Earlier this year, we were fortunate enough to receive a prestigious King’s Award, a recognition given to Earlier this year, we were fortunate enough to receive a prestigious King’s Award, a recognition given to UK businesses that have made significant contributions to the nation and its people. One of the most exciting perks of this award is the chance to meet the monarch in person. I was thrilled to receive an invitation and eagerly headed to Windsor Castle for the occasion.

Windsor Castle, the largest inhabited castle in Europe, is a breathtaking site. Its rich history, majestic architecture, and incredible collection of art, armour and swords. It’s a dream for someone like me. Even if you’re not there to meet royalty, a visit to the castle is worth every moment.

On the day of the ceremony, approximately 200 award recipients gathered at the castle. After a delightful reception with champagne and exquisite food, the time came for us to meet the King. The Great Hall was a hive of activity as we waited in a long line, forming what looked like a regal tunnel through which the King would greet us.

This moment turned into a unique lesson in British culture and etiquette. As the King made his way through the line, a large man in a suit attempted to cut in front of me, clearly eager to have a moment with the King before anyone else. In Britain, where queuing is considered a sacred social norm, such breaches are met with swift correction.

Just as the man was about to meet the king, a discreetly positioned bodyguard intervened. With a polite but firm demeanour, the guard informed the man that he had jumped the queue and guided him to the back. The man’s attempt to bypass the line had cost him the opportunity to meet the King, which, fortunately, opened up a spot for me who had been patiently waiting.

The King greeted me warmly, and we briefly discussed my business I took the chance to ask if he knew of any Royals who practiced fencing, to which he responded that perhaps the younger generation might take it up in the future. He even mentioned he would be keen to watch it in the Olympics. The King’s genuine interest and willingness to engage with each recipient were truly inspiring. Despite the grandeur of his role and the opulence of the setting, he remained approachable and attentive, a testament to his dedication to his duties and his people.

Reflecting on the day, I was struck not only by the honour of meeting the King but also by the significance of that brief yet impactful moment of queuing etiquette. The respect for the line, the way it was upheld, and the manner in which rule-breaking was addressed. I feel that learning a sport like fencing instil the values of fairness and is another reason that I love the sport so much.

So, if you ever find yourself in a queue, remember: patience pays off, and you never know who might be watching.

The King’s Award for Enterprise was presented by Mr Russell Representative Deputy Lieutenant to the king and the Mr. Vourou Mayor of Barnet.

To fellow businesses in England, if you believe your company deserves recognition, we highly recommend applying for the King’s Award. It’s a fantastic opportunity to not only meet the King but also to celebrate your achievements with your employees and local dignitaries. The buzz and recognition from such prestigious awards truly invigorate a company and inspire everyone involved.