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| Mail Online |
Rumours swirled when Pippa attended the Frost Summer Party in aid of the British Heart Foundation, alongside Princess Eugenie, with her left hand resolutely hidden in every photo. Interestingly, Pippa wore the popular L.K. Bennett 'Karo' Dress for the event; Kate reportedly wore the dress in blue for the SAS event in Hereford over the weekend.
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| PA Royal Reporters Twitter Feed |
Pippa beamed as she showed off her art deco sparkler today. It's a beautiful ring, isn't it?
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| Daily Mail |
The Telegraph reports the ring is by Robinson Pelham, a favoured jeweller of the Middletons who created Kate's wedding earrings:
The octagonal ring that Miss Middleton carefully displayed to waiting photographers is understood to have been purchased from the London jeweller Robinson Pelham. The company has been a regular source of jewellery for the Middleton family, and provided the diamond earrings the Duchess of Cambridge wore on her wedding day. The girls’ mother, Carole, as well as Pippa herself, wore pieces by Robinson Pelham.
While the company would not comment on the ring, The Telegraph’s jewellery expert Annabel Davidson described the piece as “quite Art Deco in style” with a central stone that is “upwards of three carats”. Diamond experts yesterday valued the ring at between £150,000 and £200,000. Sarah Sheard, of Hatton Jewels, said: “The diamonds have an excellent clarity and white colour.”
A closer look.
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| Rebecca English Twitter Feed |
It's obviously an incredibly exciting time for the Middleton family who are utterly delighted for Pippa. The wedding - which will take place next year - will undoubtedly be one of the most talked-about and glamorous affairs of 2017. The two are said to have bonded over their love of sport and outdoor pursuits. They love physical challenges and earlier this year successfully completed a 33-mile cross-country ski race in Norway.
James Matthews is the co-founder of Eden Rock Capital Management Group, an investment advisory firm with expertise in credit and structured finance. The financier serves as the company's chief executive officer. His parents bought the luxury Eden Rock hotel in St Barths in 1995, and it is currently one of the Top 100 hotels in the world.
The popular Caribbean resort is visited by a number of celebrities; the Middleton family has holidayed there recently, too. Prince William has an enormously close and warm relationship with the Middletons and it appears they enjoy the same with James. Carole has been photographed joining James and Pippa for dinner several times.
How did the proposal take place? More from the Mail Online's story:
'Heads down against the breeze that blows across the peaks of the Lake District on the sunniest of days, the couple had their eyes on a distant hill. Like other weekend walkers out on the fells last Saturday, Pippa Middleton and her boyfriend James Matthews paused to enjoy the magnificent views from the summit and to catch their breath.
But as Pippa took in the scenery, her romantic beau was dropping to his knees and preparing an even more spectacular sight – drawing out a stunning diamond ring from deep within a pocket. Kneeling before her James asked Pippa to marry him. And within a moment she said ‘yes’ and suddenly Britain’s most eligible young woman was off the market.'
Pippa and James were briefly an item in 2012 and rekindled their relationship last year. Richard Kay reports the 40-year-old hedge fund manager asked Michael Middleton for his permission before popping the question to his daughter. Mr Kay wrote: "The engagement, which I understand took the 32-year-old former party planner completely by surprise, has thrilled Kate and William and delighted the duchess’s parents Michael and Carole Middleton. Another family friend says: ‘Mike and Carole are very happy. They like James and they are sure he will make Pippa very happy.'"
More from the article:
'Their marriage will not just cement Matthews into the wider family circle that William and Kate have established, it will also link them to the celebrity world inhabited by James’s brother Spencer, the coke-snorting louche lothario of reality TV show Made In Chelsea.
More intriguingly the union will connect two families with uncannily similar backgrounds. Like Pippa, James is the grandchild of a coalminer from the North of England.
Like Pippa, he boasts a parent of humble origin who has achieved considerable wealth: Carole Middleton is a former air hostess who grew up in a council flat, while James’s father David, who made millions in the motor trade began his working life as a trainee mechanic in Rotherham.
Many will seize on both families rags-to-riches journey from working class ancestry to moneyed middle-class success as a shining example of the social fluidity of modern Britain.'
Indeed, the question many royal watchers are asking is, will Kate be her sister's matron of honour at the wedding? It's a very interesting question and undoubtedly a topic that will have been discussed. Given Kate's public profile, she wont want to take the limelight away from the bride. Royal commentator Victoria Arbiter noted on Twitter it is "not so much about protocol more Kate wouldn't want to upstage the bride & in some circles married women aren't bridesmaids". Kate and Pippa are, however, incredibly close, so there's no question Kate will be very much involved whether it be a formal role such as matron of honour or behind-the-scenes planning the special day. Pippa was a source of assistance and support as her sister prepared for the royal wedding in 2011, and Kate will want to return the favour.
Pippa was thrust into the limelight after she made global headlines for wearing a figure-hugging Alexander McQueen dress at the royal wedding. Media attention and the paprazzi glare have become a part of her life since. She's a divisive figure, often garnering criticism for her career choices which have included writing columns for publications such as Waitrose and publishing a party-planning book called Celebrate. I think it was always going to be challenging for her to forge a career in the public eye without the royal connection angle being mentioned. It's been quite a journey for her and Kate, two sisters who grew up in Berkshire, and became known worldwide.
One observation about Pippa I think we can safely make: she's been a good sister to Kate. She was by her side throughout the 2007 break up, and I can recall seeing a video from that time, when paps were attempting to provoke Kate, and Pippa quickly stepped in to her sister's defence. Apart from being sisters, they are firm friends who share many similar interests from the outdoors to tennis, and the same fashion brands. For those of you who have sisters, you'll know it's a very special and unique bond to share.
Below we see Pippa and Carole with Kate as she arrived at The Goring the day before the wedding. Preparations, dress shopping, flowers, choosing a wedding venue, invitations and much more will be on their minds once again.
The children will surely have a role, too. Charlotte will likely be just gone two at the time of the wedding, but George will almost certainly be involved in the nuptials as a page boy. The ever-talented ladies at What Would Kate Do shared this image on Twitter.
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| What Would Kate Do Twitter Feed |
Who could forget Prince William's memorable page boy appearance including the sailor suit he wore for the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of York?
And this adorable outfit for the wedding of Camilla Dunne to the Honourable Rupert Soames.
Of course, talk has already begun about the subject of Pippa's choice of designer for the wedding dress.
'The wedding, which has been predicted to take place in 2017, is bound to be the wedding of the year. Additional details aren’t known at this time. Will Pippa wear a white silk Alexander McQueen gown—like the one she donned as a bridesmaid at the Royal Wedding? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure, if she can cause such a stir as a bridal party member, her wedding day look is not likely to disappoint.'
She favours a broad spectrum of designers from Temperley London and Tabitha Webb to Matthew Williamson and Suzannah. Below, images from Temperley London's bridal lookbook.
