Harry and Meghan wedding chat- the build up!

[attyfan]

Anyone have any idea when the matter will be decided?

 

[AxelAnnie]

I don't think the government's concerns are purely political - I think it's nothing about currying with favour and everything about using sensible precautions with a volatile narcissist in a position of great power. Theresa May's popularity is irrelevant, and indeed I can't imagine she'll be invited to the wedding.

It's about inviting the Obamas - and whether or not that is likely to trigger Trump in a dangerous way. And if they're invited, packaging the invitation in a way that is as diplomatically sensitive as possible.

I am not sure who is worrying about what, but the Obamas were not invited to Kate and William's wedding, in spite of the fact that 40 other heads of state were invited. So I expect the entire matter is completely moot.

 

[MacMadame]

I agree, AA. First of all, the article says clearly that their wedding is not a state function:

As the wedding is not a state occasion, the Government only have a consultative role in its organization and heads of state will not be invited.

The guest list is instead being drawn up in full by Buckingham Palace rather than the Department of Culture, Media and Sport – which presides over national events such as state funerals.

So there will not be all the other Heads of State there, Obama is not a head of state, and anyway the most Trump will do if he decides it's a slight not to be invited is to make some angry tweets.

The whole article is nonsense IMO. I mean maybe when Harry & Meghan said they wanted to invite Obama some people in the government clucked and said it might be awkward but it's possible even that didn't happen.

 

[ballettmaus]

So there will not be all the other Heads of State there, Obama is not a head of state, and anyway the most Trump will do if he decides it's a slight not to be invited is to make some angry tweets.

My thoughts exactly. I don't think that he'll start a war with the UK over a wedding invitation. I certainly don't think highly of him but this is something that I can't see him do, at least not when it comes to the UK. He'll sulk and throw a hissy fit on twitter but that's probably about it.
But I think May's actions are nothing but politics. She doesn't want to spoil her chances with Trump in case she needs him for something.

 

[millyskate]

I am not sure who is worrying about what, but the Obamas were not invited to Kate and William's wedding, in spite of the fact that 40 other heads of state were invited. So I expect the entire matter is completely moot.

It's comparing apples with oranges.

My thoughts exactly. I don't think that he'll start a war with the UK over a wedding invitation. I certainly don't think highly of him but this is something that I can't see him do, at least not when it comes to the UK. He'll sulk and throw a hissy fit on twitter but that's probably about it.
But I think May's actions are nothing but politics. She doesn't want to spoil her chances with Trump in case she needs him for something.

It's not like that. He is unlikely to declare a way over a particular point, but it can definitely be a contributing, or appeasing, factor to his general attitude with a strong impact of major international decisions made around that time. Anyone who's studied history a little knows how small events snowball, particularly when leaders' egos are affected.

Theresa May's personal reputation with Trump is irrelevant, but the interest of the country at a time where it's negotiating Brexit is important. Things go beyond that though, you never know what big decision may be on the table around that time and Trump acts on impulse - based on his mood of the day.

Ultimately, everyone here can repeat at their hearts content that it's not a thing but it is - one that has been discussed widely beyond the scope of the sun. (There was even a piece on the serious Swiss-based "Euronews" channel yesterday) It may be discussed and dismissed, but not without care and I'm quite sure that Harry and Meghan will receive plenty of diplomatic advice. These are not ordinary times.

 

[AxelAnnie]

Well, I still think a lack of wedding invitation where there has been no President invited since Truman (Bess went) and Regan (who sent the American Ambassador) is a great way to sell newspapers. Extrapolating in this manner IS dangerous and damaging. Regardless of what Trump tweets....and most likely he could care less.

People need something real to worry about. Like what the bride will wear!

 

[Jenny]

It occurs to me that if indeed May is publicly fussing about this, then she's stirring up trouble for herself where there might have been none at all. Say nothing at all, and if someone somewhere eventually asks the question of whether any Trumps will be invited, defer to the Royal Family to respond.

In turn, the Royal spokesperson can simply remind everyone that this is not a state occasion and therefore the bride and groom and their families are composing their guest list privately. If the US Ambassador is on the list, then say so, perhaps with reference to the bride's American roots.

Refuse to confirm if the Obamas are invited or will be there, citing the privacy of the couple in choosing who to invite among their own friends and associates. If and when they show up, it's a one day story because they will be among many other boldface names in attendance.

 

[ballettmaus]

It's not like that. He is unlikely to declare a way over a particular point, but it can definitely be a contributing, or appeasing, factor to his general attitude with a strong impact of major international decisions made around that time. Anyone who's studied history a little knows how small events snowball, particularly when leaders' egos are affected.

If you look at Trump behavioral pattern then you can see that things he sulks about (like when someone says something he doesn't like) results in a twitter tantrum and nothing else.
Not even the Russia investigation has led to major international incidents or decisions. Why should his behavioral pattern change all of a sudden?

