The wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at Windsor Castle on May 19, 2018, was a highly anticipated and historic event that captivated the world. As a castle touring enthusiast, you’ll be delighted to learn about the significance of this royal wedding and the unique details that made it a truly memorable occasion.
The Significance of Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, has a rich history of hosting royal weddings. The choice of this venue for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding was significant for several reasons:
- Intimate and Private Setting: Unlike other royal wedding venues like Westminster Abbey, Windsor Castle offered a more intimate and private setting for the couple’s ceremony.
- Historical Significance: Windsor Castle has been the site of 17 royal weddings in the last 150 years, making it a fitting location for this historic event.
- Royal Tradition: The castle’s long-standing association with the British monarchy added to the sense of tradition and grandeur surrounding the wedding.
The Ceremony and Traditions
The wedding ceremony at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, combined British royal traditions with modern elements and the bride’s African-American heritage:
- Officiated by the Dean of Windsor and the Archbishop of Canterbury: The service was conducted by the Dean of Windsor, David Conner, and the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby.
- Passionate Address by Bishop Michael Curry: The Most Rev Bishop Michael Curry, the president of the US Episcopal Church, delivered a powerful address that referenced the African-American spiritual song “Down by the Riverside” and emphasized the power of love.
- Incorporation of Personal Touches: The couple incorporated several personal touches into the ceremony, including a gospel choir and a cellist.
The Attire and Accessories
The couple’s attire and accessories were carefully chosen to reflect their individual styles and the occasion:
- Meghan Markle’s Dress and Tiara: Meghan Markle wore a white boat-neck dress designed by Clare Waight Keller for Givenchy, along with a diamond bandeau tiara loaned by the Queen.
- Prince Harry’s Uniform: Prince Harry wore the frockcoat uniform of the Blues and Royals, with special permission from the Queen to keep his short beard.
The Celebrations and Guests
The wedding was attended by 600 guests, including a mix of celebrities, royals, and public figures:
| Guest | Affiliation |
|---|---|
| Oprah Winfrey | Renowned talk show host |
| George and Amal Clooney | Actor and human rights lawyer |
| David and Victoria Beckham | Former footballer and fashion designer |
| Sir Elton John | Legendary musician |
After the ceremony, the couple took a horse-drawn carriage ride through Windsor, greeting thousands of well-wishers. The day concluded with two receptions, one hosted by the Queen and another by Prince Charles.
The Economic Impact
The royal wedding generated significant economic benefits for the United Kingdom:
- Estimated Cost: The royal family paid for the wedding, with estimated costs of £32 million, including £2 million to £4 million for security.
- Economic Boost: The wedding was estimated to have generated £1 billion for the British economy, including £300 million from foreign tourists and £50 million from merchandise and souvenirs.
Conclusion
The wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at Windsor Castle was a truly remarkable event that blended tradition, modernity, and diversity. As a castle touring enthusiast, you can appreciate the significance of this historic occasion and the unique details that made it a memorable celebration.
References:
- https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-44175216
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wedding_of_Prince_Harry_and_Meghan_Markle
- https://people.com/royals/prince-harry-meghan-markle-wedding-details/
- https://www.royal.uk/history-royal-weddings-windsor-castle
- https://edition.cnn.com/interactive/2018/05/world/royal-wedding-cnnphotos/