Well, it’s happened! Prince Harry and Meghan Markle — now the Duke and Duchess of Sussex — tied the knot on a sunny afternoon (May 19) in England at St. George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle in front of 600 people and millions more watching from around the globe.
The intimate proceedings — dubbed ‘the people’s wedding’ — left royal enthusiasts in a puddle of emotions, so we can only imagine how moving the nuptials must have been for all those close to the couple.
Not least Prince Charles, who reportedly shared some heartfelt words with the newlyweds at their lunchtime gathering hosted by Queen Elizabeth at St. George’s Hall at Windsor Castle.
“Charles gave a brilliant speech,” one of the guests who attended the reception told People Magazine of the father of the groom, adding, “Harry was very emotional.”
Describing the royal’s speech, the guest said “it was very sweet actually, very heartfelt” and that he even commented on “how proud” he was of the man his son had “grown into.”
“He ended it calling him, ‘My darling old Harry, I’m so happy for you,’ which was very sweet,” the guest continued, adding that the 69-year-old also expressed “how he’s really happy for them both.”
The insider also revealed that he was “very pleased” and “happy” to walk his now-daughter-in-law down the aisle.
Of course, Kensington Palace announced just hours before the ceremony that the former actress had asked Charles to take on the important role of escorting her down the aisle.
“Ms. Meghan Markle has asked His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales to accompany her down the aisle of the Quire of St George’s Chapel on her Wedding Day,” the palace said in a statement. “The Prince of Wales is pleased to be able to welcome Ms. Markle to The Royal Family in this way.”
It was no-doubt a bittersweet moment for the 36-year-old, whose father Thomas Markle Sr. had to pull out of the big day due to ailing health.
Harry, too, delivered a speech at the sparkling reception. He began by thanking all those who had turned out to celebrate the important day, but was quickly silenced with cheers and hollering when he said “my wife and I.”
“It was very off-the-cuff, which was lovely,” a separate guest told People Magazine. “He promised that all the Americans wouldn’t steal the swords and said, ‘Please, when you leave, be quiet as you don’t want to wake the neighbors,’ which was quite fun.”
“It was more than you would ever imagine it to be,” the guest added. “It did feel like we were really part of their very special occasion. It just felt about the two of them, which was great.”
On Saturday, May 19th the couple finally said “I do” in front of 600 friends and family packed into the pews of St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle and billions more tuning in from around the world.
Meghan Markle looked nothing short of a princess bride in a show-stopping, bespoke creation which features long sleeves, a high neck and a dramatic train.
Keeping things timeless and chic, Meghan’s dark brunette locks were swept into a stylish updo.
Upon seeing his bride for the first day, an awe-struck Harry remarked: “You look amazing. I missed you!”
Congratulations again to the newlyweds!