Ambassador Rudolf Bekink of the Netherlands, with his wife, Austin business executive and Canadian-American Gabrielle de Kuyper Sheshunoff Bekink. Photograph by Carol Ross Joynt.
The dinner in honor of the monarchy of the Netherlands was for 60 guests, including a number of current and former ambassadors. Photograph by Carol Ross Joynt.
Gabrielle Bekink imported the flowers (except for the dogwood) from Holland and the flower designer, David Kurio, from Austin, Texas. Photograph by Carol Ross Joynt.
The view along the cross hall toward the drawing room, where cocktails and canapes were served. Photograph by Carol Ross Joynt.
During the cocktail hour guests chatted, drank Champagne and wine, and listened to a pianist. Photograph by Carol Ross Joynt.
The main decor element: tulips, lots of them and in all kinds of arrangements. Photograph by Carol Ross Joynt.
The Bekinks’ cozy, flower-filled den. Photograph by Carol Ross Joynt.
Pewter mugs repurposed as vases. Photograph by Carol Ross Joynt.
What a good combination: charming dog figurines and beautiful flowers. Photograph by Carol Ross Joynt.
The Ambassador from Monaco, Gilles Noghès, makes a toast to Queen Beatrix and incoming King Willem. On the right in a blue tie is Netherlands ambassador Rudolf Bekink, to the far right, in profile, is British Ambassador Peter Westmacott. Photograph by Carol Ross Joynt.
