents for their charity work over the years. Asked where his own motivation to help came from, the Duke said: "Growing up both of my parents were hugely charitable. My father set up the Prince's Trust. He's involved in so many different organisations. My mother has done her work with homelessness and as you said AIDs and other charities and I think I've grown up in a household which has been very much a case of 'well, we're very lucky - you must give back.'

"And you know, my grandmother becoming Queen at a very young age, in the days when it was a man's world, it was very difficult for her to … make a difference. And she's done it. In her own very unique, distinct way, and you know, my grandmother and my grandfather together are the epitome of public service. And I personally get a lot out of helping people. I find that you hear and you understand and you learn so much more by giving a bit of your time, a bit of your day, to just be around."

Mary Berry said:

"I am honoured that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have invited me to join them on four of their royal charity engagements this Christmas. It will be truly special to see the causes so close to their hearts, as well as to hear all about the amazing support these charities provide. The finale is a big Christmas party and I will be cooking up a feast for them to enjoy. A-one hour Christmas special not to be missed." 

The Duchess looked Berry Festive in a bespoke Alessandra Rich red dress based on the designer's Silk-Jacquard Midi Dress (with thanks to Danielle Stacey). From the Autumn/Winter 2019 Collection, and inspired by elegant styles from the 1940s, the dress is adorned with white polka dots and petals. It retails for £1,455 at Net-A-Porter. Kate's version has a pussy bow at the front.

I'm very much looking forward to watching it. For those outside the UK, I'm sure it will become available on YouTube within a day of airing.

If you're just joining us, our post on Black Friday/Cyber Monday is here. The team from Black.co.uk are offering readers 30% off their collections.

We'll see the Duchess on Tuesday for the NATO reception at Buckingham Palace.

Kate At Kingston Hospital, Exclusive Black.co.uk Discount & Black Friday Updates

Hello, Hello, I hope all celebrating enjoyed a wonderful Thanksgiving yesterday.

It's time for our annual Black Friday post with an exclusive discount from Black.co.uk and updates on items worn by the Duchess. Before we dive in, a quick update on Duchess Kate's week. The Court Circular records the Duchess spent Tuesday and Wednesday with Kingston Hospital Maternity Unit in London. The NHS hospital aims to make every birth special and ensure hopes and expectations are met. Hello! Magazine reports Kate divided her time between the antenatal, postnatal and labour wards. At this point, there's been no additional news shared by the Palace, but I think we can assume it's linked to Kate's early years project. It's very possible we'll hear more about it during the launch. It's expected to be related to our experiences until five years of age.

Buckingham Palace also confirmed the Duchess will join a host of royals including the Queen, the Prince of Wales, the Duchess of Cornwall, Princess Anne and the Earl of Wessex for a reception for NATO leaders to mark seventy years of the NATO Alliance. The UK is one of NATO’s 12 founding members and London was home to its first headquarters. William will not be there as he's undertaking a short tour of Kuwait and Oman at the request of the Foreign and Commonwealth office next week. We also have confirmation this year's diplomatic reception takes place on Wednesday 11 December. The annual white-tie event is one of a handful of guaranteed tiara appearances. Much like last year, I expect we'll see a nice selection of photos. Do you think Kate will opt for the Lovers Knot or wear another sparkler?

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Once again this year, the team from luxury accessories brand Black.co.uk are offering up to 30% off their collections until Monday. 20% off is automatically applied to the items and readers get an additional 10% off their order with code HRH10 Delivery on UK orders is free, with International Delivery Free on orders over £125. The brand are offering extended Christmas returns until 31 January 2020.

The brand's slogan is 'Give A Little Luxury'. Managing Director Toby Logue travels all over the globe to source the finest fabrics, whilst championing up and coming designers and craftspeople. This year, their animal print scarves are proving particularly popular. Below, the Black and Blue Leopard Print Scarf. Created by a young French designer, the reversible scarf is an abstract interpretation of the classic leopard print scarf. It features contrasting shades of blue on each side.

The Black and Cream Leopard Print Scarf and the Brown Leopard Print Scarf. They are reduced to £54 and £42 respectively with the discount code. 

The Green 'Flying Ducks' Italian Wool Scarf is a striking piece in classic green, blue and russet striped Italian wool dotted with birds in flight. It was crafted in Italy from 100% wool. The shades of green and red offer a seasonal feel.