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| Temperley London |
What Kate wears to this event will be of great interest. The Middleton women are more than adept at coordinating and complementing each other at special occasions - from the royal wedding to most recently at Prince George's and Princess Charlotte's christenings.
All that remains is to congratulate Pippa and James!
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| Mail Online |
We expect to see photos for George's third birthday on Friday!
Exactly how long have they been dating?
ReplyDeleteIncluding in 2012?
Pippa looks pretty in the "Karo" dress and I think
ReplyDeletethat color favors her. I like the blue "Karo" Charlotte pictured yesterday better though. Now that Richard Kay has announced that Pippa is engaged and it is world news, will we see the engagement ring soon? Pippa looks prettier and happier than ever before so far. Wishing she and James the very best.
James Matthews was one of the 8 member team that did the Race Across America with Pippa and her brother in June, 2014.
ReplyDeleteCongrats to the happy couple! IF it is true, probably it means another decade old outfit for George, poor boy! :-D
ReplyDeleteWhen Pippa was at Eden Rock Hotel on St. Bart's in August, 2015, Carole, Michael, James and Donna Airs were there also as guests of James Matthews. His parents own the hotel. Pippa, James and James Matthews did that bicycle charity race in the U.S. in the summer of 2014. Pippa and Matthews did date for awhile in 2012. Then she started dating Nico. Apparently Pippa broke up with Nico because she had started dating James again after Nico had moved to Switzerland or wherever he moved to. James Matthews has had opportunities to get to know Pippa in family sporting outings and family vacations. That probably helped a lot. Perhaps Pippa perceived Nico's move as him breaking up with her in the first place. Seems like James Matthews perceived the same thing.
DeleteWhy would Pippa dress her pages in Williams old clothes? And how on earth can it be "poor boy"?
DeleteDecade...? More like a generation! Let's hope it's not the pink one shown here. What a riot! LOL 😂😂😂
DeleteAgree Rebecca. Some do not get the historical and traditional aspects of the BRF!. However this is about Pippa and huge congratulations to her and James. I have a feeling the nuptials may take place at the Eden Rock Hiotel and may be very private and controlled.
DeleteOkat. Generation! Let's hope it's not the pink if it is happening LOL
DeleteThat made me laugh, Anett. I had visions of George walking down the aisle in a sailor suit smelling of mothballs with the bridesmaids holding their noses!
Delete15:12, I do agree with you that not everyone can appreciate the historic and traditional aspects the BRF. We have also seen many weddings mentioned right here because of W&K's attendance, and I have yet to see one where the children in the wedding party were dressed in contemporary outfits. Different strokes for different folks. I thought that was a good thing. :)
DeleteAnd that's an interesting idea about the wedding taking place at the Eden Rock! It would solve the privacy issue! And the speculation begins.... :)
Bluhare your imagination running wild:-)
DeleteBluhare, "George walking down the aisle in a sailor suit smelling of mothballs with the bridesmaids holding their noses!" You made my day!
DeleteAnett, It is Very Common & Traditional for Families to keep "Timeless Heirloom" Clothing (especially Childrens Clothing) & Accessories (inc Jewelry) even those that are Monogramed, that Future Generations can wear as Vintage Family Items! This may not be your thing, but I'd hardly say "Poor Boy" referencing Prince George! Especially among Royal Families Most of All.... That's part of Their legacy! Is There A Need To Be Sour, as opposed to just voicing that it's not your style?
DeleteThat is so cute, Bluhare!!! Hopefully they would air it! It would look very cute on George but that was from Sarah's wedding so alas not likely. But some form of sailor suit would look sweet on George. So many adorable possibilities. (But I did think whoever that child was at the Trooping standing by Camilla seemed a bit old for one - and I'm very conservative about such things.)
DeleteA sailor suit would a so sweet on George. That would be another nice nod to William. I agree though that since that was Andrew and Fergie's wedding George won't be wearing a sailor suit.
DeleteI agree, that boy on the balcony should not have been asked to wear a young boy sailor suit.
Thank you Paola and Julia. Anett's comment cracked me up; glad to see some humor isn't wasted on everyone!
DeleteHaha, bluhare. You always have the effect of me lightly shaking my head with a smirk at your antics :P Never change, my dear!
DeleteHumor is always a good thing, and is so especially needed today, Bluhare.
Delete"A merry heart doeth good like a medicine."
DeleteAww...I think it's wonderful news! Congratulations to them both.
ReplyDeleteAs I understand it, they have been dating for about a year - it's a fairly quick romance. It seems possible George might be an attendant, as they supposedly plan to marry next year and he will be almost four. It will be interesting to see if they choose Berkshire or London for the wedding - banns could probably be read for either.
ReplyDeleteSomehow, I think George might be a more likely attendant than Kate but we shall see. In toff circles, married women are seldom bridesmaids; children or unmarried younger sisters are more common. It would also set a precedent if James does marry Donna Air, as is speculated. (A double wedding would be lovely but most unlikely - however, it will be interesting to see if Freya is one of the attendants - she's about the right age.)
Congratulations to the happy couple in any event. Pippa will make a lovely bride.
They have known echother for ages it seems (even dated in 2012) so not as whirwind as it seems :)
DeleteI agree that George seem very possible, Kate less so but wouldnt be shocked if she was in the party.
I could even see them getting married out of the country, maybe at his parents resort. Who knows, we don't, and maybe they dont even know yet? :)
Destination weddings are hugely popular these days, and it certainly would be an excellent way to preserve privacy. But I don't know - the Middletons have embraced a certain upper class British traditionalism which means a church wedding, and children as attendants - beach resort weddings aren't seen as quite the thing - although I suppose the parents owning one makes a difference.
DeleteStill, I'm putting my vote in for a wedding at St. Mary's in Bucklebury, (I'm thinking it's a rather fine old church) followed by a private wedding breakfast at the family home, possibly with a marquee - George as an attendant (probably not in pink although outfits like that for pages are still very common - I admit, I think they are adorable!) My second vote is for London with a stylish reception at some place like the Kensington Palace Orangery - lovely - but I think that less likely.
There will be no doubt a lot of nonsense in the press about Party Pieces tat, but I suspect it will all be most tasteful.
Didn't James Rothschild marry at the KP orangerie? It must be lovely and it's almost as if they married in Eilliam and Kate's home ;)
DeleteNot whirlwind at all Rebecca.
DeleteIt seems that James Matthews and James Middleton were friends for awhile, maybe after Pippa dated him a couple of times in 2012. That might be where Matthews and James met, I don't know for sure yet. They were all on St. Bart's in August of 2014 to obstensibly train for the Otillo event the following month. By then it seems that Matthews and James had become friends already.
The Middletons ARE an upper class British family, from an aristocratic lineage. "Embraced" sounds as though they put on airs, which they most definitely do not do. Have you seen the expression on Michael's face when he is around the queen?
DeleteTrue humility.
Carole and Kate romping with George?
