INSIDE The German State Reception at Windsor: Crown lighting, Michelin menu and last night’s “freeze the hall” moment
A lavish night fit for the British Royal Family – and one of the most high-profile diplomatic events of the year
Last night, Windsor Castle once again became the focus of international attention when the British Royal Family hosted a State Reception for German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and his wife. This was not just a regular diplomatic party, but a display of Royal soft power – from protocol, fashion, to table setting and every little detail.
And according to those present, “everything was calculated down to the centimeter”.
Crown lighting: Royal Jewels shine in the night
One of the most talked-about moments was the appearance of “rarely seen” jewels from the Royal Collection.
Queen Camilla wore the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara – a symbol that once belonged to Queen Elizabeth II.
Although absent from the event, Princess Catherine was still mentioned as the Royal Family allowed some of her jewelry to be displayed in the Royal Room – a detail that surprised fans.
An antique Sapphire brooch from the time of Queen Victoria was also seen on the ceremonial gown of another senior member, attracting attention because this was the first time it appeared at a diplomatic event since 2019.
“It was like a living jewelry show,” shared a royal fashion historian.
40m long banquet table, German crystal glasses, and a detail that made diplomats nod their heads
The reception was held at St. George’s Hall, where the nearly 40m long banquet table was set with the traditional collection of British Royal antique silver and crystal.
What's interesting:
The wine glasses last night were from German crystal makers, deliberately inserted by the Royal Family to show respect for the host country's culture.
The silver cutlery used at the banquet was from the time of George IV, usually only used on special state occasions.
Along the banquet table, 160 small vases filled with white roses and lilies of the valley – chosen in the colors of the German flag (black – red – yellow), but so subtle that no one noticed right away.
A diplomatic source said:
“Only those familiar with high-level protocol saw the subtle message hidden in last night's arrangements.”
Michelin-standard menu – and the dish that was “shocking” because it was so different
According to newly released royal documents, last night's menu was created by Windsor's 2-star Michelin chef team.
Includes:
Starter: Lobster and beetroot terrine
Main course: Royal venison in red wine sauce
Side dish: Bavarian-style potato chips in homage to German cuisine
Dessert: Madagascar vanilla ice cream with caramel pear sauce
What surprised guests the most: There was no traditional British dessert – a move seen as a sign the Royal Family wanted to highlight German culture rather than promote itself.
A “freeze the whole hall” moment between two Royals
A sneaky video circulating online this morning shows a moment that left the table silent for a few seconds.
According to:
As Queen Camilla stood up to raise her glass in response, Prince William and another senior royal appeared to exchange a “tense” look.
Many body language experts believe the moment was linked to internal debates about protocol, especially as some royal items were allowed to be displayed last night without prior notice.
However, Kensington Palace declined to comment.
Political and diplomatic significance behind the lavish banquet
Behind the extravagance, this reception is tasked with strengthening:
British-German relations after Brexit
Promoting defense cooperation
Affirming the role of the Royal Family in major foreign affairs ceremonies
A professor of European policy commented:
“The details last night – from the crystal glasses to the menu – had a political message. The Royal Family never does anything just to ‘look good’.”
And what has the audience still talking about…
Shortly after the banquet, a behind-the-scenes photo was leaked showing the German President and Queen Camilla chatting privately near the jewelry display area. Some jewelry experts say the photo shows a piece of jewelry “not seen for a long time.”
The royal family has not confirmed it – but has not denied it either.