For London’s discerning homeowners, household staff are more than employees—they’re trusted insiders. A housekeeper might overhear a business deal in Belgravia; a chauffeur might drive a VIP through Knightsbridge. With such access, vetting isn’t just a step—it’s the foundation of trust. At Marshall Harber, we’ve spent decades perfecting our vetting process to protect private households across the UK and beyond. Here’s why it matters, what it involves, and how we ensure your peace of mind.

The Stakes: Privacy and Safety First
In a high-net-worth home, the risks are high. A single lapse—a nanny sharing gossip, a butler with an unverified background—can disrupt your life. Vetting mitigates this by ensuring staff are reliable, discreet, and safe. It’s not just about skills; it’s about character. Imagine a housekeeper who, without proper checks, shares details of your home on social media. For families who value privacy above all, that’s a risk you can’t afford.

What Thorough Vetting Looks Like
A robust vetting process covers multiple layers:
• DBS Checks: A Disclosure and Barring Service check flags any criminal history, ensuring staff are safe to work in your home—especially around children or valuables.
• Reference Calls: We don’t just read references; we call past employers to verify performance, reliability, and discretion. Did they handle sensitive situations well? Were they punctual?
• Identity and Right-to-Work: We confirm legal work status and identity, crucial in a city like London with strict regulations.
• Behavioural Interviews: We ask pointed questions—“How do you handle overhearing private conversations?”—to gauge instincts on privacy and professionalism.

The Difference It Makes
Thorough vetting ensures peace of mind. Consider a chauffeur role: without proper checks, you might hire someone with a history of reckless driving, putting your family at risk. Or picture a nanny who hasn’t been vetted for discretion—she might unintentionally share details about your children’s routines. Our process catches these red flags early, ensuring every candidate we place—whether a butler, housekeeper, or estate manager—is someone you can trust implicitly. We prioritise discretion at every step, so your household’s privacy remains sacred.

Why Choose an Agency?
DIY vetting can be daunting—time-consuming and risky if you miss a step. Agencies like Marshall Harber take the burden off your shoulders. We pre-screen every candidate, from housekeepers to estate managers, ensuring they meet our exacting standards before they reach your door. Our network spans London to international estates, giving us access to the best—vetted for your trust.

The Bottom Line
Vetting isn’t a formality; it’s a safeguard. It protects your privacy, your family, and your home’s harmony. For discerning London households, that’s non-negotiable.
Ready for staff you can trust? Marshall Harber delivers London’s finest, vetted with care. Contact us today.

The modern butler is a master of quiet precision, blending tradition with today’s demands in London’s discerning households. Far from the stiff stereotypes of yesteryear, today’s butlers are versatile professionals—part manager, part confidant. At Marshall Harber, we’ve placed butlers in residences from Mayfair to Monaco, each adapting to their household’s rhythm. Step into a busy event day for one such butler in a Kensington townhouse, to see why they’re indispensable.

6:30 AM: The Day Begins
The butler rises early, slipping into a crisp uniform—white shirt, black waistcoat, polished shoes. First task: a sweep of the home. He adjusts curtains to let in soft morning light, checks the dining room for breakfast prep, and syncs with the housekeeper via a shared app to confirm the day’s cleaning schedule. A quick glance at the weather app ensures he’s ready—rain means umbrellas at the door.

8:00 AM: Breakfast and Briefings
As the family gathers, the butler oversees breakfast—porridge with honey, fresh berries, and coffee, laid out with precision. He’s briefed the chef on preferences (no dairy for the eldest child) and ensures the table is flawless. While they eat, he reviews the day’s schedule: a school run, a client lunch for the parents, and an evening cocktail event. He texts the chauffeur to confirm timings, then arranges dry cleaning pickup for a suit needed tonight.

11:00 AM: Managing the Unexpected
A last-minute request arrives—the client lunch needs a venue change. The butler calls a trusted Mayfair restaurant, securing a private room, then updates the chauffeur. Meanwhile, he oversees a florist delivery for the evening event, arranging lilies in a crystal vase himself. Discretion is key: when a courier drops off a confidential package, he ensures it’s stored securely, no questions asked.

