A Royal Experience in Rumson

While only hundreds were invited to the William and Kate’s Wedding reception, billions of people across the world found ways to celebrate their union with them.

Over a million people traveled to London to try to get a glimpse of the Royal Wedding. There were street fairs and festivals in honor of the new couple. Some local women planned a special celebratory dinner with their finest china. And thirteen women in Rumson celebrated with a formal slumber party complete with tea, scones and tiaras.

Cynthia Wilby of Cherry Tree Lane knew she wanted to do something special in honor of the Royal Wedding. A major fan of Princess Diana, she followed her life loyally and the marriage of her son was no different.

“I’ve been a Diana Collector for years. I must have 60 books showing everything about her. I have them displayed all around the window sills, on the bars and around the house so that people can look at them as we celebrate the Royal Wedding,” said Wilby.

Wilby sent out formal invitations to all of her girlfriends, including her sorority sisters from college. 12 women attended this special event, including 5 Kappa Alpha Thetas who traveled from across the country to be at this royal celebration.

Wilby had very strict rules for her elegant affair. “The dress is white gloves, tiaras and elegant nightgowns,” explained Wilby. “Also, there will be no American slang, only the King’s English. No American smiling with teeth, they must keep their mouths closed. And, the first time they see the queen, that’s me, they must curtsy.”

And, if the women forget the rules, Wilby said they just have to remember the three P’s: “Polite, Proper and Prudence,” she said.

Wilby had a full schedule for the event. At 7:00 a.m. the women enjoyed English Tea with lemon served with real strawberry scones. The tea was served in antique royal mugs Wilby has collected over the years. After the women watched the wedding together, they moved into the dining rooms where they enjoyed a brunch with beautiful china, Tiffany silverware and Waterford glasses filled with orange juice and champagne.

 “This party enhanced the Royal wedding with the ambiance of a pure British experience,” said Sherry Henderson, one of the 12 guests.

Elizabeth Albright, another guest, agreed. “It was so special to watch the wedding with fun friends with such an elegant celebration!”