Colonists in North America may have separated from Great Britain in the 1700s, but American forces have served alongside British allies many times in the centuries since. A strong bond of friendship remains firmly in place between the two nations. So, when Great Britain announced the coronation of King Charles III, many across New England went looking for a way to share in the royal celebrations.  

The Bee’s Knees British Imports in Acton, MA, accepted the challenge and created a wonderful space for people to come in and share stories of their British heritage, reflect upon memories of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth 70 years ago, or simply revel in the festive atmosphere. Coronation Day, May 6, 2023, was celebrated in earnest at the shop.

Lucinda and Trish with WCVB TV host Katie Thompson

| Courtesy of The Bee’s Knees British Imports

“We were excited to create something special to honor the continuation of the British monarchy,” said Lucinda Sears, co-founder of The Bee’s Knees British Imports. “It was so special to see the historical passing of the torch – the transition of the monarchy to the next generation. We love the pomp and circumstance and the sense of ceremony. The ladies truly put their hearts into making this a special day for everyone.”

Courtesy of The Bee’s Knees British ImportsHand-crocheted tea cozies featured King Charles III and his wife, Camilla. The day was feted with tea tastings, English treats like fairy cakes and other baked goods, and coronation chicken sandwiches. There was even a pork pie truck from Thwaites, a British heritage shop in Methuen (a huge hit!).

Pork pies from Thwaites

| Courtesy of The Bee’s Knees British Imports

“As a British person, the monarchy is such a strong part of one’s upbringing,” said Trish Zarola, co-founder of The Bee’s Knees. “An event of this magnitude evokes such a sense of British pride and brings back memories of when I lived in Britain as a kid. It’s all the more special to be able to share a piece of our culture with our community here in America on such a momentous occasion.” 

The response was strong and positive. Local news channels covered the shop extensively, both on radio and television. Close to 300 customers from across New England came to the shop and online visitors to the website came in droves to find commemorative cups, tea towels, bunting, and other memorabilia to help them celebrate. Just a few of these pieces remain now – highly collectible items that will soon be gone!

In case you missed the celebrations – or if you’re just hoping to sample one of Thwaites’ famous British pork pies – the ladies are already hard at work planning the next festive occasion. The Bee’s Knees will celebrate their 12th birthday on July 8 from 11 a.m. onward. They hope you will join them at 566 Massachusetts Avenue in Acton. For more information, follow them on Facebook or learn more at TheBeesKneesBritishImports.com.

This article was made possible through the support of The Bee’s Knees British Imports.

Sylvie cheers on Jen for her interview

| Courtesy of The Bee’s Knees British Imports

Lucinda and Trish with WCVB TV host Katie Thompson

| Courtesy of The Bee’s Knees British Imports