1:00 PM: A Brief Respite
With the family out, the butler takes a well-earned break—lunch in the staff quarters, perhaps a quick cup of tea while reviewing the evening plan. He meets with a contractor fixing a leak in the guest wing, ensuring work stays on schedule, then checks the wine cellar, ordering a case of the family’s favourite Chablis to replenish stock.

6:00 PM: Evening Elegance
The cocktail event looms. The butler transforms the drawing room—candles lit, playlist queued, glasses sparkling. He briefs the temporary staff on guest names and preferences, ensuring seamless service. As the family returns, he helps the host with a tie adjustment, then greets arrivals with a warm, understated smile. During the event, he’s a shadow—refilling drinks, clearing plates, all while laughter flows uninterrupted.

9:00 PM: Winding Down
Guests gone, the butler oversees cleanup, ensuring the home is pristine by 9:30 PM. He sets out the family’s evening tea—chamomile, as requested—then prepares for tomorrow: laying out school uniforms, confirming a car service for a 7:00 AM airport run. Before retiring, he sends a quick report to the family office, noting the evening’s success. On quieter days, he’d finish earlier, but events like tonight demand extra care.

Why It Matters
This butler doesn’t just serve—he orchestrates. His blend of tradition, tech-savvy, and discretion makes the household hum. For London’s discerning families, that’s the gold standard.
Need a butler to elevate your home? Marshall Harber connects you with London’s finest, vetted for excellence. Contact us today.

In the grand homes of Victorian London, household staff were the backbone of daily life—maids scrubbing hearths, butlers guarding silver. Fast forward to 2025, and the world of private staffing has transformed, reflecting the needs of today’s discerning households. At Marshall Harber, we’ve seen this evolution firsthand, placing top-tier talent in residences from Knightsbridge to international estates. Here’s how roles like housekeepers, butlers, and chauffeurs have adapted—and why they remain vital.

The Victorian Era: A Rigid Hierarchy
In the 19th century, staffing was a status symbol. Large households employed dozens—scullery maids, footmen, governesses—each with a narrow role. Housekeepers enforced strict order, answering to the lady of the house. Butlers managed wine cellars and male staff, their authority unquestioned. Chauffeurs didn’t exist; horse-drawn carriages ruled. Every task, from polishing boots to starching linens, fell to a specialised servant. For the wealthy, a full staff signalled power, but rigid roles left little room for flexibility.

The 20th Century: Streamlining and Specialisation
By the mid-20th century, social shifts—wars, economic changes, technology—slimmed households. Maids dwindled as appliances like vacuums emerged. Butlers took on broader duties, from answering phones to greeting guests. The rise of cars birthed the chauffeur, blending driving skill with decorum. Staff became fewer but more skilled, valued for efficiency over sheer numbers. Discretion grew critical as families sought privacy in a media-hungry age.

Today: Versatility Meets Luxury
Modern household staff are chameleons, tailored to the fast-paced lives of London’s discerning homeowners. Roles have evolved dramatically:
* Housekeepers: Once focused on cleaning, they now manage smart homes, coordinate deliveries, or even oversee eco-friendly practices—like sourcing sustainable linens.
* Butlers: No longer just tray-bearers, they’re event planners, tech-savvy aides, or informal estate managers, juggling schedules with finesse.
* Chauffeurs: Beyond driving, they’re logistics experts, navigating London’s congestion or arranging private jets, always with an ear for discretion.
* Estate Managers: A new breed, they oversee entire properties—staff, budgets, security—freeing owners to focus elsewhere.
Technology has reshaped demands—staff sync with apps for grocery orders or home alarms—yet human touch remains key. A nanny’s warmth or a butler’s intuition can’t be coded.

Why It Matters Now
Today’s households prize versatility and trust. A housekeeper might double as a personal shopper; a chauffeur might know your favourite routes by heart. This evolution reflects a shift toward intimate, efficient teams that blend tradition with innovation. For discerning clients, staff aren’t just workers—they’re partners in a lifestyle.
At Marshall Harber, we understand this balance. Our candidates are vetted for modern skills and timeless discretion, whether managing a Belgravia penthouse or a rural manor. We bridge past and present, ensuring every placement fits your unique needs.
Curious about staffing your home for today’s world? Contact Marshall Harber to discover London’s finest household professionals.