I do understand how one can not be aware of the Middleton heritage. The tabloids endlessly play up the stewardess, coal-miner aspects of Carole's background. Pedigree or not, Carole seems like a steady, sure guide in that family with an elegance
and class beyond bloodlines.
I've seen true nobility in faces found in the most
humble of surroundings. I've also seen meanness, pettiness, and jealousy in
royals.You can't fake character for long. It will out.
Amen, 2000.
DeleteMichael Middleton's family were landed gentry or merchants. Don't get me wrong, they were very successful, and held some important positions, but they weren't aristocrats.
DeleteI do agree about character willing out, though. Very true.
A Baroness in recent memory, among others.Not referring to the middle ages.Have you not seen the photos of Catherine's relatives in their coronets?
DeleteBut I was more impressed by one family's loss of three brothers and the high calibre of citizens they generally were. Educated, community leaders.They very much traveled in aristocratic circles.
Catherine's great grandmother, I believe it was, whose brothers died in WWI,
worked as a volunteer nurse on the estates of two different relatives whose manor houses were converted
to hospitals for war wounded.
A designation of landed gentry applied to the upper class. I agree that class, or lack thereof, can be found at every level. And, then there are natures aristocrats.
DeleteMuch love and congrats to Pippa and James! Thank you, dearest Charlotte, for the lovely pics and information on the couple. I look forward to your new “Kate Loves" post.
DeleteTo Anonymous @ 20:00, Thank you for the true and kind remarks.
~Marni, from Texas
Kate's great uncle was best friends with Diana's grandfather. They attended university together and enlisted in WWI together.
DeleteOther of Michael's ancestors ran in aristocratic circles also. A lot of the young Lupton, Middleton men back in the day.
Delete0202: Kate's family is not aristocratic. If they were they would be billed as such and there wouldn't have been all the talk about social climbing. If they were already there, why the talk? If you go back far enough a lot of us are descended from a king or other high nobility. That doesn't mean that we are aristocratic today. Keep in mind that lines and titles descend from the male not female, so while the Middletons may have aristocratic ties and associations, they are not aristocrats themselves.
DeleteAlthough I'm pleased you would think much of my family. My great grandmother lost three brothers in WWI too, and they all volunteered to help the war effort. I have their mementos from France and of their service back then.
1829: Kate's great uncle may well have been friendly with Spencer but nowhere have I read they were best friends. Did you see that somewhere? Would like to see that if you can find it. Thank you.
I have that in my files Bluhare. I will text that Info when I find it.
DeleteBluhare,
DeleteI found one already. There were a lot of articles about the Lupton boys in the news when Kate attended the Battle of Soames Memorial Services. Some even had excerpt of letters written by her great uncles from that battlefield. She lost three great uncles there. I will reference those also when I find them.
The Express, Nick Gutteridge, 7/4/16, one article about her great uncle and Diana's grandfather. There are more.
Bluhare,
DeleteAlso, if you look up, Albert, 7th Earl of Spencer,
Wikipedia, it mentions that Albert (Jack) Spencer and Lionel Lupton were friends.
There's more...
Bluhare,
DeleteI think you would really enjoy all the aristocratic relationships and heritages of Kate through Michael, in case you have any doubts.
A wealth of that information is available by googling "The Lupton Family". (Set aside an hour or so.) lol
2334/2355: Don't know if you're the same person, but thank you. I knew they were acquainted; it was the "best" friends that threw me. That I have not seen.
DeleteI feel odd congratulating based on a DM article. But if you report on it it must at least have some kind of credibility!
ReplyDeleteDid you read the part where the middletons and the Cambridges released statements congratulating the couple?
DeleteI was commenting before all that became public :)
Deletecongratulation to the both of them pippa looks pretty in her karo dress hmm but I think will see the duchess as matron of honor
ReplyDeleteWho thinks a Jan/Feb wedding on the island of St. Barts?
ReplyDeleteThat's exactly what I was thinking!
DeleteThis may be a redeux-
DeleteNever thought I'd say it, but I agree with you, Moxie. Doesn't the Matthews family
own a fabulous island restort? Perfect controlled set-up. Also agree with timing-New Year's, disguised as a party.
17:17, I like the disguise idea. :)
DeleteThis is wonderful and exciting news and looking forward to seeing Kate's role in the wedding. Hmmm perhaps baby #3 will be put on hold?
ReplyDeleteI'm curious about wedding planning and if it's MORE complicated due to who her sister/brother-in-law are! Just think about the extra security needed etc. I wonder if doing a destination wedding (Mustique?) would make it less intrusive for everyone too since they can ban paparazzi then:)
ReplyDeleteI absolutley think it can be harder. Do you wanna wear a tiara? Hmmm.. if I do people will talk about how she's trying to be someone she's not (even though everyone can and do wear tiaras nowdays). If she wants Kate to be there she will have to take some dates into consideration. Security etc.
DeleteCannot control my excitement about this! Another Middleton wedding!
ReplyDeleteI have mixed feelings about wearing the ring and then hiding her hand. She could have left the ring at home until the announcement....
ReplyDeleteMy daughter is getting married in two months and we have been reasonable in our costs. I cannot imagine making all of the decisions if you had millions to work with.
She didn't wear the ring last night. There were some pictures of her without it.
DeleteAgain, it was the media causing controversy.
DeleteApparently some commenters don't realise this, Rebecca and anon 15:42.
DeleteRemarks were made about Pippa being "coy" about the ring and going after media
attention.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-3697242/Now-engagement-ring-Kate-Proud-Pippa-flashes-diamond-sparkler-hedge-fund-beau-popped-question.html
ReplyDeleteTurns out it was true this time :D Very happy news :) And a stunning ring! She seems very happy, so all the best to them!
ReplyDeleteI hope George will be in the wedding party. I think Kate might not be, but they don't seem like the jelous kind of sisters so I could see Kate being in the wedding party as well. We'll just have to wait and see. But what happy times :)
It's not so much jealous, it's just not as usual in traditional weddings to have adult bridesmaids, although it is getting more common if the bride has many girlfriends. I do believe this will be a traditional wedding.
DeleteFor an example, look at the weddings of Diana's three siblings - for the first, Jane, Diana was a young bridesmaid, just as Pippa was, for the second, Sarah, she was not a bridesmaid, and when her brother was married, she was married and William was a page. It is less family feeling than style. I suspect this is the route Pippa will go - and no tiara - never a tiara unless there is a family one.
I don't see Catherine toting Pipa's train.
DeleteWell, Pippa was a grown woman being a bridesmaid for Kate so I don't rule it out, but I agree. But it's all their choice (even though people will think it's their place to judge somehow).
Deleteme either, 16:47. I can see her hosting the wedding at Amner Hall.
DeleteThere is a family and historical chapel right on the estate.
Julia,
DeleteIs that "a British thing". Many here in the U.S. wear tiaras for their weddings. Of course we don't have the generations of aristocracy to glean the tiaras from.