One of the brand's most popular staples is the Bow Gloves. Made in Italy, they are described as "short black cocktail gloves with an elegant and pristine side bow at the wrist. Made from satin Lycra the gloves are stretchy ensuring a snug flattering fit. They are perfect for weddings, smart day wear and of course the cocktail hour". Below, the gloves in black and navy.

Kate has been credited with bringing back the Headband (also coined the Hatband) as an alternative to the traditional chapeau for royal and family events. They have become a staple in her rotation over the past year. From the Juliette Botterill red style for Archie's christening to a piece from ZARA for the Festival of Remembrance earlier this week, they are a firm favourite in Kate's millinery collection. 

Below, the Black and Grey Cashmere Headbands. They are described as: "Stylish and chic, this cashmere headband is soft, warm and comfortable to wear. Crafted in Italy from 100% cashmere it is designed with a loop which gives the headband a gentle gathered look. Wear with the loop at the front, back or side to ring the changes." They are reduced from £65 to £46.80 with the discount code.

Black Watch Tartan is also a favourite this season, and has long been sported by Kate. She's worn her tartan McQueen dress on a number of occasions. Emulate the look with the Oversized Cashmere Scarf and (not forgetting our male readers) the Black Watch Tartan Superfine Cashmere Cravat Scarf Set from the mens collection. Both are splendid gift options. 

Two tone scarves add a nice pop of colour to a neutral look. Below, the Fern to Moss Cashmere and Silk Scarf in rich fern shades fading subtly to a moss green and the very seasonal Claret to Cranberry scarf.

The Two Tone Grey Wool Cape is a versatile piece which can be worn as a cape or a wrap. We also see the Navy and Grey Herringbone Cashmere Poncho and the Latte Cashmere Coatigan.

Taupe Suede and Leopard Print Ballerina Slippers have a well padded foot bed in plush velour. 

A selection of winter warmers include Ladies Blue Marl Cashmere Gloves, The 100% Pyrenean wool Tricolour Beret made in France, Grey Mid Length Cashmere Wrist Warmers and the Burgundy Cashmere Beanie.

With the return of Downton Abbey for a fantastic movie earlier this autumn, I couldn't help but notice a few pieces in keeping with Lady Mary and Lady Edith's timeless style including the Ladies Chocolate Brown and Caramel Leather Driving Gloves, Cream Cashmere and Chantilly Lace Shawl and Long Black Satin Gloves.

The mens collection is packed with gift options too such as the Black Swarovski Pocket Square, the Navy and Tobacco Leather Driving Gloves, the Grey Cable Knit Slouch Beanie and the Flame Orange Check Superfine Cashmere Cravat Scarf Set.

Don't forget to enter HRH10 at the checkout. Click here to view the full collection.

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In Kate related clothing and jewellery updates, get 20% off Kate's much loved Mirabelle Lolita earrings with code CYBER20

Take 25% off the Missoma Zenyu earrings Kate wore in Pakistan with discount code BF25

The Monica Vinader Siren Wire earrings in green onyx are reduced from £115 to £80.

Kate's J Crew Crystal and Pearl earrings are available with a 40% discount with the code WHYWAIT

The discount code WHYWAIT also works for Kate's Mockneck Supersoft Sweater. The Duchess owns the piece in Heather Loden Green.

Kate's Really Wild Cashmere Mix Cable Crew sweater worn on the 2016 royal tour of Canada is reduced by 30%.

ShopBop are offering 25% off full-price items including a range of Smythe Duchess blazers.

Nordstrom are offering up to 50% off in their cyber sale including a number of brands favoured by the Duchess.

And Bobbi Brown is offering 25% off all orders. Kate wore products by the brand on her wedding day.

Don't forget to share any Kate related deals in the comments.

The Duchess In Green Beulah For Tusk Reception & Misses Awards "Due To Children"

Good evening, dear readers! As you may have heard the Duchess of Cambridge did not join her husband at the annual Tusk Awards tonight "due to the children". Kensington Palace did not clarify the reason, expand on whether or not one or more of the children are under the weather or if it's related to another matter entirely. The rumour mill has gone into overdrive about an imminent pregnancy announcement for Kate. Whilst this is certainly possible, I do not believe it's the reason for her absence as earlier today she joined a private tea and reception for finalists.

KP shared several photos from the event.

Prince William became patron of conservation charity Tusk Trust in December 2005 and has been supporting their work through a series of public engagements and behind the scenes work since. Most recently, he visited Tusk projects in Namibia and Tanzania in 2018. Below, the Duke and Duchess meeting guests.

