On a night that could only be described as royally extravagant, Toronto’s elite gathered at the Windsor Arms Hotel to celebrate the grand unveiling of Ann Kaplan Mulholland’s latest venture, “Queen of the Castle.” The evening was a spectacle of opulence, entertainment, and, of course, a touch of regal flair that left attendees buzzing long after the final toast.

Ann Kaplan, a name synonymous with glamour and business acumen, first captured our attention as the standout star of “The Real Housewives of Toronto.” Beyond the reality TV fame, Ann is a formidable entrepreneur with a doctorate in finance and a knack for turning ambitious dreams into reality. Her latest endeavour? Purchasing and meticulously restoring the 944-year-old Lympne Castle in Kent, England—a project chronicled in her new series, “Queen of the Castle.” 

The Windsor Arms Hotel, known for its timeless elegance, provided the perfect backdrop for this exclusive affair. The evening commenced with a private screening of “Queen of the Castle,” offering guests an intimate glimpse into Ann’s journey of transforming a medieval fortress into a luxurious haven. The series promises a delightful blend of renovation challenges, cultural clashes and Ann’s signature wit, making it a must-add to your streaming queue. 

But the night was far from over. As the credits rolled, the doors to a lavish ballroom swung open, revealing a scene straight out of a modern-day fairytale. Drag performers dazzled with high-energy numbers, their sequins and feathers catching the light as they sashayed through the crowd. Towering stilt walkers weaved gracefully among the guests, adding an element of whimsy and wonder to the festivities. The air was filled with laughter, music and the unmistakable clink of glasses as cocktails flowed freely from the ornately adorned bars.

Toronto acclaimed photographer, George Pimentel, was on hand to capture the magic, offering guests the opportunity to be immortalized through his lens. Attendees lined up for their close-ups, eager to strike a pose and take home a memento from the evening. In a playful nod to the evening’s theme, women were crowned with delicate tiaras, while men donned stately crowns, transforming the ballroom into a veritable court of kings and queens.

The guest list read like a who’s who of Toronto’s social scene, with influencers, celebrities, and business moguls rubbing elbows and sharing in the celebration. The atmosphere was electric, a testament to Ann’s ability to bring together a diverse and dynamic crowd united by a love of luxury and a penchant for the extraordinary.

Just when attendees thought the night couldn’t get any more memorable, a surprise event was announced: a hot dog eating competition. In a delightful juxtaposition to the evening’s highbrow ambiance, guests eagerly gathered to cheer on the brave participants who stepped up to the challenge. Laughter echoed through the hall as contestants battled it out, adding a hearty dose of humour and camaraderie to the festivities.

“Queen of the Castle” is more than just a show: it’s a captivating journey into the world of heritage restoration, seen through the eyes of a woman who refuses to be daunted by even the most formidable of projects. Ann’s charisma, coupled with the inherent challenges of reviving a centuries-old castle, makes for compelling viewing. Whether you’re a fan of home improvement, history or simply enjoy watching a powerhouse woman take charge, this series is a worthy addition to your watchlist.

In true Ann Kaplan fashion, the launch event was nothing short of spectacular—a night where fantasy and reality blurred, leaving guests enchanted and eager for more. As the evening drew to a close, attendees departed with their crowns slightly askew, hearts full and calendars marked for the next episode of what promises to be television’s crowning glory.

So, adjust your tiaras and set your reminders. “Queen of the Castle” is here, and if the launch event was any indication, we’re in for a royally entertaining ride.

Photography courtesy of George Pimentel.