Someone asked me this morning if I thought the Duchess would be in her sister's wedding. My instant reaction was that whatever she would have WANTED to do before she married into the Royal Family is what she will still want to do. My sense is that she and William have decided they will try through their lives to remain true on a few core universal human experiences in a way that they would have done them had they not been royalty. That said I am sure some compromises will need to be made given media, etc. but I think that what will guide them throughout is what the two sisters always visualized growing up, and the rest will follow. Very happy for Pippa. I think she's had a hard road and kept her chin up throughout.
DeleteKate and Pippa have always appeared to be *sisters* first and I don't think there will be any issues like status, jealousy, etc. Pippa has been very supportive of Kate and I cannot imagine it being any different now that Pippa will be getting married.
DeleteI'm genuinely happy for Pippa. Over the years, some of the speculation about her personal life has been rather intrusive and unkind, to say the least.
Ariagurl: Well said. The truth is that the Middleton family has conducted themselves exceptionally well for a long time. It is who they are.
DeleteAriagurl, I agree with your instant reaction, and the rest of your comment. Well said!
DeleteMany great points made, but Anon 23:52 You Nailed It! Well Said!:)
DeleteOh & Have people forgotten the recent reveal that Michael is a Descendant of King Edward III? Not to Mention Family as Courtiers & Also Chaplain to Henry VIII?.... Not just Merchants!
Tiaras can be worn of course - often fake ones, or real ones can be hired but generally at the type of wedding I suspect Pippa will have, they aren't worn unless there is a family one passed down. A good example (and not bad examples for the type of wedding Pippa is likely to have) are the weddings of Camilla's children. Her daughter wore the family tiara. But her daughter-in-law wore flowers and a diamond brooch. There are many creative ideas.
DeleteFor Pippa some idea with oak leaves and acorns would be interesting.
Where did the article come from about Michael Middleton's family. Favor with royalty comes and goes, and can appear to be very fickle. Just because 1 person in the family may have been linked to royalty in the past doesn't mean the current generation is.
DeleteI'm sure there are a lot of people in Britian that have ancestory with royalty that they aren't even aware of. It's a small country.
21:48,
DeleteThey are linked through way more than one person as has been discussed here more than once.
Julia,
DeleteDon't you agree that designing a family tiara for Pippa's wedding might be a good idea?
They, from now on, will be at numerous Royal events most likely like coronations, etc. Actually they need three. One for Carole, one for Pippa and one for her bother's future wife.
I would like for William to design a tiara for Kate also, although that might be the only one she would wear from then on and she does have Diana's so that probably settles it for William.
Thanks, Julia.
Delete21:48,
DeleteYou want a thorough, good, and easy historical read? Want to know more about Kate? Pippa?
Just google "The Lupton Family". It is a very rich treasure of information.
That will easily explain the reference made by 23:26.
Ohhh, I cannot imagine Pippa wearing a tiara, or the Middleton's designing one for her! Yikes. I have a theory on tiaras...they must be the REAL deal, as in royal, or the children's party version! The in-betweens are tacky. Sorry.
DeleteIf I were Pippa I think I'd keep it secretive and intimate. I would want my sister and niece and nephew to be part of my special day. But, with them comes intense media and would change the whole tone. What a feat that would be though! Probably nearly impossible.
ReplyDeleteI had those exact thoughts, florida girl. I've predicted a small, private wedding, outside London. The "next year" may be meant to throw off the press. Pictures to
Deletefollow, instead of a big photo-op. The media seems to be sucking up to the Middletons now,especially with wide-spread documentation of the Middleton family aristocratic heritage and service to queen (and king) and country. Memories of
years of published rumors and ridiculous stories are hard to forgive, however.. Why give the tabs
a scoop now? Didn't the social media gossip about an engagement sort of
puncture the tabs' scoop?
I agree, Florida girl.
DeleteI hope it is secretive and intimate. Better in every way that way, IMO. I know where I would want the wedding to be.
She can't outdo Kate's wedding and any attempt at anything other than a low key intimate wedding will undoubtedly be viewed as an attempt by Pippa to try to outdo her sister. Certainly not her goal I am sure, but the media would most likely play it up that way.
It would be nice if maybe they had it at Amner Hall. The perimeters are already secured and, being that it is Amner Hall, and on the Queen's estate, that would automatically add a very distinct savoir fare to the wedding and many personal family memories.
The wedding on "home turf". To me, that is the perfect venue for the wedding for so many reasons.
Pippa, please have your wedding at Amner Hall. :)
Pippa has never been shy for attention - she has actually courted a lot of attention openly from the press - and she doesn't seem like the quiet wedding type.
DeleteI don't think it will be small and secretive - not with the coy way she was acting about the ring - she was loving the speculation (and if you can't be coy when you're newly engaged, not sure when you can be) I think it will be moderate sized and very tasteful - worth remembering a lot of the secretive privacy part comes from William - the Middleton siblings are often out and about.
The Middletons are a nice middle class family with some history - that is not uncommon. They are by no means aristocrats and have never pretended to be. I don't think either media or public attitude has changed much - they are the family of a royal in-law - and families of royal in-laws, whether aristocratic or not - are expected to be low-key and discreet - a tightrope the Middletons have walked with varying success.
The wedding being at Anmer Hall would be a security nightmare. Imagine all those guests so close and/or inside the home of two future Kings. Security would have to be increased quite a bit for the Cambridges at taxpayer cost. And those security concerns would force Pippa and James to be even more selective about the guest list than they already would have to be just because of the Cambridges' attendance. I also imagine the Cambridges would not want to risk leaks from any number of guests about the inside of Amner Hall.
DeleteMaggie,
DeletePippa and Wiiliam/Kate run in the same circles, the inner circles. They are all very closely knit. I don't think it is that much different for Etonian James Matthews either. It wouldn't be as you are postulating. The tents, away from the house, would alleviate a lot of security issues with people not being entertained in the actual house.
Security of the perimeters is already in place and active for sure and has been from the git go. More than just there usual PPO's. They are going to need extra security anyway if George participates in the wedding and William and Kate attend also. The chapel is there. They had Charlotte's christening in a secure manner. They can easily do so for a family wedding. Next to the royal wedding, this is the next best thing Kate can offer her sister for all the reasons I have previously listed.
Maggie,
DeleteThe guests of the wedding are all going to be W/K's inner circle anyway and that no doubt applies to Etonian James Matthews friends also.
The tents, away from the house, would keep guests from meandering in and out of the house.
Perimeter security is in place already (whether we hear about it or not), and regardless of where they have the wedding, additional security will be needed because of the
Cambridges. I think the Middleton's would gladly chip in for additional security to have a "homey" wedding for Pippa. And I think William and Kate would love to host the wedding there.
