Hello East Kingdom and friends! I am the Head Retainer for Their Highnesses Donovan and Megha and I am looking for your help to make their time as Royals run smoothly and comfortably. This is a simple way you can participate in the pageantry of this historic reign. If you might like to retain for them at any point, please fill out this Google form. Doing so doesn’t obligate you in any way, but it gives me your contact information to make sure you see individual event sign-ups and get any necessary updates about retaining requirements.
FAQ:
Q: What is retaining?
A: You are a Royal’s personal assistant at an event. You stay close, carry their stuff, make sure they have enough food and drink, keep them on schedule the best you can, take notes on what they are asked for and gifts they’re given, and help them with whatever they need.
Q: How much of a time commitment is it?
A: Shifts are usually 1 hour, maybe longer at Pennsic. You can sign up for as many or as few as you like.
Q: Do I need experience?
A: No! I will do my best to clearly define procedures and expectations, and pair up new retainers with experienced ones.
Q: Is there an age minimum?
A: Minors are very welcome so long as a parent or guardian is also present for the duration of the shift. Teenagers may serve unaccompanied with permission of their guardians and the Royals, and according to the rules of the event governing minors.
Q: Am I on my own?
A: Hopefully not. My intent is to schedule retainers in pairs (2 for each Royal) whenever we have sufficient volunteers. Also, the Head Retainer for the event is always available to assist when necessary.
Q: How physically demanding is the job?
A: Most of the time, retaining means being on the move, walking and carrying items of varying weight, and standing. However, there are times such as court, meetings, and sitting in state where the job is more about taking notes and monitoring schedules, which can be done seated. I’ll try to note on event signups which shifts will be more accessible. If you have physical limitations, please choose those shifts and let me know on the signup form so I can pair you with someone who can cover any fetching and carrying tasks.
Q: Is my contact info private?
A: The info you provide on the initial form will only come to me and my deputies. For each event, your SCA name and event-specific contact info you provide will be on the roster visible to other retainers and reign staff.
Q: What if I have more questions?
A: Please email me at 130385@members.eastkingdom.org
-Magistra Lilias de Cheryngton