Category Archives: Headlines

Belgian Royals, Headlines, Royal Family of Belgium

Prince Emmanuel of Belgium Changes Course of Study, Continues His University Education in Brussels, the Palace Confirms

Leave a comment
Portrait courtesy of Monarchie Belge/Bas Bogaerts

In Brussels, the Palais Royal de Bruxelles has confirmed that His Royal Highness Prince Emmanuel of Belgium has changed his course of study and will continue his education in the Belgian capital.

The 20-year-old son of Their Majesties King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of the Belgians has withdrawn from UC Leuven-Limburg (UCLL) in Leuven after completing his first semester, where he had been pursuing a bachelor’s degree in International Business Management and Marketing, taught in English.

Prince Emmanuel has since enrolled in a French-language program in business development at ISTEC Bruxelles, École supérieure de commerce et de marketing, where he is following the program, “chargé d’affaires commerciales.” The course is understood to offer a more practical, hands-on approach, including opportunities for professional placements.

According to the Palais Royal, the transition was carried out discreetly and reflects a personal decision by the Prince following a reassessment of his academic direction. Despite the change, Prince Emmanuel’s studies are expected to proceed without delay, provided he completes his examinations by the end of the academic year.

Dutch Royal Family, Greek Royal Family, Headlines, Royal Weddings, Swedish Royals

Valentino Garavani, Legendary Italian Couturier and Fashion Designer to Royalty, Dies at 93.

Photo: Wikipedia

Italian fashion designer Valentino Garavani, one of the most influential figures in haute couture and prêt-à-porter, has died in Rome, Italy, at the age of 93.

His death was announced in a statement by the Fondazione Valentino Garavani e Giancarlo Giammetti, which said the designer passed away peacefully at his home in Rome, surrounded by loved ones.

Born Valentino Clemente Ludovico Garavani in Voghera, Italy, on May 11, 1932, Valentino founded his fashion house in Rome in 1960 together with his longtime companion and business partner Giancarlo Giammetti. The Valentino name would go on to become synonymous with refined elegance, meticulous craftsmanship, and a distinctive aesthetic that spanned both haute couture and prêt-à-porter. Among the house’s most recognizable signatures was “Valentino red,” a vivid shade that became emblematic of the designer’s work.

Over a career that extended for more than four decades, Valentino dressed heads of state, celebrities, and royalty, establishing himself as one of the defining couturiers of the late twentieth century.  Valentino retired in 2008, though his influence on fashion continued to be widely felt.

Valentino’s legacy is also closely linked to several historic royal weddings.

In 1995, he designed the wedding gown worn by Ms. Marie-Chantal Miller for her marriage to His Royal Highness Crown Prince Pavlos of Greece. The wedding took place on July 1, 1995, at St. Sophia’s Cathedral in London. The couture gown was an ivory silk creation adorned with pearls, featuring intricate lacework, a high neckline, and a 4.5-meter Chantilly lace train, crafted by 25 seamstresses over four months.

  • Portrait courtesy of David Seidner.
  • Portrait courtesy of David Seidner.
  • Portrait courtesy of Patrick Lichfield, the 5th Earl of Lichfield.

In 2002, Valentino designed the wedding dress of Ms. Máxima Zorreguieta Cerruti for her marriage to His Royal Highness Prince Willem-Alexander, Prince of Orange. The wedding took place on February 2, 2002, in Amsterdam, with the civil ceremony held at the Beurs van Berlage and the religious ceremony at the Nieuwe Kerk. The iconic gown was made from ivory mikado silk and featured a cowl neckline, three-quarter sleeves, lace inserts, and a dramatic five-meter train.

  • Portrait courtesy of Jeroen van der Meyde/RVD.
  • Portrait courtesy of Jeroen van der Meyde/RVD.

Valentino’s final major royal bridal commission came in 2013, when he designed the wedding gown of Her Royal Highness Princess Madeleine of Sweden for her marriage to Mr. Christopher O’Neill. The wedding took place on June 8, 2013, at the Slottskyrkan (Royal Palace chapel) in Stockholm. The gown was crafted from silk organza with appliquéd Chantilly lace and was accompanied by a lace-edged cathedral veil.

  • Portrait courtesy of Ewa-Marie Rundquist/Kungalige Hovstaterna.
  • Portrait courtesy of Brigitte Grenfeldt/HRH Princess Madeleine of Sweden.
  • Portrait courtesy of Brigitte Grenfeldt/HRH Princess Madeleine of Sweden.

Valentino Garavani’s work bridged classical couture traditions and modern luxury fashion, earning him international recognition and lasting cultural significance. Through the foundation he shared with Giammetti, his legacy in fashion, art, and philanthropy continues.

Grand Ducal Family of Luxembourg, Headlines

Grand Duke Guillaume of Luxembourg Delivers First Christmas Address as Head of State

Photo courtesy of the Maison du Grand-Duc

On Wednesday evening, in Luxembourg City, His Royal Highness Grand Duke Guillaume of Luxembourg delivered his first Christmas address from the Palais Grand-Ducal following his accession to the throne on October 3rd, 2025.