It's not so much security as it is tradition. The banns are generally read where a bride resides or these days where her family resides or where she or the groom have a have a close connection (such as a childhood church where no family remains.) Having a sister live some place isn't that kind of connection. If course, given William's position, all sorts of exceptions could be made - but I doubt the Middletons would do that - it would seem to be presuming a lot - and also would be something of an insult to the church at Bucklebury - which is said to be very nice indeed.
DeleteLondon would be quite acceptable as Pippa and the groom reside there - not sure what parish - or the groom's family home - or a destination wedding. It could be a civil service of course, at an approved location, but I think that's very unlikely.
I don't think security will be much of an issue - Bucklebury has always been a secure and discreet area - although if they put in a temporary "no fly" zone - it wouldn't surprise me. Don't want the press flying over in helicopters. I doubt they will sell the photo rights to Hello! after the fuss over Peter Philips doing so, but I wish they would.
I don't think William and Kate would have a problem with George being a page. The most the public might see are some photos outside the church - and even that would be only if the bride and groom want it.
Oh yeah iys true.. i visited british royals twitter account after reading your post... its confirmed.. congrats to the couple and to their families. And to our lovely sister of the bride, kate
ReplyDeletefaiza, Pakistan
"...a nice middle class family..." If the Middletons are an example of how the middle class live in England, book my flight now. I'm coming over. :-)
DeleteAt any rate, Pippa most certainly will not be considered middle class after her
marriage. That might be at the root of some of the sour grapes comments.
It's certainly not sour grapes - but it is worth understanding in Britain money and status still don't march hand in hand - there are many aristocrats less wealthy than the Middletons - there are dukes who are quite poor, but that isn't the determination. The Middletons are well-off middle class - so is Jamees' family - and there is nothing wrong with that. They are both self-made and both have done very well - very well indeed, in James' family case. But Pippa's marriage doesn't change her status - and some of the comments here sound remarkably pretentious - something the Middletons have been fairly careful not to be.
DeleteSaying one must be titled to be a member of the British upper class is pretentious and just not reflective of today's social set-up. Many, if not most of W&C's friends are wealthy but untitled members of the upper class.Would one say the Bransons are middleclass? Perhaps in days (long) gone by titles were entre to the upper class. We no longer live in Edwardian times The Matthews and Middletons may not be aristocrats at this point, but they most certainly are now upper class. It is rather snobbish and elitist and reactionary (since we seem to be name-calling here) to say
Deleteone can never rise above the level of one's beginnings. Once a coal miner, always
a coal-miner (stewardess) etc.
Ha ha that reminded me of something Prince Charles said years ago in an Australian 60 Minutes? Interview, that 'one should never rise above ones station in life'. After hearing that I went off the royals for a while
DeleteThe Bransons are middle class in background. Yes, birth still matters. If it didn't, there wouldn't be a monarchy - William would just be another bloke. Just a reminder that the equality of all is the principle reason republicans want to get rid of the monarchy. If you think there should be a monarchy (and I do) then you have to accept that birth does matter.
DeleteIn the past there was always a chance to move up if you were wealthy enough and you might gain a title. Today, with very limited exceptions, only life titles are given. The aristocracy, most likely, will gradually die out - the question of female inheritance could also change things - (and could potentially prolong titles which often go extinct for want of a male heir.) But for now, there is a distinction between obtaining wealth - even a lot of it, and status that comes from birth.
None of this has anything to do with how good people are, how worthy they are, how successful they are, how intelligent they are (in fact the aristocracy has always been thought rather dim - but generalisations are never wise.) At the same time, much of the charm of Kate came from her being a nice, ordinary middle-class girl - one who started life in a council house, whose parents worked to become successful and who happened to meet a prince, presumably by chance, at university. Much the same as Sophie, and most of today's European royal in-laws.
Yes it is inherently a bit snobbish - but so frankly is the idea that having wealth, whether the Middletons or the Bransons or whoever, makes one superior. But the kind of rise in status through wealth Anonymous is speaking of is really more an American thing. (And in the past very wealthy American girls often sought aristocratic husband - or their parents did for them.) And flashy wealth is still much looked down upon by many - the queen is the ultimate example of the kind of outwardly low-key way of living that is still admired.
Julia, I'm not sure I would dismiss ALL of the stomping (as in grapes). :))
DeleteCongratulations to Pippa and James. It will be fun to see it all play out. George certainly seems like a candidate for the wedding party. Kate, I am not so sure. She might feel she would be taking the spotlight off the bride. Although she and Pippa appear to be extremely close. Love the pictures of William. He looked adorable. Fun post Charlotte.
ReplyDeleteOh i am so happy for Pippa. I am loving her engagement ring. I like the non-diamond engagement rings. I think that is why i love Kate's engagement ring so much, not just because it is a sapphire and since my birthday month is in September i love sapphires, but because it's not your normal cushion cut diamonds (no offense to anyone who has a cushion cut diamond). It is just a British thing that married women can't be bridesmaids? I know here in the states married women can be the matron of honor.
ReplyDeleteMarried women can be bridesmaids and often are - but it's not traditional in upper class circles. It's up to the bride, but I have a feeling Pippa will mostly stay with the tradition of having children. That also removes the issue of having James' girlfriend as an attendant - although I think her daughter might be a possibility if they are still together.
DeleteTraditionally there was no maid or matron of honour - it was chief bridesmaid, but that term has come into use of late.
The ring is beautiful and suits Pippa very well.
Congratulations to her!
ReplyDeletePippa will make a beautiful bride, congrats!
ReplyDeleteAs to the sisters: my sister and I have a close relationship like they do and other than my son, it is the most unique relationship in my life. An anchor, roots, an understanding that surpasses understanding as well as a support that surpasses understanding.
So to Kim, my sister, MY Pippa, I know you're reading: I love you!
:)
Deleteawhhh, Tammy, that was beyond sweet. :)
Delete@Tammy from California: Love your beautiful description of your sisterhood! Truly blessed you both are!
DeleteI'm so happy for Pippa & James!! May they have the wedding they desire. I've always wondered if Kate ever thinks about the sort of wedding she might have had, had her groom not been the future King of England? ;-)
I am so happy for Pippa. That engagement ring is beyond stunning!!!
ReplyDeleteLike others who have commented in a similar vein, I hope that the family can create a quiet and intimate wedding that does not devolve into a media gong show (like George's birth, for example). They are not royals and can do as they please. If they are out of society's eye, anyone can be a bridesmaid and not upstage anyone. All that stuff about Poppa's rear upstaging Catherine on her day was simply the media's horse fertilizer and attempts to create so-called stories where there were none.
ReplyDeleteThe participants then said that it felt like a family wedding. I hope that Poppa and James can feel the same way about theirs. Congratulations to them.
Love the ring! Though I don't see why comparisons must be made. The joy in one thing does not preclude joy in another different thing.
Exactly, on all points, Philly.
DeleteI agree fully, Pholly!
DeleteI think Amner Hall
ReplyDeletewould be the most awesome place for them to have the wedding whoever suggested that.