Theresa May's personal reputation with Trump is irrelevant, but the interest of the country at a time where it's negotiating Brexit is important. Things go beyond that though, you never know what big decision may be on the table around that time and Trump acts on impulse - based on his mood of the day.

Didn't you say that you don't think May's request is politically motivated?

 

[MacMadame]

Ultimately, everyone here can repeat at their hearts content that it's not a thing but it is

Or, conversely, people can repeat to their heart's content that it is a thing, but it isn't.

 

[millyskate]

If you look at Trump behavioral pattern then you can see that things he sulks about (like when someone says something he doesn't like) results in a twitter tantrum and nothing else.
Not even the Russia investigation has led to major international incidents or decisions. Why should his behavioral pattern change all of a sudden?




Didn't you say that you don't think May's request is politically motivated?

Everything is political in a sense - I’d say here it’s diplomatic rather than political. It’s not about the conservatives gaining momentum, the cause is wider.

 

[avivadawn]

One person that I’d truly die of shock if not invited is Prince Seeiso of Lesotho.

 

[Winnipeg]

We may never know

 

[aftershocks]

Meghan and Harry news -- they will join the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on February 28 for the first annual Royal Foundation Forum: https://twitter.com/KensingtonRoyal/status/966664681489346560

Meanwhile, PH and MM have been visiting locations around Great Britain to promote local community charitable projects and for Meagan to get to know more about her new country (including Nottingham, Brixton, Scotland, and Cardiff Castle in Wales).

It has been reported that Meghan has privately visited with some victims of the Grenfell Tower fire.

Sadly, there's also this report: https://www.standard.co.uk/news/cri...-harry-in-anthrax-threat-terror-a3773041.html
I'm praying every tight security precaution is taken for the wedding.

Happier details about the wedding on May 19, which is scheduled to take place at 12 noon, with a carriage ride immediately following: https://madaboutmeghan.blogspot.com/search/label/Royal Wedding
http://meghansmirror.com/meghan-mar...an-markle-prince-harry-wedding-venue-details/
http://meghansmirror.com/meghan-markle-prince-harry-wedding-details/
https://news.sky.com/story/church-h...ivorce-archbishop-of-canterbury-says-11264120

General news:
http://madaboutmeghan.blogspot.com/

New photos and video of Meghan from an old 2012 fashion shoot:
http://www.eonline.com/news/916192/meghan-markle-modeled-chic-looks-in-2012-fashion-photo-shoot

At the Endeavour Awards event a few weeks ago, Meghan wore a tailored tux-style suit by Alexander McQueen. On the same evening in Norway, Kate wore an elegant gown by Alexander McQueen. Kate is looking so gorgeous and carrying her third pregnancy so well. She seems very relaxed and happy (she must be very pleased to finally have a sister-in-law her age to share the ups and downs of royal life with behind-the-scenes).
http://www.redcarpet-fashionawards....ander-mcqueen-endeavour-fund-awards-ceremony/
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/fashion/people/meghan-markle-duchess-cambridge-alexander-mcqueen-night/
https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/style/913333/kate-middleton-news-dress-norway
https://www.vanityfair.com/style/20...ape-alexander-mcqueen-gown-norway-gala-dinner
https://ca.hellomagazine.com/fashion/02018020142415/meghan-markle-kate-middleton-alexander-mcqueen/
https://www.harpersbazaar.com/celeb...ate-middleton-meghan-markle-matching-outfits/

 

[aftershocks]

Wedding dress speculation and style ideas abound:

http://www.gillianmillion.com/rw_co...anne-neville-beaded-cherish-wedding-dress.jpg
https://www.pronovias.com/wedding-dress-flared-long-raigal-61017
https://www.instagram.com/p/BfOpED0hPk7/?taken-by=millanova_official
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/571746115166081621/
https://www.magbridal.com/p-marvelous-satin-bateau-neckline-ball-gown-wedding-dress-69126.html
https://i.pinimg.com/564x/5f/dc/48/5fdc48b033f441f07dffa00e21935de7.jpg
https://i.pinimg.com/564x/e9/bd/5d/e9bd5dc99a82c037658a66977470a033.jpg
https://i.pinimg.com/564x/c2/4c/1a/c24c1ac95ba4a3802411dae27402dacd.jpg

 

[snippy]

