Latest news with #Garrard
Global News
11-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Global News
‘Long walks around the farm': Ontario miniature donkey's dating profile goes viral
Love is apparently in the air for Hank, a miniature donkey from Erin, Ont., whose dating profile has gained considerable traction online. The seven-year-old jack resides at Erin Hill Acres, a family-owned and operated tourism farm located an hour west of Toronto. Per his profile, Hank is looking for a soulmate to live out his days on the 90-acre farm and join him on his routine dilly-dallying in the flower fields. Farm manager Tyler Garrard says the hope is to find a female donkey, also known as a jenny, to breed with Hank and welcome more donkeys into the family. He says Hank joined the farm about two months ago after his former owner, who was having health difficulties, posted on a Facebook buy and sell group. Get breaking National news For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen. Sign up for breaking National newsletter Sign Up By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy Garrard says Hank has become a farm favourite because of his sweet and social personality, as well as his love for kids. Story continues below advertisement 'We love Hank so much that we want to find him a partner,' he said in a recent interview. In a post on Instagram, the farm said Hank enjoys 'long walks around the farm, a fat juicy carrot, gentle pets and loving,' adding that he has 'a great head of hair, a lovely personality and a massive heart.' 'Send us a DM if you know a lucky lady that is looking for a new loving home, complete with live in boyfriend,' the farm added. In a satirical video that has garnered thousands of views, the farm compiled snippets of some of Hank's best friends sharing the positive memories they have with him. 'Just wanted to do a shout out to Hank. Last time Rudolph got sick, Hank filled in for him and took the sleigh all around the world,' said a man dressed as Santa Claus. Another person joked that Hank introduced her to her husband. 'He was the best man at our wedding and the godfather to our children. Without Hank, I wouldn't have him,' she said. Eligible jennies are welcome to submit their profiles via social media or email. Garrard said they are ideally looking for a donkey of the same size range and between the ages of four and nine years old. Story continues below advertisement 'We are getting messages from people all across Canada,' he said, in what has been an overwhelmingly wholesome response. If there is a match, the farm might consider hosting a donkey wedding, Garrard said. Visitors are invited to come greet Hank at the farm, which goats, chickens, sheep and highland cows also call home.
Winnipeg Free Press
11-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Winnipeg Free Press
‘Long walks around the farm': Ontario miniature donkey's dating profile goes viral
Love is apparently in the air for Hank, a miniature donkey from Erin, Ont., whose dating profile has gained considerable traction online. The seven-year-old jack resides at Erin Hill Acres, a family-owned and operated tourism farm located an hour west of Toronto. Per his profile, Hank is looking for a soulmate to live out his days on the 90-acre farm and join him on his routine dilly-dallying in the flower fields. Farm manager Tyler Garrard says the hope is to find a female donkey, also known as a jenny, to breed with Hank and welcome more donkeys into the family. He says Hank joined the farm about two months ago after his former owner, who was having health difficulties, posted on a Facebook buy and sell group. Garrard says Hank has become a farm favourite because of his sweet and social personality, as well as his love for kids. 'We love Hank so much that we want to find him a partner,' he said in a recent interview. In a post on Instagram, the farm said Hank enjoys 'long walks around the farm, a fat juicy carrot, gentle pets and loving,' adding that he has 'a great head of hair, a lovely personality and a massive heart.' 'Send us a DM if you know a lucky lady that is looking for a new loving home, complete with live in boyfriend,' the farm added. In a satirical video that has garnered thousands of views, the farm compiled snippets of some of Hank's best friends sharing the positive memories they have with him. 'Just wanted to do a shout out to Hank. Last time Rudolph got sick, Hank filled in for him and took the sleigh all around the world,' said a man dressed as Santa Claus. Another person joked that Hank introduced her to her husband. 'He was the best man at our wedding and the godfather to our children. Without Hank, I wouldn't have him,' she said. Weekly A weekly look at what's happening in Winnipeg's arts and entertainment scene. Eligible jennies are welcome to submit their profiles via social media or email. Garrard said they are ideally looking for a donkey of the same size range and between the ages of four and nine years old. 'We are getting messages from people all across Canada,' he said, in what has been an overwhelmingly wholesome response. If there is a match, the farm might consider hosting a donkey wedding, Garrard said. Visitors are invited to come greet Hank at the farm, which goats, chickens, sheep and highland cows also call home. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 11, 2025.
CTV News
08-08-2025
- Entertainment
- CTV News
Miniature donkey searches for soulmate in Erin, Ont.
