The Coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla is just around the corner, making it high time to sort out your viewing plans. While most of us will be tailoring our sleep and wake schedules to tune into the historic event, one lucky traveler is looking forward to the trip of a lifetime.
Ragan Cain, the face behind The Frances Flair, a lifestyle brand that shares her appreciation for life through stylish, classic, and colorful musings, is headed to the UK to celebrate the Coronation, which will take place on Saturday, May 6, at 11 a.m. local time.
“I often refer to myself as a royal enthusiast, and as soon as the Coronation dates were announced, I knew I had to go for this once-in-a-lifetime experience,” she tells VERANDA.
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Of course, part of what’s making her trip such a treat is the knowledge that she won’t have to watch the procession from afar—she’ll be able to do so up close and in person.
While there are public Coronation screening sites at Hyde Park, The Green Park, and St James’s Park in London, as well as viewing areas along the 1.3-mile procession route from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey, the overflowing crowds make it impossible to guarantee a direct line of sight to the royals.
“I wasn't sure what existed as far as passes go to get a great view of the Coronation,” Cain admits. “I knew that going into Westminster Abbey wasn't going to be an option (a girl can dream!), but I was hopeful there would be an opportunity to guarantee a chance to see the Coronation procession.”
Fortunately, she had Alabama-based luxury travel advisor Ragan Stone, of Ragan Stone Travel, on her side.
“I am thankful to have formed deep relationships with some of the best connectors in the travel industry, which means that I am often able to bring unique, exclusive experiences to my clients,” Stone tells VERANDA. “In the UK, my go-to travel partner is Nicola Butler. She's been named a Conde Nast Travel Specialist for at least a dozen years and I can always count on her for unrivaled behind-the-scenes access to the British Establishment.”
After countless texts, calls, and emails, Stone was able to procure two tickets to a VIP Coronation viewing experience for Cain and her sister-in-law, who she invited along for the trip.
“This particular experience takes place beyond the barriers of the public viewing access and is limited to 40 guests,” Stone says.
While the VIP viewing pass doesn’t allow Cain to enter Westminster Abbey—that’s strictly reserved for the Royal Family, the prime minister, and heads of state from around the world, Stone says—she will be able to view all those who arrive from a private event directly across from the church.
“Public viewers will have to arrive quite early to see the Coronation procession, which occurs after the ceremony in Westminster Abbey,” Stone says. “But thankfully, Ragan is attending a ticketed, private event which will require no lines, waiting, or crowds during this one-of-a-kind event.”
In addition to the elite viewing area, Ragan’s VIP Coronation pass also grants her access to a private visit at Kensington Place for the Crown to Couture Exhibit.
As far as how much this type of VIP treatment costs? Neither Cain nor Stone is willing to share. “Well, that certainly would spoil all of the fun,” Cain jokes. “In my opinion, you can't put a price tag on a day like this, but if you are interested in other royal opportunities, call Ragan Stone Travel for the answer.”