In his address, the Grand Duke spoke about values including solidarity, openness, tolerance, and social cohesion, which he described as central to life in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. He stated that these values are lived daily and contribute to trust and stability within society.

The Grand Duke referred to his visit across the country on October 4th, following his swearing-in ceremony as Grand Duke, and thanked the public for the welcome he received and for the confidence placed in him. 

He said that he and Her Royal Highness Grand Duchess Stéphanie of Luxembourg intend to remain present throughout the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. He also noted that the traditional Joyeuses Entrées, which follow a succession to the throne, will take place next year, with visits planned to five regions.

Turning to the Christmas season, the Grand Duke said that the period carries different meanings for people, including religious observance, time with family, and a pause from everyday life. He stated that Christmas encourages care for others, regardless of individual beliefs or traditions.

Addressing international developments, the Grand Duke referred to the war in Ukraine, stating that it has affected peace and security in Europe, including for the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg as a member of the European Union. He also referred to acts of solidarity within Europe and support for Ukraine.

The Grand Duke also addressed social conditions within the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. While noting the country’s prosperity, he said that poverty and hardship remain present, including challenges linked to housing and living costs. He referred in particular to the pressures faced by single parents and young people.

Environmental responsibility was also addressed. The Grand Duke spoke about responsibility toward the environment and future generations and referred to the importance of institutional stability and long-term continuity.

The address also included references to dialogue, mutual respect, and coexistence in a diverse society. The Grand Duke stated that differences of opinion and origin are not obstacles but part of society in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.

Religious faith was addressed in the context of Christmas, with the Grand Duke stating that faith offers hope to believers. He added that values such as compassion, solidarity, and peace are shared across beliefs.

At the end of his speech, the Grand Duke thanked those whose work supports society, including volunteers and those serving during the festive period. He specifically mentioned healthcare workers, emergency services, the police, the armed forces, and cross-border workers.

He concluded the address by extending Christmas and New Year wishes to the people of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and beyond.

Headlines

Princess Talita von Fürstenberg, Granddaughter of Fashion Designer Diane von Fürstenberg, is engaged to Be Married

Photo courtesy of Talita von Fürstenberg/Instagram

This morning, it was announced that Princess Talita von Fürstenberg is engaged to Mr. Rocco Brignone de Brabant.

Born Princess Talita Natasha von Fürstenberg on May 7, 1999, she is the daughter of Prince Alexander Egon von Fürstenberg and his first wife, Alexandra von Fürstenberg, née Miller. 

Princess Talita is also the niece of Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Marie Chantal of Greece and Ms. Pia Getty. Princess Talita’s maternal grandparents are billionaire Robert Warren Miller, the co-founder of Duty Free Shoppers (DFS), and his wife, María Clara Miller, née Pesantes Becerra.  

Princess Talita’s paternal grandparents are the late Prince Egon von Fürstenberg and legendary fashion designer Diane von Fürstenberg.

Mr. Rocco Brignone de Brabant, 24, is the son of Mr. Filippo Brignone and Ms. Karina de Brabant. Mr. Rocco Brignone de Brabant is the grandson of the late Gianfranco Brignone, an Italian banker who founded the private community, Costa Careyes, in the state of Jalisco, México.

Mr. Rocco Brignone de Brabant is the founder of Laúd Tequila. 

After the news broke of her engagement, Princess Talita took to social media and wrote, “Forever!!!!!!!!!!!! I love you so much my heart is bursting.”

Congratulations to the couple.

Headlines

H.R.H. Princess Theodora of Greece Marries Los Angeles Attorney, Mr. Matthew Kumar, in Athens, Greece

On Saturday, September 28th, 2024, Her Royal Highness Princess Theodora of Greece married Mr. Matthew Kumar at the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Annunciation in Athens.

His Eminence the Metropolitan of Syros, Dorotheos II presided over the Greek Orthodox wedding ceremony.  

In a press release from the Greek Royal Family noted that the:

“…couple’s desire to have their wedding in Athens reflects their love for Greece, the strong ties they maintain with the country, and their desire to share Greek culture and hospitality and identity with their guests.”

Princess Theodora, the second daughter of Her Majesty Queen Anne Marie of the Hellenes and the late King Constantine II of the Hellenes, wore a custom gown by Athens-based designer Ms. Celia Kritharioti and the stunning Khedive of Egypt tiara, traditionally worn by the daughters and granddaughters of the late King Frederik IX and Queen Ingrid of Denmark on their wedding day.

Mr. Matthew Kumar, a Los Angeles-based attorney, wore a custom suit. 

Royal guests attending the wedding included:

Her Majesty Queen Anne Marie of the Hellenes, His Royal Highness Prince Nikolaos of Greece, Their Royal Highnesses Prince Philippos and Princess Nina of Greece. 

Their Royal Highnesses Crown Prince Pavlos and Crown Princess Marie Chantal of Greece, His Royal Highness Prince Constantine Alexios of Greece, His Royal Highness Prince Achilleas-Andreas of Greece, His Royal Highness Prince Odysseas Kimon of Greece, His Royal Highness Prince Aristides Stavros of Greece and Her Royal Highness Princess Maria Olympia of Greece.