Wedding dress speculation and style ideas abound:

http://www.gillianmillion.com/rw_co...anne-neville-beaded-cherish-wedding-dress.jpg
https://www.pronovias.com/wedding-dress-flared-long-raigal-61017
https://www.instagram.com/p/BfOpED0hPk7/?taken-by=millanova_official
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/571746115166081621/
https://www.magbridal.com/p-marvelous-satin-bateau-neckline-ball-gown-wedding-dress-69126.html
https://i.pinimg.com/564x/5f/dc/48/5fdc48b033f441f07dffa00e21935de7.jpg
https://i.pinimg.com/564x/e9/bd/5d/e9bd5dc99a82c037658a66977470a033.jpg
https://i.pinimg.com/564x/c2/4c/1a/c24c1ac95ba4a3802411dae27402dacd.jpg

The first one is probably my favorite

 

[aftershocks]

^^ Yes @snippy, I really like that one too for the lace detail. The second one a lot of people seem to like for its smooth flowing classic lines, which it is felt might be Meghan's aesthetic since she is said to have loved Carolyn Bessette's wedding dress. But I don't think that necessarily means she would wear that type of slim flowing style for herself, especially not as a royal bride. I really love the cut and style of the posted dresses. I found the Jacobean embroidered dress so regal, but it's probably too elaborate, plus I don't think Meghan will wear long sleeves.

Many feel the boatneck style would look good on Meghan since she looked good in that boatneck style blazer she wore on her visit to Cardiff Castle in Wales:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-5284205/Meghan-Markle-shows-pull-good-dressing.html

Here's some Meghan wedding dress discussion:
http://www.theroyalforums.com/forum...g-dress-suggestions-and-musings-43853-56.html
Scroll down for links to more dresses
A boatneck style dress suggested on that site:
https://www.theknot.com/fashion/mb4010-couture-damour-wedding-dress

Top ten most expensive wedding dresses. I like Amal Clooney's dress by Oscar de la Renta: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bVZRfVQBDH8

Wedding dress fashion show by Pnina Tornai -- mostly fanciful, but well constructed and interesting styles:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KvuZSmLn7r4

Here's some interesting insight into Meghan's character from an article she wrote for Darling magazine before she met Prince Harry. She describes her early years of struggle to make it in the acting profession:
http://darlingmagazine.org/meghan-markle-career/

 

[cygnus]

^^ Yes @snippy, I really like that one too for the lace detail. The second one a lot of people seem to like for its smooth flowing classic lines, which it is felt might be Meghan's aesthetic since she is said to have loved Carolyn Bessette's wedding dress. But I don't think that necessarily means she would wear that type of slim flowing style for herself, especially not as a royal bride. I really love the cut and style of the posted dresses. I found the Jacobean embroidered dress so regal, but it's probably too elaborate, plus I don't think Meghan will wear long sleeves.


Wedding dress fashion show by Pnina Tornai -- mostly fanciful, but well constructed and interesting styles:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KvuZSmLn7r4

The first one in the Pnina video would be perfect!

 

[aftershocks]

^^ a bit too frou-frou for historic Windsor Castle locale no doubt...

People need something real to worry about. Like what the bride will wear!

Right. See above wedding dress speculation ... and don't forget about the Royal Foundation Forum where Fab Four will appear together on February 28.

 

[Vagabond]

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Invite Members of Public to Wedding Day

It sounds like there won't be any room for Ivanka or her dad.

 

[PDilemma]

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Invite Members of Public to Wedding Day

It sounds like there won't be any room for Ivanka or her dad.

Those people are apparently invited to stand around outside and cheer. They can't all be invited in as the chapel only holds about 2000.

I'm not sure why it is considered so very gracious to invite people to stand around outside.

 

[ballettmaus]

Those people are apparently invited to stand around outside and cheer. They can't all be invited in as the chapel only holds about 2000.

I'm not sure why it is considered so very gracious to invite people to stand around outside.

I'm surprised they think they have to invite people to do that. I would have thought there'd be more than enough people to line the streets.

 

[PDilemma]

I'm surprised they think they have to invite people to do that. I would have thought there'd be more than enough people to line the streets.

They'll be allowed on the grounds instead of just the surrounding streets. I still don't see it as an overly gracious thing to do. Probably a very long day standing out in the weather, rain or shine, and they won't see much.

 

[MacMadame]

I'm surprised they think they have to invite people to do that. I would have thought there'd be more than enough people to line the streets.

I read the article and it sounds more like the "inviting" process is a way to limit who shows up so there isn't chaos and madness.

From what they say, it sounds like in that culture, it is considered an honor to be chosen. I assume, if someone feels like PDilemma, they'd turn down the invite if their "Lord Lieutenant" selected them.

 

[skatesindreams]

Preparations for the wedding continue, as Meaghan Markle is baptized:
https://www.cnn.com/2018/03/08/europe/meghan-markle-baptized-intl/index.html

 

[Cachoo]

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Invite Members of Public to Wedding Day

It sounds like there won't be any room for Ivanka or her dad.

In the West Wing people refer to Ivanka as the "princess royale." Do you think that will help her get an invite?

 

[Winnipeg]

It must be a rather weird work environment in the West Wing these days.