We are sincerely grateful to Jo at Marshall Harber for assisting us in securing a new couple position that aligns perfectly with our skills and aspirations.

Easter in London calls for celebration—whether it’s a quiet family brunch in Mayfair or a countryside gathering beyond the M25. The right menu can turn a good holiday into a great one, and with the right staff, it’s effortless. At Marshall Harber, we place exceptional household talent in discerning London homes, ready to bring your Easter vision to life. Here are three recipes your housekeeper, butler, or chef can master, blending tradition with a touch of luxury.

1. Spring Herb-Crusted Lamb Rack
* Why It Fits: A tender, flavourful centrepiece for Easter Sunday, perfect for impressing guests.
* Ingredients: Rack of lamb (8 ribs), rosemary, thyme, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper.
* Method: Rub lamb with minced herbs, garlic, and oil. Roast at 200°C for 25-30 minutes (medium). Rest, slice, serve with mint sauce.
* Staff Tip: Your butler can time it to arrive hot as guests sit, showcasing precision.

2. Lemon & Elderflower Hot Cross Bun Pudding
* Why It Fits: A twist on the classic bun, ideal for brunch or dessert—light yet indulgent.
* Ingredients: 6 hot cross buns, 300ml cream, 2 eggs, elderflower cordial, lemon zest, sugar.
* Method: Slice buns, layer in a dish. Whisk cream, eggs, 2 tbsp cordial, zest, and 50g sugar. Pour over, bake at 180°C for 30 minutes until golden.
* Staff Tip: A housekeeper can prep this ahead, leaving you free to mingle.

3. Asparagus & Poached Egg Tartlets
* Why It Fits: A fresh, elegant starter or light bite, celebrating spring produce.
* Ingredients: Puff pastry, asparagus spears, eggs, crème fraîche, parmesan.
* Method: Cut pastry into squares, bake at 200°C for 10 minutes. Top with crème fraîche, steamed asparagus, and a poached egg. Sprinkle parmesan.
* Staff Tip: Your chef can plate these with flair, delighting guests.

Why Staff Make the Difference
These dishes shine brightest with skilled hands behind them. A vetted housekeeper from Marshall Harber can whip up the pudding while your chauffeur runs last-minute errands. A butler ensures the lamb hits the table piping hot. A chef crafts tartlets that steal the show. Easter hosting becomes a breeze when your team knows its craft—and discretion keeps the focus on the meal, not the prep.
Try these recipes this April, and see why London’s finest homes trust us. Need staff to bring your Easter to life? Contact Marshall Harber for tailored talent.

I have worked with Joe Harber for over 20 years now and she’s helped me STAFF multiple residences for the same client and I am extremely happy with all of their services. She doesn’t oversell. She selects very carefully as she knows the requirements of the principles and is also very easy to work with. I have really enjoyed working with her. She’s my go to person for staffing for private households.

With Easter approaching, London’s discerning homeowners are gearing up for a season of gatherings—brunches in Chelsea, family retreats to the Cotswolds, or intimate dinners in Notting Hill. A flawless celebration hinges on one thing: exceptional household staff. At Marshall Harber, we’ve equipped countless private residences with the talent to make every occasion seamless. Here’s how to staff your home for Easter success, ensuring your holiday shines without a hitch.

Plan Your Staffing Needs Early
Easter often means extra guests, whether it’s relatives staying over or friends dropping by. Start now to assess your needs:
* Housekeepers: Extra hands keep guest rooms pristine, linens fresh, and spills managed during egg hunts or afternoon teas.
* Chauffeurs: With London traffic or rural road trips, a skilled driver ensures timely arrivals—be it to church or a countryside estate.
* Butlers or Assistants: For larger events, a butler can oversee service, from pouring Champagne to coordinating caterers.
Booking early avoids the last-minute rush. Demand spikes in spring, so secure your team by mid-April.