Hank the donkey was photographed at Erin Hills Acres in Erin, Ont. on Aug. 8, 2025. (Alexandra Holyk/CTV News) Finding love on the farm isn't always easy, especially if you're a miniature donkey. Hank is a seven-year-old jack and lives at Erin Hill Acres, a family-owned and operated tourism farm in Erin, Ont. 'Hank likes long walks around the farm through the lavender fields,' said Tyler Garrard, the farm manager who also acts as Hank's handler and self-proclaimed 'best buddy.' 'He's just looking for a companion to live out his days with here at Erin Hill Acres,' he said. Hank joined the farm back in June. Owned by Glenn and Jacquelyn Garrard, Erin Hill Acres initially operated as a tree farm before the family turned it into a tourism destination complete with animals, tractor rides, a gift shop, kitchen and sunflower and lavender fields. Hank the donkey, Erin Hill Acres, Erin, Ont. Hank the donkey and his 'best buddy' Tyler Garrard were photographed at Erin Hills Acres in Erin, Ont. on Aug. 8, 2025. (Alexandra Holyk/CTV News) 'There are seven grandchildren, my brother and sister and I, our spouses and my parents, and we all participate in the farm in some capacity or another,' said Chelsea Blanchard, the farm's chef. It was Tyler's idea to bring Hank on board. 'Hank has been a vision of mine for some time,' he said. 'We got our [Highland] cows first, and I feel like we've always needed a donkey.' Hank quickly made himself at home, but now, the eligible bachelor is on the market. 'We're hoping that Hank can find a miniature jenny, similar to him in size,' said Tyler. Hank is looking for a jenny, a female donkey, that is between four and nine-years-old and would be willing to join him on the farm. To help in Hank's search, Erin Hill Acres staff began sharing his journey to find love on social media. 'We thought that we were just putting together a funny little video to reach out to our followers and try to find Hank a wife and a love interest,' said Blanchard. 'Now, it's like a really big thing,' she continued. 'People are coming to our farm to see Hank and to follow his story.' According to the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada, donkeys can form a deep bond with one another, however, they can also be a little stubborn. 'A new animal stepping into their territory, sometimes they're a little apprehensive about it,' said sanctuary host farm manager Grace Sant. 'Starting to share resources together, that's a sign of being comfortable and accepting of them.' The farm is accepting applications for Hank's perfect match through Instagram, Facebook or email. 'In the caption or the subject line say, 'Attention: Hank's wife,'' said Tyler. The farm said it hopes Hank will find his love match soon. 'Hopefully we'll have a couple of mini Hanks maybe, or some jennies,' Blanchard said.
Forbes
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Joanne Milner Of Garrard On The Ascot Gold Cup, Craftsmanship And Royal Heritage
Royal Ascot Gold Cup Regarded as the oldest jewelry house in the world, Garrard was established in 1735 and with that, comes a rich and storied past. Having been appointed the first official Crown Jeweler in 1843 by Queen Victoria, the house has had strong links with the British royal family ever since. As for exceptional headwear, cue the infamous Imperial State Crown and an array of tiaras that have been worn by Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Anne, and Princess Beatrice on their wedding days, there's also the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross, which dates back to 1661 and modified over the years, including the addition of the largest clear-cut diamond in the world in 1910, to more recently, Princes Diana's 12-carat Ceylon sapphire and diamond engagement ring which has been passed onto Catherine, Princess of Wales. Queen Elizabeth II with crown, orb and sceptre, 2 June 1953, (1962). Coronation portrait: the Queen wears the Imperial State Crown, made in 1937 for the coronation of her father George VI, and holds the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross, and the Sovereign's Orb, both dating from 1661. The crown, orb and sceptre are part of the Royal Collection at the Tower of London. From "The Crown Jewels in the Tower of London", by Martin Holmes, F.S.A.. [Her Majesty's Stationery, London, 1962]. Creator: Unknown. (Photo by The Print Collector/Heritage Images via Getty Images) As well as fine jewels, the house also has ties with Royal Ascot, particularly through crafting its trophies, and the infamous Ascot Gold Cup. This year is a particularly special year, as it sees the combination of two major milestones that form part of The Gold Cup's story, 290 years of Garrard and 200 years of the beloved Royal Procession at Ascot. 'The Royal Ascot trophies are a true expression of Garrard's craftsmanship, combining traditional silversmithing techniques with modern innovation to create something both meaningful and lasting,' says Claire Scott, Design and Development Director at Garrard. ASCOT, ENGLAND - JUNE 20: Queen Elizabeth II holds the Gold Cup and Prince Andrew, Duke of York after Ryan Moore riding Estimate won The Gold Cup during Ladies' Day on day three of Royal Ascot at Ascot Racecourse on June 20, 2013 in Ascot, England. (Photo byfor Ascot Racecourse) On this year's iteration, she says, "it's not only a symbol of sporting excellence, but a celebration of shared history, created to be treasured long after the moment of victory.' Respecting its heritage, while looking to the future, Claire shares, 'At Garrard, we do not replicate the past. We evolve it, using our heritage as a foundation to create designs that are relevant