Prince Harry and Meghan Markle tied the knot on May 19, 2018, during a spectacular ceremony at St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle, an event watched by an astounding 1.9 billion viewers worldwide. While the grandeur of the occasion was notable, many of the intimate and personal moments that characterised the day may have gone unnoticed by the global audience.
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In an audio clip featured in the exhibition “A Royal Wedding: The Duke and Duchess of Sussex,” Meghan reflected on the meticulous planning that went into their wedding. She emphasised the intent behind their choices, stating, “We knew how large the scale of the event would be, so in making choices that were really personal and meaningful, it could make the whole experience feel intimate.”
Photographs from the day encapsulate the heartfelt elements of their ceremony. For instance, Meghan’s veil was adorned with painstakingly embroidered flowers, representing the 53 countries of the Commonwealth. Furthermore, hidden embellishments were included in the design of their getaway car, demonstrating the couple’s commitment to personalising their wedding experience.
Meghan made a striking entrance to the chapel, arriving in a car alongside her page boys, Brian and John Mulroney, the twin sons of her friends Jessica and Ben Mulroney. The excitement on the page boys’ faces was evident as they shared this special moment with the bride.
Accompanied by her mother, Doria Ragland, Meghan arrived wearing the stunning Queen Mary Diamond Bandeau tiara, a beloved piece from Queen Elizabeth II’s collection. The scene on the grounds of Windsor Castle was a picturesque one, bustling with well-wishers ready to celebrate the union.
Inside the chapel, the atmosphere was equally electric. Two page boys played a crucial role, assisting Meghan by carrying her exquisite veil, crafted by designer Clare Waight Keller. The veil itself was a masterpiece that not only displayed artistic flair but also held a deeper significance with its connections to the Commonwealth.
A light-hearted exchange between Prince Harry and his brother, Prince William, was photographed moments before the ceremony—a testament to the joy and familial support present that day. As Meghan made her way down the aisle on her own, she delivered a powerful and memorable statement, setting a tone of independence as she approached the altar.
At a pivotal moment, then-Prince Charles escorted Meghan down the aisle, pausing halfway to have a touching exchange. This heartfelt moment was considered so significant that Charles and Camilla later chose to display a black-and-white portrait of it in their residence at Clarence House.
As the couple exchanged vows, their connection was undeniable. Moments later, as newlyweds, they emerged from the chapel beaming with joy. Unlike the traditional balcony appearance often seen at royal weddings, Harry and Meghan shared their first kiss on the steps of St George’s Chapel, a cherished moment captured by photographers.
The celebrations continued as they embarked on a horse-drawn Ascot Landau carriage, gliding through the streets of Windsor while waving to an impressive crowd of approximately 100,000 admirers. The joy displayed by the couple and their onlookers solidified the day as a memorable event in British royal history.
Their wedding cake, lavishly crafted by Claire Ptak of Violet Cakes in London, was as unique as the couple themselves. A lemon sponge cake drizzled with elderflower syrup, the confection featured over 500 organic eggs, 200 lemons, and 150 fresh flowers, making it a regal delight worthy of the occasion.
Later in the evening, the couple changed into a silk halter gown designed by Stella McCartney for the private reception held at Frogmore House. As the night unfolded, it transformed into what was described as “a huge dance party,” allowing guests and the couple alike to unwind and celebrate their love.
In a nod to their adventurous spirits, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle made their getaway in a stylish 1968 Jaguar E-Type Zero which bore a special license plate marking their wedding date. This thoughtful touch served to convey their commitment not only to each other but also to their journey as a couple, setting a tone for their future together.
As they commemorate their wedding anniversary, there is speculation that the couple may consider renewing their vows at some point. Until then, the photographs and memories from that splendid day will remain a source of joy and reflection for both the couple and their admirers around the world.