Beautiful, prestigious, built-in security, homey, Royal, historical, spacious with plenty of land for tents, etc., overflow rooms at the Queen's house or even Houghton Hall, the neighbors in King's Lynn are supportive and discreet, and they can request restricted air space for the wedding prep and wedding. JUST PERFECT
And there is a chapel on premise. Uber perfect.
DeleteSee above - there is a question of banns. Pippa doesn't live at Amner. Exceptions can be made but it would be a terrible insult to Bucklebury where the people have been wonderfully discreet.
DeleteJulia,
DeleteAI don't think Buckelbury would be offended at all. Having Pippa marry on the Sandringham Estate only benefits them in the long run. That makes their "natives" even more illustrious.
I understand Julia's point. The Bucklebury community was very supportive of W&K during the courtship, and beyond, and a different venue could be seen as "are we not good enough?"
DeleteThat'ts not how it's done. You marry in your parish church (where you or your parents live) with very limited exceptions - if you are royal, or have some other connection - for example - you might marry at a university chapel and people with certain titles can marry at St. Paul's for instance. But if you look at the marriages William and Kate have gone to - that will give you good examples.
DeleteJust to clarify, below are the rules for marrying in the Anglican faith in England.
"You can marry in a Church of England church if you can show that one of you:
has at any time lived in the parish for a period of at least 6 months or
was baptised (christened) in the parish concerned or
was prepared for confirmation in the parish or
has at any time regularly gone to normal church services in the parish church for a period of at least 6 months
or
That one of your parents, at any time after you were born:
has lived in the parish for a period of at least 6 months or
has regularly gone to normal church services in the parish church for a period of at least 6 months"
I didn't copy it but it also includes grandparents - but that's it.
Of course, today many people marry in approved locations in civil ceremonies but I can't imagine Pippa doing that. And the location must be open to the public - along with other restrictions.
But all this is a bit unnecessary because Bucklebury has by all reports (I've never seen it) a wonderful and historic church. It rates a mention in Harris's Guide to Churches and Cathedrals for its wonderful old glass particularly. (I believe Charlotte has written about it too and no doubt will again.)
Pippa did the Race Across America in June, 2014. James Matthews was on that team.
ReplyDeleteThen in August, 2014, the Middeltons were guests of James Matthews and his parent's, owners of Eden Rock Hotel on St. Bart's.
Then, in September, 2014, Pippa, James Matthews, and James Middleton participated in the Otillo
triatholon-type of event.
My guess is that James Matthews was found himself interested in Pippa again during all that but knew that Pippa was otherwise involved with Nico so he was a gentleman about the whole thing until it became clear that the Nico relationship was ending.
Thank You Charlotte for this breaking news! And Congratulations to Pippa and James!!!They make a lovely couple and the ring is beautiful! I love that pic of Pippa in the white dress with the brown bag, stepping out, she looks simply gorgeous in that pic :-)
ReplyDeleteHave you identified those golden earrings Pippa wore today in the morning yet?
ReplyDeleteP.S.: Love your blog, and you are posting so much! Thanks for being so diligent and hardworking!!! :)
So happy for them!
ReplyDeleteI can only imagine how much pressure it must be to have a sister who is married to the royals.
I envy Kate and Pippa’s relationship though; I have always wanted to have a sister. It looks like they are the bestestest friends. I am sure that regardless of their differences they have been very supportive of each other and I admire that. I have seen some women try to outdo their sister(s) in everything because of jealousy and that’s a shame.
I wish Pippa and James all the happiness! She looks so joyful.
Btw I have noticed a lot of people criticize the way Pippa dresses, but I think all the Middletons look so effortlessly chic.
My guess is a very traditional church (most unsure about the latter) wedding for Pippa and James, and that it will be big. I'm shocked so many think Pippa would want it to be kept private and hidden away - the Middletons don't really shy away from the spotlight. Pippa and James both give interviews, Pippa wrote a book that she knew only would sell because of her relationship to Kate, etc. When Kate was in the hospital sick with HG, they could have snuck in for a visit, but did it in front of the photographers instead. That's all totally fine - my point is just that to me, it all indicates Pippa herself would be fine with photographers at the wedding - after all, in many ways, its the ultimate sign of status.
ReplyDeleteMy guess is any limits placed will be to protect the Cambridges, but I do hope Pippa gets her dream wedding and isn't stymied in her plans because of her sister's status. The Cambridges will be best served if they are just pragmatic about the inevitable media attention on this event. Pictures of Kate wouldn't really take the attention away from Pippa - Pippa obviously gets plenty of attention on her own and they don't seem competitive like that anyways. Pictures of George and Charlotte might distract from the actual wedding, but I highly doubt Pippa will begrudge her adorable niece and nephew that attention anyways. Not to mention having a future King serve as a pageboy and for there to be pictures of that would just further cement Pippa's status in that upper class world. I wouldn't be shocked, however, if the Cambridges set up a way to sneak the children in and out of the church because the media hoopla might just scare them, which is a completely fair concern. I do hope the Cambridges don't try to sneak away themselves when entering and exiting because honestly, I think that would distract from Pippa more because everyone would be caught up trying to figure out where the Cambridges are to get pictures of them.
Perhaps what would be best is if, kind of like the senior royals at Charlotte's christening, before the wedding started, the Cambridges arrived separately and did a quick photo opp with the press outside the venue, so that it would just be over and done with. After that, everyone else can arrive to the wedding as they would normally, with pictures taken outside by the media as usual. And now that I think about it, I guess it would make sense for Pippa and James to have the ceremony somewhere where they can have the reception too, i.e. perhaps a larger building with a chapel and a reception area or something. That way, after the entrance pictures, everyone can relax and "let their hair down" to celebrate the occasion without having to worry about more media pictures. But maybe after the ceremony, just PIppa and James come out for a quick photo opp before going back in for the reception. Having it all be in an enclosed venue also helps deal with security worries.
There's obviously going to be concerns about the guest list in terms of who will be around the Cambridges - I wouldn't be entirely surprised if William left before the real partying began. Having it just be Kate makes it less like iffy people are interacting with the royals, similar, I imagine, to why William didn't attend her cousin's wedding at that one hotel. But I also don't think it would be a huge deal if William stayed and did party with a large wedding's guest list - he does this all the time anyways, and it seems like the Middletons really only socialize with the upper crust that William trusts anyways.
Really it seems like you are auditioning for the job of Royal Protocol Officer, or Special Events Co-ordinator. Buckingham Palace and the Royal Family have had centuries dealing with this sort of thing. I have every faith they will work it out, without people making suggestions of how they need to run the show.
DeleteI doubt that either William or Kate would leave the reception early. And indoubtbif William would party alone at Pippa's wedding. Some of your comments in my opinion are off base.
DeleteAgree with you on quite a number of points - no one outshines a bride in her glorious white in my opinion - and Pippa will make a lovely one.
