So when is the wedding again?
It’s Saturday the 19th of May, the clock is about to strike 12, and you’re sitting on your couch in front of your TV–or on your bed with your laptop, for us millennials–while the Royal Wedding approaches. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. As you wait with anticipation, here is everything you need to know about the upcoming high-profile nuptials, all the details you’ve been waiting for.
Not one reception, but two
The first of two receptions will be the more formal afternoon one, hosted by the queen. According to CNN, “the traditional ceremony will be conducted by the Dean of Windsor, The Rt Revd David Conner, while the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, will officiate as the couple make their marriage vows.”
The second evening reception, hosted by the Prince of Wales, will be much more intimate.
The venues
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will wed at St. George’s Chapel on the grounds of Windsor Castle, approximately 32 kilometres west of central London. Royal officials say that the castle is a “special place” for the couple. Starting from 7 pm, the after party will be at Frogmore House, Windsor, which stands half a mile away from Windsor Castle and is hidden from the public eye.
The guest list
Details about the attendees are still very sparse; in fact, we know more about the faces we won’t be seeing. While the capacity of 180-ft long St. George’s Hall can reach up to 800 occupants, the couple has invited around 600 lucky guests. Interestingly enough, none of these select few are political members, and this follows the announcement made by Kensington Palace that the wedding will be politics-free. That includes current American President Donald Trump, and even British leaders, like Prime Minister Theresa May.
With the afternoon reception already being quite selective, the evening reception will be even more private. These golden tickets have been reserved for close friends and family. For those of us not lucky enough to be among those invited to either, the next best option is to watch it live and in comfort from home.
The best man and bridesmaids
As expected, The Duke of Cambridge a.k.a. Prince William, will play the part of Prince Harry’s best man. On the other hand, Meghan Markle will have no bridesmaids because, according to The Daily Telegraph, ‘she’s unable to choose between her friends.’
Prince George and Princess Charlotte have been confirmed as pageboy and bridesmaid. The adorable pair stole the show at Pippa Middleton’s nuptials, so they already know the drill.
The dream dress
Meghan Markle is known for being fashionable, and her royal wedding gown will be as much an expression of her personality as her style. Though preliminary sketches have been leaked, the actual designer’s identity will remain a heavily guarded secret until they tie the knot. We’ll just have to wait and see!
The menu
Royal Chef Mark Flanagan and his team will be cooking up the delicacies and delights, so while we enjoy the spectacle, they’ll be busy in the Royal Kitchen.
The cake
According to The Daily Telegraph, “the couple have asked Claire Ptak, an east London pastry chef, to make an organic lemon and elderflower wedding cake incorporating “the bright flavors of spring.” It will be covered in buttercream and decorated with fresh flowers. It is believed to be the first time a Royal couple have eschewed tradition by not serving a fruit cake to their wedding guests.”
Wedding gifts
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have requested that those who wish to send them a wedding gift consider donating to one of several selected charities instead. The seven chosen charities “represent a range of issues that they are passionate about,” which include women’s empowerment, HIV, homelessness and the environment. The couple is just full of surprises, and positive ones to say the least!
The writer is the Dhaka Tribune Correspondent in Hollywood, CA
