Meghan and Harry's Wedding: A Timeline of Events
Mark your calendars, royal enthusiasts! The wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle is an event that has been eagerly anticipated since their engagement was announced in November 2017. Here's a comprehensive guide to the key dates and details surrounding the royal wedding.
When is Meghan and Harry's Wedding?
The wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle took place on Saturday, May 19, 2018. The ceremony began at 12:00 PM BST (7:00 AM ET) at St. George's Chapel, Windsor Castle. The couple chose this date and venue for their special day, as it holds significant meaning for them both.
Why May 19, 2018?
The date of May 19 was chosen for several reasons. Firstly, it falls on a Saturday, which is a traditional day for royal weddings. Secondly, it is a convenient time for the couple's friends and family to attend, as it is not during the British school holidays. Additionally, it is a significant date for Prince Harry, as it is the weekend before his late mother, Princess Diana's birthday (July 1).
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Wedding Ceremony and Reception
The wedding ceremony was a blend of royal tradition and personal touches, reflecting the couple's unique relationship. The service was led by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, who also officiated the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton in 2011. The ceremony included readings, hymns, and music chosen by the couple, as well as a sermon delivered by the Bishop of London, the Rt Revd and Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullally.
Following the ceremony, the newlyweds took a carriage procession through Windsor Town, giving well-wishers the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the couple. The procession route took them past some of Windsor's most iconic landmarks, including the iconic Windsor Castle and the historic Long Walk.
After the procession, the couple attended a reception hosted by Her Majesty The Queen at St. George's Hall, Windsor Castle. The evening reception was held at Frogmore House, where the couple's closest friends and family celebrated their union with dinner and dancing.
Pre-Wedding Events
In the lead-up to the wedding, several pre-wedding events took place. On the eve of the wedding, Prince Harry and his brother, Prince William, attended a stag party at the Dorchester Hotel in London. Meanwhile, Meghan Markle attended a hen party with her closest friends at the Soho Farmhouse in Oxfordshire.
On the morning of the wedding, the couple followed royal tradition by spending the night apart. Prince Harry stayed at the Dorchester Hotel, while Meghan Markle stayed at Cliveden House Hotel in Berkshire with her mother, Doria Ragland.
Post-Wedding Tour
Following their wedding, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle embarked on a royal tour of Australia, Fiji, Tonga, and New Zealand. The tour began on October 16, 2018, and lasted for 16 days. During their tour, the couple visited various landmarks, met with local dignitaries, and participated in various charitable events.
The tour was a significant milestone for the couple, as it was their first official royal tour as a married couple. It also provided an opportunity for them to showcase their commitment to the Commonwealth and their dedication to humanitarian causes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who designed Meghan Markle's wedding dress? Meghan Markle's wedding dress was designed by the British fashion house, Givenchy. The dress was created by the brand's artistic director, Clare Waight Keller.
- What flowers were used in Meghan Markle's wedding bouquet? Meghan Markle's wedding bouquet was made up of a selection of seasonal flowers, including forget-me-nots (a favorite of Princess Diana), peonies, and white roses. The bouquet was designed by Philippa Craddock.
- What was the wedding cake like? The wedding cake was a lemon elderflower cake, made by Claire Ptak of the Violet Bakery in London. The cake was decorated with fresh flowers and had a modern, rustic design.