Q. What is the etiquette regarding bowing or curtseying to Prince and Princess Michael of Kent? Last week I attended the memorial for Isabella Blow in the Guards Chapel. It was a magnificent occasion, but emotionally
draining, and I was just collecting myself when suddenly the royal couple passed by, leading the mourners out of the chapel. Had I known they were present at the service, I would have been prepared to follow the lead of others and do the correct thing, but I was in the very back row and looking in the wrong direction so it was too late to do
anything at all. I would not wish to have given offence. Had I been prepared, what should I have done? I am a 31-year-old male.
K.J., London W12
A. It would have been courteous for you to have performed the Coburg bow — that is just bowing discreetly from the neck — but it would not have been expected.
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