Match Staff to Your Easter Style
Every household celebrates differently. Tailor your staff to your plans:
* Casual Brunch: A proactive housekeeper can set up, tidy up, and keep the kitchen humming while you enjoy hot cross buns with guests.
* Formal Dinner: A butler brings polish—serving roast lamb with precision and managing the flow of a multi-course meal.
* Weekend Getaway: A chauffeur with local knowledge doubles as a discreet guide, navigating from Kensington to Kent without fuss.
Discuss your vision with your agency to ensure the right fit. At Marshall Harber, we match staff to your exact needs, down to the smallest detail.

Lean on Vetted Professionals
Easter is no time for guesswork. Discretion and skill are non-negotiable when guests fill your home:
* Vetting: Insist on DBS-checked staff with glowing references. Our candidates come pre-screened, trusted by London’s finest homes.
* Experience: Look for staff seasoned in high-pressure settings—think busy households or luxury events. They’ll handle chaos calmly.
* Trial Option: For new hires, a pre-Easter trial (say, a day this week) confirms they mesh with your rhythm.
A vetted team lets you focus on hosting, not micromanaging.

Why It Pays Off
A well-staffed Easter means no stress—just enjoyment. Your housekeeper clears the table while you chat with guests. Your chauffeur whisks family to the station while you sip tea. It’s the quiet luxury discerning Londoners expect. And with spring ushering in more events, a reliable team now sets the tone for the season.
Ready to make Easter effortless? Marshall Harber connects you with London’s top household staff, tailored for your holiday and beyond. Contact us today.

In London’s grandest homes—from Belgravia townhouses to Hampstead estates—household staff are more than skilled workers; they’re guardians of privacy. For distinguished households, discretion isn’t just a preference—it’s the cornerstone of trust. At Marshall Harber, we’ve spent decades placing exceptional staff with private households across the UK and abroad. What sets the best apart? It’s the art of discretion. Here’s why it matters, how it shines, and how we ensure it in every candidate.

Why Discretion Defines Excellence
Wealthy households thrive on seamless routines and unspoken boundaries. A housekeeper overhearing a business call, a chauffeur driving a high-profile guest, or a nanny managing a child’s tantrum—all demand discretion beyond the job description. Discretion means knowing what not to say, share, or even notice. It’s the difference between a good employee and one who becomes indispensable. For clients, it’s peace of mind that their private world stays private, whether they’re hosting a gala or unwinding after a long day.

Discretion in Action
Every role showcases this skill uniquely:
* Housekeepers: They glide through rooms, polishing silver or folding linens, without a whisper about who visited or what was left behind. A discreet housekeeper doesn’t just clean—they protect your space.
* Chauffeurs: Behind the wheel, they tune out backseat conversations—be it a deal being struck or a family spat—focusing only on the road and your comfort.
* Butlers: Managing staff or serving guests, they anticipate needs without prying, ensuring the household hums without a trace of intrusion.
* Nannies: Caring for children, they shield sensitive moments—like a parent’s absence or a child’s struggles—from the outside world.
The finest staff don’t need to be instructed on discretion; it’s instinct, honed by experience and character.

How We Spot—and Secure—Discretion
At Marshall Harber, discretion isn’t an afterthought—it’s a filter. Our process ensures it:
* Interviews: We ask, “How do you handle overhearing private matters?” Top candidates emphasise confidentiality naturally, often citing past examples (anonymised, of course).
* Vetting: Beyond DBS checks and references, we dig into reputation. Have they worked in elite homes before? Did employers trust them implicitly? We verify wherever possible with direct calls.
* Training Insight: Many of our candidates come with years in luxury settings—hotels, yachts, or estates—where discretion is non-negotiable. We prioritise this pedigree.
We previously placed a butler with a Kensington family who praised his “invisible presence”—he managed their home flawlessly, never hinting at the VIPs who passed through. That’s the standard we chase.

Why It’s Non-Negotiable
In a connected age, one slip—a tweeted anecdote, a casual remark—can unravel trust. London’s distinguished households can’t afford that risk. Discreet staff aren’t just employees; they’re partners in preserving a lifestyle. They enable hosts to entertain, families to relax, and business to proceed without a second thought.
Looking for staff who master the art of discretion? Marshall Harber connects you with London’s most trusted professionals, vetted for skill and silence alike. Contact us to find your perfect match.