today and respectful of where we have come from.' King Charles III and the Gold Cup during day three of Royal Ascot at Ascot Racecourse, Berkshire. Picture date: Thursday June 22, 2023. (Photo by David Davies/PA Images via Getty Images) Royal Ascot is in full swing, and today, on Ladies' Day, the Gold Cup will be awarded. To mark the occasion, Joanne Milner, Garrard's CEO discusses the heritage of this storied jewelry house, craftsmanship, and the future of legacy luxury. Joanne Milner: Garrard is the ultimate example that you can invest in luxury and that it will last forever. As one of the few independent jewellers in the world, and the oldest amongst them, Garrard has the best of both worlds; being one of the most historic luxury brands in the world, while still keeping true to the values of a 'family jeweller'. As such, every Garrard piece is iconic and is built to last forever. It's inspiring to think that in another 290 years people will be walking through our doors, enquiring about a piece of Garrard that we made today. Perhaps they will have just inherited it, and are keen to know its story. And there will be a story for them to discover. That is Garrard's true USP, and it's where I see it shaping our future as a legacy luxury brand. Every piece of Garrard has a genuine and meaningful story that can be brought to life, and can endure – no matter what. LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - MAY 27: Queen Elizabeth II (wearing 'The Diamond Diadem' made for King George IV by Rundell, Bridge and Rundell in 1820, 'The Coronation Earrings' and 'The Coronation Necklace' made by Garrard for Queen Victoria in 1858) travels down The Mall (Photo by Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images) JM: Garrard's legacy of storytelling is vital to our clients. It is not just the beauty of each of our pieces, it is the meaning behind it. As the oldest jewellery house in the world and the ultimate legacy jeweller, our heritage organically attracts a new generation looking to make their own mark. This combined with the iconic Garrard designs which have consistently proven to stand the test of time, reborn and refashioned for the muses of today, maintains our cultural relevance and enduring appeal. We've observed how the world is returning to heritage luxuries. As lives become increasingly fast-paced and transactional, the authenticity and grounding of heritage brands such as Garrard take centre stage. Our everlasting craftsmanship is what enables pieces to be tailored and redesigned, meaning each piece can act as a living legacy constantly being shaped by the hands it is passed onto. As we look to the future of jewellery and our house, Garrard's heritage and 290 years of refining our craft are our greatest strengths. We are a living, breathing, house – not a museum – whose clients' real-life stories of love, family, beauty, and strength continue to be written. It is a responsibility we take seriously. LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - JUNE 03: Diana, Princess Of Wales As Patron Of The English National Ballet, Attends 'Swan Lake' At London's Royal Albert Hall Wearing A Necklace By Garrard. (Photo by Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty Images) JM: It is a huge privilege to be custodian of the oldest jewellery house in the world. Even now, 10 years since I joined Garrard, I continue to discover new stories from our past. It is my responsibility to make sure Garrard is here in another 290 years from now. Not perhaps my biggest learning, but something I'm constantly working and striving towards, is how to balance Garrard the historic brand with Garrard the business of today and the future. It's a powerful symbiotic relationship. Neither one can grow or survive without the other. My most vital task as CEO is constantly ensuring we're meeting the needs of both. While of course the ideal linear trajectory is rarely achieved, as long as both are moving in the right direction, I am happy! Craftsmanship at Garrard JM: My vision is to set the standard for what a modern heritage brand can be. I really want to focus on our story, and the storytelling inherent in luxury jewellery, which is our greatest asset. In a world of so many trends that come and go, Garrard truly is an iconic constant. A storied world of luxury, our archival vault is home to some of the greatest stories ever told. Founded on the principles of heritage and luxury, our commitment to craftsmanship and design will shape our future. Top of my mind is sustainability, a journey to ensure that every part of our brand and business caters to the next generation of jewellery owners; from altering the exquisite ancestral pieces passed onto them, to creating versatile yet everlasting new icons that can be taken apart and built back up again. It is the principles of longevity and endurance that the great historical luxury houses excel at. There couldn't be a better time than now to call on them. Craftsmanship at Garrard JM: It is both. While the legacy pieces are part of what puts us into a league of our own today, to continue to keep Garrard in this singular position we must continue to be relevant by creating new 'moments' and 'pieces' that will write the next chapter of the legacy. Heritage is at the heart of who we are, but it is the way we reinterpret and evolve that legacy through bold design and modern innovation that truly sets us apart. His Majesty the King's Coronation was a moment that perfectly captured this balance. It is one of my proudest moments since joining Garrard. It beautifully showcased the power and longevity of our brand. Pieces we designed and crafted hundreds of years ago were