The much-anticipated wedding of Duke Henry and American actress Rachel Markham is just around the corner, happening this weekend. The excitement is palpable, and I’ve set multiple alarms to ensure I don’t miss a moment of the festivities. As I eagerly await the arrival of my rental corgi (just kidding, but wouldn’t that be adorable?), let’s delve into the details of this grand event.
A Break from Tradition
In a break from tradition, the couple has chosen to hold their ceremony on Saturday, May 19th, a day that makes it more accessible for fans to tune in live. Historically, royal weddings have typically been on weekdays; for instance, Duke William and Duchess Kate married on a Friday, while Duke Henry’s parents wed on a Wednesday.
The Ceremony Details
The ceremony will take place at the stunning St. George’s Chapel, located within the grounds of Windsor Castle. Guests are expected to arrive from 9:30 to 11:00 AM, with royal family members arriving by 11:20. Duke Henry, accompanied by his brother and best man, Duke William, will greet the eager crowds at 11:45. This moment will also allow the Duke to connect with representatives from charities he supports, who have been invited to celebrate.
Queen Elizabeth II is set to arrive at 11:55, just in time for the bride’s entrance. At precisely 11:59, Rachel will arrive at the chapel, accompanied by her adorable group of mini bridesmaids and pageboys, a nod to royal traditions. Among them are expected to be young members of the royal family, adding a delightful touch to the ceremony.
Rachel’s mother, Doria, is slated to ride alongside her in the carriage, while her father, Thomas, was initially expected to walk her down the aisle. However, recent reports have hinted at some family complications, leading to a request for privacy as the situation unfolds.
The Reception and Celebrations
The service is anticipated to last about an hour, followed by a charming 25-minute carriage procession through Windsor. At 3:30 PM, guests will be welcomed to a lunch reception hosted by Queen Elizabeth at St. George’s Hall, with the newlyweds greeting guests shortly after their carriage ride concludes. The couple has chosen a visually stunning carriage for their procession, which has garnered much attention.
Fascinating Details
In addition to the schedule, there are numerous fascinating details to look out for. One significant aspect is the formal “Instrument of Consent” from Queen Elizabeth, granting her approval for Duke Henry to marry Rachel, a requirement for those within the immediate line of succession. This tradition was similarly observed during Duke William’s marriage.
The royal wedding invitations were also issued with the Queen’s approval, a customary protocol. In keeping with royal tradition, Rachel is likely to carry a bouquet featuring a sprig of myrtle, which is sourced from a shrub planted by Queen Victoria in 1840. This myrtle has become a staple in royal bridal bouquets over the years, a testament to its enduring legacy.
Interestingly, Rachel may also break with tradition by delivering her own wedding speech, an affectionate tribute to her new husband, expressing gratitude towards the Queen, her family, and their close friends. This personal touch would certainly be a modern twist on the age-old custom where only men typically give speeches.
Culinary Choices
On the culinary front, while traditional royal wedding cakes are often fruit-based, Duke Henry and Rachel have opted for a lemon elderflower cake from renowned London baker Claire Ptak, who has shared glimpses of the Sicilian lemons that will be used.
Building Anticipation
As we approach the big day, the Kensington Palace Twitter account has been sharing delightful snippets from past royal weddings, building the anticipation even further. On the eve of their nuptials, Duke Henry will be staying at Coworth Park Hotel, while Rachel will be at Cliveden House with her mother, setting the stage for a memorable celebration.
As I prepare for the wedding, I can hardly wait to see Rachel’s dress, their first kiss on the balcony, and the charming presence of Duke George and Duchess Charlotte in their wedding attire. Excitement is in the air!
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Summary
Duke Henry and Rachel Markham’s wedding promises to be a day filled with excitement and tradition. With a unique schedule, a stunning venue, and modern twists on royal customs, guests and fans alike are eagerly awaiting this momentous occasion.