On May 19, 2018, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle celebrated their much-anticipated royal wedding at the magnificent St. George’s Chapel within Windsor Castle. The occasion captivated the attention of approximately 1.9 billion viewers worldwide, marking the couple’s nuptials as one of the most-watched televised events in history.
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The couple carefully curated their wedding day, ensuring it held personal significance amid the grandeur often associated with royal events. “A great level of detail went into the planning of our wedding day,” Meghan admitted in an audio clip from the exhibition “A Royal Wedding: The Duke and Duchess of Sussex” in Windsor. The couple notably shared that they had secretly exchanged vows in their backyard three days prior to the official ceremony during a conversation with Oprah Winfrey in 2021.
Harry and Meghan’s wedding ceremony featured not only a grand procession but also intimate and jovial moments. The Duchess described her state of mind on the wedding day as remarkably calm, attributing part of her tranquillity to a desire for a simple breakfast of croissants and a mimosa, alongside a playful wish to hear the song “Going to the Chapel.”
Invitations to the royal wedding adhered to tradition, fashioned by Barnard Westwood, featuring the gold-inked three-feathered badge of Charles. The venue itself, St. George’s Chapel, holds significant royal history and has been a site for multiple royal weddings, adding layers of richness to the occasion.
The guest list included a blend of dignitaries and A-list celebrities, with the likes of George and Amal Clooney, Serena Williams, and the Duchess’s former colleagues from the television series “Suits” in attendance. Interestingly, an empty seat was placed near Prince William, not in honour of the late Princess Diana, but to ensure the Queen had a clear view of the ceremony.
The ceremony saw ten children take part, each bringing a touch of youthful exuberance alongside the couple. The bridesmaids donned stunning pastel gowns created by Givenchy, matching Meghan’s floral bouquet. Maintaining the tradition, Meghan’s dress was designed by Clare Waight Keller and featured a flowing train, echoing elegance and simplicity.
Meghan’s choice of a veil bore a subtle “something blue,” a piece of fabric from her first date with Harry. The Queen Mary Diamond Bandeau tiara adorned her head, serving as both “something old” and “something borrowed.” Harry, dressed in a Blues and Royals frock coat uniform, underlined his connection to his family heritage while also embracing modernity.
In a rather unique choice for a royal wedding, the couple enlisted American Bishop Michael Curry, known for his impassioned sermons, to deliver a heartfelt address. Bishop Curry quoted Martin Luther King Jr., emphasizing love’s redemptive power, leaving a lasting impact on those present.
Following the ceremony, a splendid luncheon hosted by the Queen welcomed around 600 guests, featuring delectable canapés and an impromptu speech by Harry praised for its authenticity. The celebration was further enlivened by performances from Elton John, who sang various classics, including a dedication to Meghan.
Later, the couple hosted a more intimate evening reception at Frogmore House for around 200 close friends and family. They celebrated in style, with Harry donning a classic tuxedo and Meghan transitioning into a bespoke halter gown designed by Stella McCartney. Among the evening’s highlights was a unique lemon sponge wedding cake crafted by Violet Cakes, which deviated from traditional royal fruitcake.
As the festivities continued, actor Idris Elba took on the role of DJ, orchestrating a lively dance floor. Guests were entertained by George Clooney as he mixed drinks, and Serena Williams brought an element of fun with classic games.
The overall atmosphere of the day captured not just royal elegance but also a modern spirit of love and celebration. Harry and Meghan concluded their wedding with touching speeches, where Meghan expressed her heartfelt gratitude in her father’s absence, showcasing the couple’s deep connection.
In summary, the royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle was a blend of tradition and modernity, deeply personal and yet widely celebrated. The day remains etched in the memories of millions around the world, encapsulating the essence of a fairytale romance.