worn alongside pieces from our current collections. It showed that a Garrard piece of jewellery is as desirable today as it always has been. Our jewellery is for now, as well as forever. LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - MAY 06: King Charles III and Queen Camilla wave from the balcony of Buckingham Palace following their coronation at Westminster Abbey on May 6, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images) JM: Iconic in every sense, one of my favourite pieces has to be Princess Diana's sapphire and diamond cluster engagement ring. What I love most about this ring is that she chose it herself. There is a personal connection, an emotion, and a self-determined spirit to be admired. ARGENTINA - NOVEMBER 24: A Portrait Of Princess Diana Looking Pensive Whilst Visiting The British American Benevolent Society During Her Official Tour Of Argentina. (Photo by Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty Images) My other favourite piece is deeply personal. It is my own Garrard piece, a different type of gemstone cluster ring. It features my favourite stone. A sapphire. But not the deep blue most people are familiar with. Mine is a Padparadscha sapphire, a rare variety with an incredible mix of fiery orange and pink hues. It epitomises Garrard's expertise in sourcing the finest and rarest coloured gemstones. And for me, it captures the unique and colourful spirit that we are known for. It is this spirit that will continue to define Garrard for generations. Royal Ascot 2025 runs until Saturday the 21st of June, with the Royal Ascot Gold Cup being awarded today. Royal Ascot Gold Cup
Daily Mail
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE Kate Middleton's £10,000 keepsake honouring her love story with Prince William
Though the Princess of Wales owns one of the most famous engagement rings in history, she has recently been seen without it at several public appearances. Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton in 2011 with a dazzling heirloom: a 12-carat oval blue Ceylon sapphire encircled by 14 solitaire diamonds, designed by the esteemed London jeweller Garrard. The ring, originally purchased by Prince Charles for Princess Diana in 1981 for £28,000, is now valued at over £300,000. Given its significant value and delicate design, it's understandable that Kate occasionally opts not to wear it - especially during informal outings or active engagements, such as her recent appearance in a Scouts promotional video. Comfort and practicality are likely considerations as well. Kate has been known to remove her engagement ring during hospital visits, presumably due to health and safety protocols. In its place, Kate has adopted a more understated but equally meaningful look - a stack of eternity rings that express her personal style and love for her family. Jewellery experts at Steven Stone estimate her stack to be worth close to £10,000. Maxwell Stone told MailOnline: 'Kate's choice of rings suggests that she values subtlety and meaning over grandeur, while still maintaining an air of elegance and sophistication. 'Though her engagement ring has been seen less frequently, her continued display of commitment to Prince William through her eternity rings speaks to her desire for personal and understated expressions of love.' Mr Stone added that the rings reflect her preference for sentimental jewellery: 'The rings showcase her affinity for classic, timeless pieces that reflect her role as both a mother and wife - they've been carefully chosen to be meaningful rather than overtly luxurious, which aligns with her image of grace, modesty and a strong connection to family.' Traditionally, royal jewellery is passed down through generations, with engagement and wedding rings serving as treasured heirlooms. Kate's sapphire engagement ring and Welsh gold wedding band follow this custom. However, her eternity rings mark a quiet evolution in royal jewellery - favouring modern, personal symbolism over formality. Here's a breakdown of the rings that now make up Princess Kate's signature stack. Sapphire and diamond band - estimated value: £4,700 Kate's Cartier 'Étincelle' band features 19 brilliant-cut diamonds, totalling 0.24 carats, alongside 19 matching sapphires, totalling 0.34 carats. First seen in 2024, it's believed to be a thirteenth wedding anniversary gift from William. The more subtle alternative to her engagement ring, it reflects Kate's enduring love for sapphire jewellery. Slim diamond band - estimated value: £1,000 While its origin remains a mystery, this white diamond band brings understated elegance to Kate's ring stack, capturing the attention of fans and jewellery enthusiasts alike. Mr Stone notes that the delicate design is 'a thoughtfully chosen piece, complementing her other rings while maintaining a refined simplicity.' Diamond eternity ring - estimated value: £1,500 Gifted by William following the birth of Prince George, this pave-set ring from Annoushka's Eclipse collection is crafted from 18-carat white gold and hand-set with 0.23 carats of diamonds. Kate has worn the piece both with and without her sapphire engagement ring and Welsh gold wedding band. Sentimental value plays a major role in Kate's jewellery choices, making this a fitting favourite in her collection. Wedding band - estimated value: £2,300 Crafted from Welsh yellow gold, Kate's wedding ring is part of a royal tradition, shared by the Queen Mother and Queen Elizabeth II. While its gold content may not hold high retail value, Mr Stone explains, 'considering the nugget of gold it was made from, and the legacy of the lady who wears it, it is likely to be worth a lot more in the coming years.'