Tonight's awards were held at the Empire Cinema in Leicester Square before a reception at Kate's patronage, the National Portrait Gallery.

The Tusk Conservation Awards aim to highlight the outstanding achievements of individuals working within the field of conservation. From practical field work to successful environmental education, these awards recognise the achievements of individuals who are ensuring the future of Africa and bringing the challenges faced by the continent to a global audience. Kensington Palace said: "For almost 30 years, Tusk has pioneered successful conservation action in Africa by protecting wildlife, empowering communities and advancing the frontline in the fight against the illegal wildlife trade."

William presented three awards including the award for 'Conservation in Africa' to turtle biologist Tomas Diagne who has devoted most of his life to eliminating threats to turtles and tortoises across West Africa.

During a speech, William said "Earlier today, Catherine and I spent some time with the nominees and finalists. Their bravery, single-minded determination, and commitment to African conservation is deeply deeply humbling."

He continued "My generation and those following are acutely aware that we cannot simply carry on as we are. We have to move faster and more effectively to find ways to balance our demands on this planet with the nature we share it with."

Kate selected her Beulah London Yahvi midi dress earlier today. The £550 piece was described as "This tailored crepe below-the-knee dress has a slim fitting sleeve adorned with covered buttons, with a fluted frill cuff detail. Fitted at the waist with a full midi length skirt, this dark green dress has covered button detailing to the side with a split opening that falls just above the knee." Kate debuted it in January for a Family Action engagement.

It looks like Kate teamed the dress with her olive green Gianvito Rossi 85 pumps.

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Additionally, the Court Circular recorded three private engagements yesterday, including an early years Royal Foundation meeting, a reception with representatives from the nursing profession and the Nursing Now campaign of which Kate is patron. A couple of guests shared a little more information on social media including news guests enjoyed drinks, canapes and Christmas activities before William and Kate arrived.

It was held at the Rosewood Hotel in London.

The Duke and Duchess also met with the King and Queen of Bhutan. Readers will recall William and Kate were warmly hosted by King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema during their official visit to Bhutan in 2016.

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As we're catching up on news generally, fans of the Queen of Baking Mary Berry will be pleased to know Kate is said to be teaming up with her for a Christmas special. The Mirror revealed the Duchess is expecting to join Berry and a selection of VIPs to create a festive feast for charity workers on duty over Christmas. Kate has met Mary on a number of occasions over the years, most recently at RHS Wisley. HRH once revealed she is "a big fan of her cookbooks and cakes". We should hear more on this in the coming weeks.

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Rebecca English reports Kate's private secretary Catherine Quinn will be moving on from her role after Christmas. 

'Royal right-hand woman Catherine Quinn has worked as Kate’s private secretary since October 2017, a role that is similar to a chief of staff. She is responsible for everything from organising Kate’s diary and meetings to accompanying her on engagements.

But she has also been instrumental in helping the future queen develop her ‘early years’ project, working with organisations to better support children in order to avoid issues such as addiction, social exclusion and crime in later life.

The high-flying Oxford-educated mother-of-one’s appointment was seen as sign of the duchess’s determination to ‘beef up’ her office and public profile as a working royal and future Princess of Wales.

Miss Quinn had been working a chief operating officer at the University of Oxford's Saïd Business School, and previously worked as head of grant-giving at global charitable healthcare foundation the Wellcome Trust.'

It will be interesting to see who is chosen to succeed Ms Quinn, who brought a wealth of experience to the table. Kate's assistant private secretary Natalie Barrows, who is very visible by Kate's side at quite a lot of events, could take the role. We could also see someone entirely new in the coming months.

Hope you all have a great weekend! I expect we'll hear further engagement announcements any day now.

The Duchess in Black Lace McQueen For Royal Variety Performance

It was an evening of entertainment and glamorous guests for the annual Royal Variety Performance at London's Palladium Theatre.

The Duke and Duchess arriving.

The Royal Variety Performance takes place every year and is held in aid of the Royal Variety Charity. The money raised from the show helps hundreds of entertainers throughout the UK, who are in need of help and assistance as a result of old age, ill-health, or hard times. In particular, the charity assists former members of the entertainment industry living in Brinsworth House, a residential home in Twickenham, which is owned and run by the charity.