DeleteI don't think William will have any issues with anyone the Middletons might invite - I believe, the reason he skipped that one wedding was because there were serious political issues and a boycott about the hotel. It was controversial enough for Kate to go. And he never seems to mind a party. Kate has missed more weddings, but one thing is certain - she won't be missing this one.
0648: This blog is full of comments from people "making suggestions of how they need to run the show". Some think it should be at St. Barts, some Anmer, some a quiet village church.
DeleteFYI, the royal family will not be planning this wedding as no members of the royal family are marrying. The Middletons and Matthews will be planning the wedding with perhaps royal input depending on who is invited. If you're going to complain about comments at least get your complaints right.
lol, Bluhare,
DeleteNow, we add Scotland to the mix. Not that far fetched at all. Quite a beautiful and idyllic castle like house and 10,000 acres. Only caveat?
It is close to the Loch Ness.
I was the Anonymous commentator at 06.48. Yes, of course the Royal Family will not be planning this wedding and yes, of course, no members of the Royal Family are getting married. However, because two future kings will be present, there will be protocol and security measures in place, that would not be needed if no royalty were present. The points I was making were because Maggie in Minneapolis was saying that Charlotte and George might be sneaked into and out of the church. She also wondered who would sit near the Cambridge's, when WIlliam would leave etc. My point was, that Buckingham Palace and the Royal Family had been sorting out this type of logistics for centuries and it was not necessary for any of us to have suggestions. I felt it was presumptuous for anyone to try to orchestrate this.
DeleteKate's SISTER is getting married. I think it will be a "family first" occasion and I do NOT see W&K sneaking in or out of anything.
DeleteThis must be one of the very few occasions when an article in the DM is not pure speculative journalism, however bearing in mind the article will have been written late yesterday evening I wonder who gave Richard Kay the very detailed & accurate story. Due to this article I felt that Pippa was maybe forced to confirm the happy event with her statement later today maybe somewhat earlier than planned. Just my thoughts due to the sequence of events.
ReplyDeleteHowever congratulations to Pippa & James I am sure it will be a lively & joyous gathering for George's birthday on Friday & possibly Saturday although W & K have an engagement in Portsmouth on Sunday. I wonder if Pippa's fiancee will be present for the birthday party?
Carol will now have a wedding to be involved with so I hope she will not spend so much time with Kate & family that we are led to believe she does & allow W & k to run their own family. Much as I admire Carole's work ethic she comes across as a very controlling woman not prepared to let go.
Mary E,
DeleteI don't get that impression about Carole at all. I think she was a very necessary support for Kate during the courtship years, when George was born and since then I think she has not needed to be there as much. Times when people have speculated that Carole was "hovering" over Kate for a certain event, confirmed reports of Michael and Carole out to dinner in Newark or Bucklebury have surfaced. Kate might need a little extra TLC at times due to the special situation she is in, but I do think Carole is overbearing at all. That's media circus rumor and filling pages.
If Carole was as controlling as you suggest, I doubt that William would have embraced the family to the extent that he has. He doesn't strike me as the type to put up with that. No man with a real set would. :-)
DeleteMary E - Perhaps you don't realize it, but I think the notions circulating in the media about Carole Middleton controlling W&K are just to sell papers. There really is no hard evidence to support those beliefs. William would not tolerate anything that was uncomfortable. It strikes me that there is a normal family relationship. When she was ailing, Catherine went to her parents. With very little help from staff, Carole was invited to help out with the children. My grandparents visited nearly every weekend and all of us looked forward to it. If Carole takes George on an outing or babysits when W&K are away, it is stabilizing for the children. I believe that Carole and Catherine are aligned in their outlook and her presence is no intrusion. They enjoy and support each other. It's a big assumption to state that W&K do not run their own family and that Carole can't let go.
DeleteI think the royal family owes Carole and her husband a big thank you. If Diana (and Charles for that matter) had had the kind of level headed support they have provided the Cambridge Family the past five years I don't think it a stretch to say royal history would have been very different. From everything I read Diana's mother all but fled the scene after the wedding occurred, and Diana felt her job was to make her dad proud. I think its great that the Cambridges felt comfortable enough to adjust to parenthood after George was born in the Middleton's home. It speaks volume to the absolute core of trust and honesty they have between the four of them. That support system will prove vital (as I am sure it already has) through some very trying days that none of us will likely ever know about - thanks to their discretion.
DeleteI very much agree, 1347.
DeleteAriagurl, I agree. That's why I think the Queen should acknowledge that and give them a peerage.
DeleteAriagurl, A-M-E-N to that!
Delete23:21, do I think they deserve it? YES! Do I think the Queen should give them a peerage? No. I say this because of the petty criticism it would generate.
DeleteIMO, William choosing Kate to be his wife and future Queen, William's apparent love for the Middleton's, and the unprecedented inclusion of the family on various occasions speaks volumes.
If HM thinks back to her "annus horribilis", I doubt she could have imagined the ROYAL GEM William would present to the Firm when he asked for Kate's hand in marriage. William's life represents the good karma that Diana was denied.
Diana's mother did not "all but fled the scene after the wedding occurred". She had four children and was married to Spencer from 1954 to 1969. Diana was born in 1961 and Charles in 1964. The rumors are that Earl Spencer was abusive to her, and the story is that his father was also abusive to his wife. I don't think either have been confirmed, but I've read both in biographies about Diana. Frances lost custody because the deck was stacked against her due to who Earl Spencer was and her mother testified against her. She was only able to see her children in the summer I think. She did not just run away. She fought for them and lost. I'm not saying she was an angel; she was accused of adultery and I don't know a lot about her, but to say she ran off and abandoned her children isn't true either.
DeletePippa has been dressing SO much better in the past year or so.
ReplyDeleteSome time ago a writer for the Daily Mail did a huge critique of Pippa never getting her clothes choices right and in that article going outfit by outfit by outfit by outfit to make her points. Her points were correct but she was not very nice in the way she put them forth. She certainly wasn't the only media person to criticize Pippa's wardrobe either. Good news is, Pippa doesn't dress anything like that anymore. Maybe she read the article or articles. Maybe she has more of her own monies by now to get the clothes she wants. Who knows, maybe the bizarre sartorial choices she was making were indicative of the adjustment to the chaos of sudden fame and social position in her life. Now more sophisticated and tamer clothing choices seem to indicate a calmer and more self-assured Pippa who has weathered the storm and is now finding her way much better.
Congratulations for Pippa and her fiancée. Best Wishes.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the post Charlotte! My vote is for a destination wedding at Eden Roc. In Jan-Feb. Private, glorious weather so they can do the sports they all love. And with equally wealthy friends no issue of people being able to afford to come.
ReplyDeleteI would love to see Charlotte and George in the wedding party but since Prince William and Kate are so super protective of their privacy do you really think they would allow them to be involved in the wedding?
ReplyDeleteI'm sure they would allow it. The Middleton siblings are all very close, and PG and PC are Pippa's only nephew and neice. I think it is a guarantee that PG would be involved. PC is probably just too young however.
