Peter Phillips' second wedding is set to be a low-key affair, but that doesn't mean it will lack in charm or intrigue. With King Charles' blessing and a unique set of circumstances, this wedding is poised to be a fascinating event, offering a glimpse into the evolving traditions of the British monarchy. Here's a breakdown of what we can expect, with a healthy dose of personal commentary and analysis.
The Royal Remarriage Rulebook
Peter Phillips' upcoming nuptials mark a significant moment in royal history, as they will be the first second marriage for a direct descendant of the monarch since King Charles' own remarriage in 2005. This sets the stage for a potential shift in royal protocol, as Charles paved the way for a more flexible approach to remarriage. Here's how:
Divorce and Remarriage: King Charles was the first heir to the throne to secure a divorce in 1996, a groundbreaking move at the time. His mother, Queen Elizabeth II, was the Supreme Governor of the Church of England, and the church's rules prohibited remarriage if a divorced person's former spouse was still alive. However, five years after Princess Diana's death, the church relaxed this rule in 'exceptional circumstances', allowing Charles to have a civil ceremony and blessing with Queen Camilla in 2005.
A New Normal: Charles' remarriage set a precedent, and it's likely that Peter's wedding will follow a similar path. The royal family is known for its adaptability, and this could be a sign of a more progressive approach to divorce and remarriage within the monarchy.
Wedding Bands and Welsh Gold
One tradition that may be continued is the use of Welsh gold for wedding bands. The Queen Mother started this tradition in 1923, and it has been carried on by subsequent generations, including Princess Anne and Princess Kate. However, Clogau St. David’s Gold Mine, the source of this rare gold, is currently inactive, raising concerns about the availability of Welsh gold for future royal weddings. Will Peter and Harriet continue this tradition, or will they opt for a different material? It's a fascinating question, especially given the potential scarcity of Welsh gold.
Flowers and Tiaras
The use of flowers and tiaras is another area where Peter's wedding may deviate from traditional royal protocol. While bouquets traditionally include a sprig of myrtle, a symbol of love and good fortune, and tiaras are a staple of royal bridal fashion, Peter's first wife, Autumn, wore Princess Anne's Festoon Tiara. It's unlikely that Harriet will choose a similar accessory, suggesting a more personalized and modern approach to floral and headpiece choices.
Dress Approval and British Designers
Royal brides are known for showcasing British designers, and Peter's wedding will be no exception. However, the dress approval process is a crucial aspect of royal weddings. With the monarch's blessing, Charles will be the first to see Harriet's chosen gown. This adds an extra layer of intrigue, as we can expect a stunning display of British fashion, with the potential for a surprise or two.
Guest List and Intimacy
The guest list for Peter's wedding is a closely guarded secret, but we can expect a mix of family and close friends. The couple's decision to keep the details private adds to the air of mystery. It's likely that Peter's divorced parents, Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips, will attend, along with his stepfather, Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, and his sister, Zara Tindall. However, the absence of Prince Harry and Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor raises questions about the dynamics within the royal family.
In my opinion, Peter and Harriet's wedding is a testament to the evolving nature of royal traditions. It's a chance for the monarchy to showcase its adaptability and embrace a more modern approach to remarriage. The guest list, dress approval, and potential surprises all contribute to a fascinating event, offering a glimpse into the personal lives of the royal family and their evolving customs.