Plans to improve Brinsworth House are currently underway with a fundraising campaign. The Chairman of the Royal Variety Charity, Giles Cooper, recently said that "the need for care is evolving & requirements & standards have rightly improved, so our plan is to upgrade and regenerate Brinsworth House. With your support, we can achieve just that!" In the background, one can see an image of the Queen and Prince Philip attending the performance in 1955.

Kate received a beautiful posy featuring flowers and foliage from the 'Frosty Winter Garden' at Brinsworth House.

Kate receiving the posy.

An overview before guests began to arrive.

The Duchess told the cast of Mary Poppins, including Petula Clark, Charlie Stemp and Zizi Strallen, that George and Charlotte wanted to go with them to the show, but she told them "not on a school night".

The Duke and Duchess take their seats.

It dates back all the way to 1912 when the inaugural performance was watched by King George V and Queen Mary. In July 1919, a second royal show was performed. Held at London Coliseum, the show was staged as a 'celebration of peace' and, as the official announcement expressed it, "had been commanded by the King to show his appreciation of the generous manner in which artistes of the variety stage had helped the numerous funds connected with the War".

It is believed to be one of the few charities in the UK that has an unbroken line of patronage from the reigning monarch since George V in the early twentieth century. Queen Elizabeth II is the current sole life-patron of the charity. Below, the poster for the 1930 performance.

In more recent years, we've seen Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall, the Cambridges and the Sussexes alternate attending the event. It's William and Kate's third time at the Royal Variety. They first attended in 2014, Kate repeated her black lace DVF gown. In 2017, the Duchess debuted a sparkling blue Jenny Packham design.

Hosted by Rob Beckett and Romesh Ranganathan, the evening included performances from the cast of Mary Poppins, Lewis Capaldi, Mabel, Robbie Williams, the cast of Come From Away, and a special collaboration by Emeli Sandé and Manchester’s Bee Vocal choir. Below, a great shot shared by Kensington Palace.

They received a very comedic introduction by the hosts. The Mail reports:

'The comic pair introduced the royal couple and joked that they were on a 'date night' as the camera focused on them laughing and giggling in the Royal Box - William nodding with mock seriousness.

The comedians asked whether they had paid the babysitter to stay 'until 12 or 1' - joking: 'It's always worth £20 for the extra hour.'

Whilst meeting six-year-old Aurelia from an acrobatic group, Kate said George and Charlotte love doing cartwheels at home.

More from the Mail Online:

'William was left in stitches was he was jokingly handed a ‘commemorative’ tea towel by the show’s hosts, comedians Rob Beckett and Ramesh Ranganthan, which had their faces on instead of his and Kate’s. The prince roared with laughter and said he would try to find something to do with it.

Beckett said: ‘Maybe you know someone who might want it. ‘ ‘Yeah, the dog will love it,’ joked William, who told the the two men that hopefully they could relax now, When Kate was given a bouquet of flowers by two youngsters who star in the new Mary Poppins musical, Nuala Peberby, 14, and Fred Wilcox, nine, the prince told them: ‘How come I get a dodgy tea towel and she gets some flowers?’

Nuala revealed afterwards that Kate had told her that George and Charlotte - particularly her daughter - love performing and putting on little shows at home. ‘She said that her children love performing at home, particularly Charlotte,’ she said. ‘She told us how lucky we were to be on stage in the West End and asked how we managed to do it with all our school work. I can’t tell you how exciting it was to meet them. ‘ 

Another posy for the Duchess as she departed.

A video from the event with footage of William and Kate meeting performers.

The Duchess chose a stunning black lace Alexander McQueen gown for the night. The bespoke piece features puffed sleeves, lace overlay, a fitted silhouette, velvet detail on the neckline and waist. and an intricate floral pattern. Kate has a penchant for this style of gown, I expect we'll see it again on at least a couple of occasions. The tailoring is beautifully done as always by McQueen and the touch of velvet against the lace has a very luxurious, seasonal feel to it.

A look at the back of the dress.

Embed from Getty Images

Kate teamed it with her Jimmy Choo Romy 100 pumps.

And her Jimmy Choo Celeste black velvet clutch.

Kate accessorised with her statement Erdem Floral earrings. They are described: "Elegant, refined, and feminine, these Floral earrings by Erdem illustrate the designer’s attraction to romanticism. This accessory is defined by the layering of numerous mother-of-pearl beads with orange, black, and gray crystals." Below the earrings with a different centre stone to Kate's.

It's another evening event for William and Kate on Thursday for the Tusk awards.