You may or may not remember a blog post I wrote a while back about the fantastic window displays at William Ashley on Bloor Street. I had always wondered who was responsible for them and I had a comment show up recently that answered that question. It was from the designer herself! That email exchange lead to me asking (of course) if I could speak to her more about her windows, her design, etc.
That leads me to a very special invitation to attend an event at William and Ashley. The event not only showcased Robbe & Berking, there were also ‘crowns’ on display. That’s right, I said crowns. Royal. Crowns. It was beyond beautiful so let’s get right to the photos.
One thing I would like to point out-I did my own hair and makeup for this event! This is the first time I have actually attempted on my own. I still have some kinks to work out-on the technique side of things, but not too bad:
First, the lovely Michelle-woman behind the windows
She was quite busy with the event itself so I didn’t get to speak with her as much as I would’ve liked too but was happy to have her pose with me for a photo!
There were so many crowns to look at-and not enough time to look at them all! Next to each crown was a description of where it was from, who wore it and other interesting facts. I am going to attempt to post the crowns with their correct titles. They were so beautiful to look at:
And now let’s take a peek at the crowns:
some other things I was fawning over:
But I think one of my favorite parts of the evening was when Herr Ackerman gave a brief talk about the History of Robbe & Berking, and his ‘must have’ pieces. I learned about design and metals and how I absolutely need a special utensil for lamb.
After his talk, I asked if I could get a photo with him. Well, Mr. Ackerman not only granted my wish, he also let me hold one of the crowns in the photo! I was shaking when holding it but luckily the picture is clear:
OH beauty. Look at my face…that should say it all.
To top it all off, there was a ton of beautiful china and flatware-I would expect nothing less of William Ashley. There was champagne, wine, tasty hors d’oeuvres and staff on hand to discuss the pieces. What a wonderful evening!
We also had the opportunity to have our photos taken in crowns. So of course I chose the most “queen-like”
And then surprise, surprise….I go to the coat check to pick up my wrap, and I get handed this:
Whoah….definitely didn’t expect this! Wowza!

Restaurant Guide-but not what you think! This guide lists restaurants where Robbe & Berkin products are used (it's world-wide)
And here we are:
I had the best time at this event! It was wonderfully organized, I learned a lot and got to wear (and hold) a crown or two!
Another thing that really struck me is how interested I was in William Ashley. I have walked by the store hundreds of times and have never stopped in. They are making changes in the store and they are noticeable. The addition of Robbie & Berking with their classical modern twist on silver really caught my eye! I know I will be back in the store again soon!
I am so thankful to the staff at William Ashley and everyone (Michelle!) who put all the effort into making the Robbe & Berking event a success! It really was flawless and so classy! It was nice to feel like a queen!
Have you ever gone to an event like this? Are you interested in fine china and silver? What would attract you?
Lacey
How amazing!!! You look fantastic! 🙂
meredith
@Lacey thanks! I had a great time!
Kerri
You do look awfully comfortable in that crown. And nice touch of giving you a frame in which to put that photo of your crowning glory. The two of you look so cute in your crowns! Looks like a great event!
meredith
@Kerri oh it was an amazing event! I will have to go back
Elaine A (TOBeautyReviews)
oooh awesome I was hoping I’d get to see you in a crown! What a great event! Sadly no, china and silver wear doesn’t interest me 😛 But crowns do!!! LOL! You did an awesome job with your makeup!!
ps – thanks for the pics!
meredith
@Elaine-I felt the same way…but something just drew me to this collection….you should stop in the next time you’re on Bloor Street!
Liz
The emerald crown was my ABSOLUTE fave!!!! You’re right; its the MOST “queen-like” 🙂
meredith
@Liz it was quite heavy but oh so beautiful!
Donna Marie
I’ve never stepped into a William Ashley before. Perhaps one day I shall venture in there to take a peek. Love that pic of the two of you btw! It’s too cute 🙂
meredith
@Donna Marie at the very least, go there for the Teuscher chocolate! It’s divine!
Seriously though the china is AMAZING!
Darwin Smith.
Great job Michelle as you all ways do.
Love Dad xoxo
meredith
@Darwin Agreed! She is amazing-super talented, creative-a total package!
Cherry
ever considered doing a hair tutorial down the road? that’s some professional looking updo, nicely done!
meredith
@Cherry interesting you should say that. I actually bought some hair tools today and am going to start working on doing my own. DIY is starting to interest me.