Today Prince Charles gave me an MBE for Services to Fair Trade and the fashion industry. (I wore a People Tree dress of course, designed by Bora Aksu in hand-woven silk and hand embroidered at Swallows in Bangladesh and a pair of Terra Plana killer heels).
Prince Charles is my hero, but I had hoped to get the award from the Queen as she is more my height. You wait with other recipients in a grand hall surrounded by Rembrandts – amazing! Then you’re shown how to curtsy (which I performed less smoothly after chatting with Prince Charles).
Your family is sitting in the audience and the room is full of elegant chamber music, your name is called. “Safia, Mrs Minney for services to Fair Trade and the fashion Industry,” and a very sweet usher whispering gentle encouragements nudges you forward. 3 steps, a curtsy then the Prince
pins your brooch on and then he’s yours for nearly a minute – well it felt like for ever.
I told Prince Charles how People Tree makes clothes in a sustainable way, hand weaving fabric that is carbon neutral and growing cotton organically. “I would love to send you an organic shirt or two,” I gushed – no stopping me…”I was going to wear an organic gown screen printed with your face and ‘The King of Sustainability’ on it, but even though a friend of your private secretary thought you might be pleased, the People Tree team thought it might upset your Mum.” “Oh no I shouldn’t worry about that,” he said kindly – “well sounds very clever all this carbon neutral stuff. I hope you find your award an encouragement!” He then extended his hand to shake mine – and off I go – having talked just a bit too much. My friend Geetie Singh got one too last week.
Divisional Sergeant Major David Fagg who got a Victoria cross. Who was the only other recipient wearing a red dress – took a shine to me! And a close up of my brooch
What I’d do if I had a re-run? – If I ever get another award I promise to shut up and be talked to.
Me and my family. Husband James, Daughter Natty and Mum Liselotte.