 

[aftershocks]

Preparations for the wedding continue, as Meaghan Markle is baptized:
https://www.cnn.com/2018/03/08/europe/meghan-markle-baptized-intl/index.html

The Archbishop of Canterbury has indicated to the press that Meghan's divorce from someone who is still living "has been dealt with." The Archbishop (the most Rev. Justin Welby) also had this to say on a radio broadcast shortly after the engagment announcement. See a brief video clip below:
www.bbc.com/news/av/uk-42355856/harry-and-meghan-serious-about-faith-archbishop

"I am very very sure after conversations with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle that they have not chosen a church wedding just as a tick-box exercise... they both have a profound sense of commitment and seriousness about their faith and about their lives together which is quite inspirational..."

Reportedly Meghan has developed a bond with the Archbishop over the time that she's been studying with him. More than likely during their courtship Meghan made the decision to convert and to be baptized so that she could share every aspect of Harry's faith with him and their future children. I'm certain H&M knew that marrying was in their future by at least early last year, if not late in 2016. Therefore, most likely Meghan had been introduced to the Archbishop at some point early in her courtship with Prince Harry, as the royals apparently regularly attend private church services at chapels within the various palaces.

Since Harry is still fifth in line to the throne until the birth of the new Cambridge baby, he is still required to receive the Queen's approval before marrying (the Queen must approve the marriages of inheritors to throne, through the sixth in line; Harry will become sixth in line after the birth of W&K's third child, in April).

Yesterday, the Queen's official approval was announced and recorded in the Books of the Privy Council. An excerpt from the text:

The 14th day of March 2018
The Queen's Most Excellent Majesty in Council

My Lords,

I declare my consent to a contract of matrimony between My Most Dearly Beloved Grandson Prince Henry Charles Albert David of Wales and Rachel Meghan Markle, which Consent I am causing to be signified under the Great Seal and to be entered into the Books of the Privy Council.

So we will probably be hearing their full official names recited during the wedding ceremony.

This article cites similar phrasing in the Queen's approval for William and Kate to marry:
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uk...ed-grandson-William-and-trusty-Catherine.html

The article says observers have been comparing the wording of the two announcements, but I think it's a bit silly and counterproductive to do so. When W&K's announcement was worded "Our," back then Prince Philip was still performing public duties. At this point, he has retired and I would imagine the Queen stating "My," instead of "Our," is reflective of Philip's retirement from public life. In addition, the Queen and Prince Philip had known Kate for quite some time, since Kate had met William at college in their late teens, early twenties. They'd been seriously dating for nearly 10 years, therefore surely the Queen and Prince Philip had gotten to know Kate intimately for at least five or six years or so in advance of their engagement.

There are additional reports that the Queen had an intimate lunch with Meghan last May on Mother's Day. That's very interesting, and another indication that there's a lot the public does not know and is not privy to knowing, since the report was not confirmed by Kensington Palace. In any case, it seems obvious that the Queen and Prince Philip hold kind regard for Meghan, but they clearly do not know her as well as they knew Kate in advance of her marriage to William. Therefore, the notable difference in phrasing of the marriage approval documentation is natural. Furthermore, I think that Harry's nearest and dearest friends and family are overjoyed by how happy he has been since Meghan came into his life. For that matter, surely the Queen was won over not only by seeing Harry's happiness, but by meeting Meghan herself and certainly by witnessing that her temperamental corgis were immediately charmed by Meghan and completely approved of Meghan's presence in the royal chambers. As Harry laughingly noted during the engagement interview, instead of their usual curt barking, the Queen's corgis welcomingly wagged their tails and reclined comfortably at Meghan's feet.

 

[aftershocks]

Anyone have any idea when the matter will be decided?

I doubt that Meghan/Harry or any of the royals ever seriously gave a second thought to any of the furor over whether Trump or any of his ilk deserved an invite to the royal wedding. It's not a state occasion, and Harry & Meghan have the right to invite only their closest friends and family, humanitarian-related colleagues, and British & Commonwealth officials whom they truly respect and admire. Mostly, it is shaping up to be an intimate family wedding, shared with an audience of respectful and caring well-wishers.

 

[aftershocks]

http://people.com/royals/meghan-markle-baptism-church-of-england/

Harry's no longer a third wheel:
https://www.vanityfair.com/style/ph...y-third-wheel-photos-william-kate-middleton#1

To correct a previous post of mine: UK Mother's Day is March 11, so the Queen's luncheon with Meghan and Harry occurred then, not last May.

Also, here's a recent video of the Archbishop of Canterbury briefly reflecting on Meghan's baptism and refusing to answer the reporter's prying personal questions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dDNZHbXP4XU Scroll to 17:18

 

[Jenny]

Some fun details about the invitation here, and the wedding cake