Employing household staff can be an incredibly rewarding experience for both the employer and employee. Not only does it provide much-needed support to busy households, but it also allows employers to build relationships with people who have diverse backgrounds and experiences. That said, there are many things that employers should consider before they bring new staff into their homes. Let’s take a look at five of them.

1. Understand Your Legal Requirements
It is important to understand the legal requirements that come with employing household staff, such as tax payments, minimum wage requirements, and other applicable labor laws. This will ensure that you are compliant with all regulations and avoid any potential legal issues in the future. It is important to remember that each country or state has different laws regarding employment—so be sure to research the specific regulations in your area before hiring anyone.
2. Develop Clear Job Descriptions
Having a clear job description for each role you need filled is essential for ensuring your expectations are properly communicated from the start. This will help ensure that your employees understand what is expected of them from day one and provide clarity when managing their performance throughout their employment.
3. Provide Adequate Training
Providing adequate training for your employees is critical for ensuring they know how to perform their job duties safely and efficiently—especially if they are working in a potentially hazardous environment like a kitchen or around any type of machinery or tools. Depending on the specific role, you may need to get additional certifications or licenses in order for your employee to legally work in certain roles like childcare or medical caretaking positions.
4. Establish Boundaries
Establishing boundaries between yourself and your employees will help maintain professional relationships while still allowing everyone involved to have a comfortable working environment. It’s important to make sure that everyone understands what is acceptable behaviour while they are on the job so that there are no misunderstandings down the line about what is expected from both sides of the relationship.
5 . Review Their Performance Regularly
Regularly reviewing an employee’s performance can help keep them motivated and open up opportunities for improvement when needed—plus it gives employers an opportunity to recognise good work! Performance reviews also give employers insight into how their staff feels about certain aspects of their job so they can better address any issues that may arise over time.

Taking on household staff can be incredibly rewarding when done responsibly. By understanding your legal requirements, developing clear job descriptions, providing adequate training, establishing boundaries, and reviewing performance regularly, employers can ensure that both themselves and their employees have an enjoyable experience all around! Doing this will ultimately create positive relationships between employers and employees while helping both sides reach success in their respective fields!

For high net worth families, having an experienced and reliable personal assistant can be invaluable. From managing their daily activities to providing support for family members, personal assistants play an important role in helping their employers live a comfortable lifestyle. Here’s a look at the responsibilities of private family personal assistants.

Organizational Responsibilities
One of the primary duties of a private family personal assistant is to organize their employer’s day-to-day life. This includes managing calendars, scheduling appointments, making travel arrangements, and coordinating with other staff members. Assistants may also be responsible for filing paperwork, taking notes during meetings, and performing administrative tasks like data entry or document preparation. Any tasks that need to be completed on a regular basis should fall under the scope of this position.

Family Support
In addition to administrative duties, private family personal assistants are often tasked with providing support directly to family members. They may help monitor children’s educational progress or coordinate extracurricular activities for them. They may also run errands or take care of any other needs that arise within the household. It is important for these assistants to have excellent organizational skills as well as strong interpersonal communication abilities in order to effectively handle these kinds of tasks.

Other Duties
The exact duties of a private family’s personal assistant will vary depending on the specific needs of their employer’s household. In some cases they may be asked to manage household finances or oversee repairs and maintenance jobs around the home. They may also be responsible for handling vendors or contractors who work with the family on special projects or repairs as needed. In short, no two days are ever quite the same when it comes to being a personal assistant in a high net worth household!

A private family's personal assistant plays an important role in helping their employers maintain an orderly lifestyle while providing direct support to each member of the family when necessary. Responsibilities range from organizing daily activities and making travel arrangements to monitoring children's educational progress and handling vendors and contractors for home repairs or special projects. No matter what type of task is required, it is essential for private family personal assistants to have excellent organizational skills as well as strong interpersonal communication abilities in order to successfully carry out their duties on behalf of their employer's household.