The department headed by the Marshal of the Court is the largest of the Royal Household. It gives shape to events and receptions, both at home and abroad, hosted by members of the Royal House, such as state banquets, award ceremonies, ‘highflyer’ lunches and other gatherings. The department also oversees the day-to-day running of the royal living quarters and offices.
Household and general staff
Household and general staff ensure that residential and working palaces look smart and well maintained.
Doorkeepers and footmen
Anyone entering a palace as a guest of the King or for a meeting or event encounters staff of the Department of the Marshal of the Court. Doorkeepers are responsible for the initial reception of guests.
Footmen help to provide hospitality within the palaces. At receptions and dinners, they ensure that guests lack for nothing. When performing their duties they wear different uniforms depending on the nature of the event. In May 2017 new uniforms were adopted for both the footmen and the doorkeepers.
Kitchen
The chefs and kitchen assistants prepare meals in the big central kitchen of Noordeinde Palace. The kitchen is equipped to prepare meals for up to 150 people. State banquets are usually held in the Citizens’ Hall of the Royal Palace in Amsterdam, which can accommodate 240 dinner guests.
Preparation and execution
The Events Office coordinates the preparation and execution of events.
Various sections of the Department of the Marshal of the Court work together on tasks such as laying tables, adhering to a strict protocol. Staff of the Wardrobe and Linen Department provide the tablecloths and napkins. Staff of the Silver and China Pantry and the Yeoman of the Wine Cellar measure the exact position of plates, glasses and cutlery, to ensure that they are all equally spaced. Special ornaments, such as candelabras, bowls and vases are placed on the tables. Staff of the Flower Department arrange and place fresh bouquets.
Valet and dresser
The valet assists the King in his choice of dress and medals to be worn, while a dresser performs the same service for Queen Máxima.
The Department of the Marshal of the Court is part of the Royal Household.