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different, in both structure and tone was the June 19th wedding of
H.R.H. Prince Edward to Miss Sophie Rhys-Jones. Lacking the military
trappings and the pomp and circumstance we have come to expect from the
House of Windsor, Edward and Sophie were perhaps hoping that the fates
would be kinder to the outcome of their marriage. Windsor Castle, the true
home of the Royals hearts was the backdrop for this family rather than
State affair. Although attended by dignitaries including the Sultan
of Brunei and his wives, the couples wishes for a more intimate affair
were the order of the day.
The newly
decreed Earl and Countess of Wessex as Edward and Sopie will officially
be titled plan a much different tack for their union than did Queen Elizabeth's
eldest three children. Although they will have some public role,
this two career couple seem loathe to relinquish their independence.
Sophie will continue in her capacity as a successful publicist while her
husband will remain at the helm of his production company Ardent .
The couple will commute from their 85 room mansion at Bayshot Park, built
in 1875 by the son of the Duke of Connought.
Although
lower key than other royal weddings of this century, the spectacle drew
enthusiastic crowds to Windsor Park, and a world wide television audience
of millions. From across the courtyard of Windsor Castle, Edward,
flanked by his brothers Charles and Andrew, both acting as Best men or
'Supporters' , arrived at St. George's Chapel by foot.
His bride
and her father were transported by Rolls-Royce from the 'Royal Lodge' Windsor
residence to H.R.H. the Queen Mother. Sophie's ivory gown designed
by Brit Samantha Shore was in keeping with the brides modern and independent
style. Long sleeved with classic lines the deep cut V-neck accentuated
a gift from the groom, a black and white pearl necklace forming a cross.
Meeting her groom at the altar, Sophie repeated the vows spoken by the
Dean of Windsor, pledging to love, cherish and obey her groom. As
the Queen looked on Edward pledged his troth with a ring made from the
same Welsh gold as that of his ancestors. As they left the church
in an open carriage Sophie proved adept at the royal wave. Returning
to the castle amidst the cheers of well wishers the couple joined their
guests for an unconventional buffet of haddock and strawberries. Remaining
tight-lipped about their honeymoon plans it is rumored that after a night
at the castle a helicopter would take them the next day to an undisclosed
location.
With so
much recent turmoil it appears the Windsors have truly lit the torch of
change. It is hoped that this thoroughly modern version of a royal
marriage can run the gauntlet of a public life and the House of Windsor
may never again resemble a house of cards.
go
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