Her Royal Highness Princess Alexia of Greece and her husband, Mr. Carlos Morales Quintana, Miss Arrietta Morales-Quintana, Miss Anna-Maria Morales-Quintana, Mr. Carlos Morales-Quintana, and Miss Amelia Morales-Quintana.

Her Majesty Emerita Queen Sofia of Spain, Her Royal Highness Princess Irene of Greece, Her Royal Highness Princess Irene of Greece, Her Royal Highness Infanta Elena of Spain, Her Royal Highness Infanta Christina Spain, Mr. Juan Valentín de Todos los Santos Urdangarin y Borbón, Mr. Miguel de Todos los Santos Urdangarin y Borbón, and Miss Irene de Todos los Santos Urdangarin y Borbón.

Her Royal Highness Princess Benedikte of Denmark, Her Serene Highness Princess Alexandra of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg, Countess of Ahlefeldt-Laurvig-Bille, and Count Michael of Ahlefeldt-Laurvig-Bille, and Count Richard von Pfeil und Klein-Ellguth.

Their Serene Highnesses Prince Gustav and Princess Carina of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg, Their Royal Highnesses Crown Prince Alexander and Crown Princess Katherine of Serbia, Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Savoy-Aosta, and Ms. Marina Karella.

Her Royal Highness Hereditary Princess Ekaterina of Hanover, Their Royal Highness Prince Christian and Princess Alessandra of Hanover, and Ms. Chantal Hochuli.

After the wedding ceremony, the couple and their guests attended a lavish wedding reception at the One & Only Aesthesis Hotel at Glyfada Beach.

Photos courtesy of the office of the Greek Royal Family/Nikolas Kominis/Studio Kominis

German Princely Families, Headlines, Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg

H.S.H. Princess Mafalda of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg Bapatized At Schloss Berleburg

Her Serene Highness Princess Mafalda of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg, the daughter of Their Serene Highnesses Prince Gustav and Princess Carina of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg was baptized this morning in the private chapel at Schloss Berleburg.

Pastor Dr. Ulf Lückel, a longtime friend of Prince Gustav and Princess Carina, presided over the baptism with close family and friends in attendance.

Princess Mafalda’s godparents are:

Her Royal Highness Princess Marie of Denmark.  Princess Carina is the godmother of Princess Marie’s daughter, Her Excellency Countess Athena of Monpezat.  

His Highness Prince Philipp of Hesse.  Prince Philipp is the 1st cousin of Prince Gustav. Prince Philip’s mother is Her Serene Highness Princess Tatiana of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg, the sister of the late Prince Richard of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg. 

On June 10, 2006, Prince Gustav and then Miss Carina Axelsson attended the wedding between Prince Philipp and Laetitia Bechtolf in Panker, Germany.

Her Highness Hereditary Princess Kelly of Saxe-Coburg und Gotha.  Princess Carina is the godmother of Prince Philip of Saxe-Coburg und Gotha, the second child of Their Highnesses Hereditary Prince Hubertus and Hereditary Princess Kelly of Saxe-Coburg und Gotha.

His Royal Highness Prince Philippos of Greece.  Prince Philippos is the youngest son of Her Majesty Queen Anne-Marie of the Hellenes and the late King Constantine of the Hellenes.  Prince Philippos is the first cousin of Prince Gustav.

Baroness Helle Reedtz-Thott is a longtime and close friend of Prince Gustav and Princess Carina.  Princess Carina is the godmother of Baron Otto and Baroness Helle’s only daughter, Eloise.

Absent from today’s baptism was His Highness Hereditary Prince Christian Kraft of Hohenlohe-Oehringen.

After the baptism, the Princely family and guests attended a reception at Schloss Berleburg.

Princess Mafalda was born on Friday, April 26th, in the United States with the help of a surrogate.  Prince Gustav and Princess Carina are also proud parents of His Serene Highness Prince Gustav Albrecht of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg who was born on May 26th, 2023, in the United States with the help of a surrogate.

Headlines

His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan Attends the 2022 Sun Valley Economic Forum.

On Thursday, July 7, 2022, His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II of Jordan participated 2022 Sun Valley Economic Forum.
 
On the sidelines of the forum, His Majesty King Abdullah II and Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II participated in meetings with CEOs and representatives from various major international and US companies.
Discussions focused on a myriad of topics such as investment opportunities in Jordan, which recently launched Economic Modernization Vision, in addition to the potential for cooperation between international companies and the local private sector to fullfil this vision over the next decade, in partnership with the Jordanian government.
 
Meetings were also held with executives from international companies that work in e-commerce, the textile industry, transport and the automotive industry, AI, and filmmaking, which are part of the promising sectors highlighted in the economic vision under growth drivers.

Discussions also covered the global ramifications of the Ukraine crisis on food and energy security, and the importance of working collectively to counter their impact on the global economy.
 
The annual forum is held with the participation of international and US political, economic, and media leaders to discuss global political and economic developments and their implications.