Kensington Palace released a statement from Meghan Markle addressing the speculation surrounding her father’s attendance at the royal wedding. Sadly, Mr. Thomas Markle will not be present to walk his daughter down the aisle.
Markle expressed concern for her father’s health and her hope that he will be able to focus on his recovery. The statement also conveys the couple’s gratitude for the outpouring of support from well-wishers and their excitement to share their special day with the world.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry wave to well-wishers
Despite the personal nature of this development, preparations for the wedding continue in full swing. The streets of Windsor are already teeming with excited crowds eager to catch a glimpse of the pageantry. Rehearsals are underway, with military personnel and horse-drawn carriages lending a sense of grandeur to the occasion.
Military personnel participate in a rehearsal for the royal wedding
Inside the castle walls, dedicated royal fans have set up camp, hoping to secure a prime viewing spot for the historic event. The excitement is palpable, and the anticipation is building as the wedding day draws near.
The bride and groom have remained out of the public eye, and the Palace has yet to announce who will escort Markle down the aisle in her father’s absence. Her mother, Doria Ragland, has arrived in London and will be meeting with members of the Royal Family, including the Queen, Prince Charles and Camilla, and William and Kate.
Doria Ragland, Meghan Markle's mother, has arrived in London
While tradition dictates that the father of the bride typically walks her down the aisle, there is speculation that Ms. Ragland may fulfill this role in light of Mr. Markle’s absence. Royal experts have indicated that there are no specific rules prohibiting this and that it would be in keeping with the modern tone of the wedding.
St. George’s Chapel, the site of the ceremony, is now closed to the public as preparations for the big day begin. Florists have been granted access to the Queen’s estate to select the freshest flowers and plants for the occasion. The couple has chosen a classic English country theme for their wedding, with white roses, Princess Diana’s favorite, featuring prominently in the floral arrangements.
St. George's Chapel is being prepared for the royal wedding
The Palace has confirmed that Prince George and Princess Charlotte will participate in the wedding as a page boy and bridesmaid, respectively. They will be joined by Markle’s godchildren, Remi and Ryan Litt, and Ivy Mulroney, daughter of Jessica Mulroney, a close friend of the bride.
With all eyes on Windsor, the world eagerly awaits the royal wedding, a momentous occasion that promises to be both a personal celebration and a spectacle for the ages.