DeleteOf course, George and Charlotte can take part, although Charlotte might be a tad young. If Will and Kate can take George to an air show with many photographers and onlookers, they can most certainly take him to a wedding.
DeleteA wedding requires sitting still and being quiet. No climbing around on pews or running up and down the aisles. Definitely not required at the air show.
DeleteHello,
ReplyDeleteThe post has been updated with more info on the ring. It's actually believed to be by Robinson Pelham, the jeweller who created Kate's wedding earrings.
Charlotte, that makes perfect sense! A very nice and traditional touch.
DeletePerhaps Pippa will wear her sister's earrings...OR...Mike and Carole will have a pair designed just for her.
Pippa has her own diamond earrings from the Royal wedding.
DeletePerhaps Carole was the intermediary there working with James to some extent in designing a bespoke
ReplyDeletepiece perhaps?
Or, James Matthews reads this blog regularly and so of course knows that Robinson Pelham is the Middleton's Jeweler of choice.
ReplyDeleteTHAT, has to be it.
DeleteThe ring is not my style, do not care for it as an engagement ring at all. But to each her own. I find it amusing that the gentlemen is described as her longtime boyfriend when they've been back together less than a year after a three year split while she canoodled with Nico. Wish them joy, even though "hedge fund manager" is synonymous with "Servant of Satan" in my view. We all have to make a living somehow, I suppose. Looking forward to what Kate will wear.
ReplyDeleteMy two cents ... I cannot see the wedding taking place at Anmer Hall, and for several reasons...
ReplyDelete-this should be Pippa's day, and not the W&K show
-imagine the cries over the cost and who's paying for this and that
-the chapel is small
-the Middleton's would be accused of milking their royal connections
-W&K (and the Middleton's) wouldn't impose the inevitable press circus on the local community
-Mike and Carole deserve the opportunity to play a more significant role in the planning of one of their daughter's weddings. (Why wouldn't it take place in Bucklebury where they live and are members of the community?)
IF they don't choose to get married at the Eden Rock Hotel (for the sake of privacy), then I suspect they will have it in Bucklebury followed by a more modest reception, before heading to the Eden Rock to have a real party! And as Valerie pointed out, the guests on both sides will be able to afford it.
royalfan agree. The idea of a Bucklebury wedding and either a pre or post hosting of a party by the grooms family is probably the most likely. James family could do Eden Rock or host it in the UK.
DeleteDon't forget the issue of banns as well - and the church's marriage requirements. I do think your idea sounds like a splendid one - a wedding at home followed by a lively party abroad at the resort - and fits with how things are done these days with an evening or after party - mainly for the young to party and dance.
DeleteI would never assume all guests can afford to travel - Kate was very thoughtful about inviting local people without that kind of resources to her wedding and I don't know why Pippa wouldn't do the same.
RF, I don't think it would be that complicated at all.
DeleteIs James Matthews C of E?
DeleteWhy not Scotland? So many pretty Kirks. Matthews has family there and I believe the couple has vacationed there several times.
DeleteJames seems to barely tolerate the paps. I think a huge society wedding
with the attendant crowds and publicity might do him in.
W&C invited a number of Bucklebury friends and neighbors who weren't affluent. I wouldn't call the trip from Bucklebury to London a prohibitive trip. Not sure what that statement was actually meant to say.
20:33,
DeleteJames Matthews has had a taste of paparazzi because his brother is somewhat of a celebrity they say and he has already been around Pippa and James Middleton, after completing sporting events, etc. and so he already seems to have adjusted to the papparazi.
20:33,
DeleteThe Daily Mail has photos of the house in Scotland and some of the property.
It would be best to introduce their own home ( the Middleton's) to guests as they say farewell to the last daughter of their family. It will not make sense to mix up either one daughter's destiny with another and have it at Anmer Hall (may be an extended or private version party at Anmer Hall to include senior royal in laws. Part of their honeymoon or some part of the wedding at the groom's property. Pippa, the party planner will figure out, and am curious about how she will plan her wedding.
DeleteJulia, I do think this would give them the best of both ... a traditional wedding ceremony followed by an amazing, contemporary reception. And I agree that perhaps not everyone would be able to afford the "destination party", but I suspect that those who are near and dear wouldn't have to save up for it. :)
Delete19:43, stay tuned...you may change your mind. Do you recall the fuss over Kate taking a helicopter back to Anmer Hall after an engagement? Shock, horror. ;)
23:18, I think James takes it in his stride, similar to Pippa's approach. Nico, on the other hand, appeared to enjoy it. *IMO!*
Scotland is a possibility - it doesn't have the same marriage rules as England and James's father has property there - with the title of laird I believe, purchased with it. But I think it's rather unlikely - although who knows - it might be a wonderful setting.
DeleteThanks Charlotte. I have a feeling that the ring was custom designed.
ReplyDeleteI think Pippa will find the thought of getting married at
ReplyDeleteEden Rock very cliche'. And I don't think the Middletons will be for the idea either. I think they are country church people.
hmm congratulation to pippa middleton to his fiancé I agree that pippa should get her wedding what she wants every bride deserve the best but I guess these sure thing now that she planning her wedding there will be secure the venue and date guess list im sure the duchess of Cambridge will be there a long with prince William and prince George and her sister princess charlotte I think its January to febuary in eden or mystique would be good
ReplyDeleteSo happy for Pippa and \James. Congratulations
ReplyDeletePippa and James Matthews have known each other for years. The media said in January that Pippa had moved in with him after knowing him for only two months. Definitely not true. Not even close. They didn't do their homework.
ReplyDeleteAmen, 04:47, Amen
DeleteTo be fair to tabloid writers, (although they are often not fair to their subjects) I imagine their editors and deadline pressure don't leave much time for thorough research. Plus,sometimes a made up story sells better than the truth.
DeleteI think all this speculation about what Pippa should do and how they could/should accommodate Kate is quite funny. Personally, I suspect James Matthews and his family might have something to say about what kind of wedding it is and where. William's family certainly did. Lol.
ReplyDeleteThat was exceptional because of Royal protocol.
DeleteRobinson Pelham designed a pair of earrings similar to Kate's for Pippa to wear to the Royal wedding,
ReplyDeleteDiamond tie tacs for Michael and James, and the aquamarine set that Carole wore to the wedding reception.
Hopefully, Pippa will re-wear those earrings for her own wedding. And Michael and Carole say Amen to that. lol
Pippa might borrow them but they might give her a pair of her own as well - perhaps with a little different design - then they could be passed down to respective children.
DeleteWait a minute,
DeleteMichael and Carole not only made Kate's earrings for the Royal wedding but they made a similar pair for Pippa then ALSO. Anyone remember those?
Pippa's have a flower design at the top to echo the flowers she had in her hair that day, like Kate's echoed the design in the tiara she wore, and instead of suspended acorns, Pippa has two pear shaped solitaires suspended in hers.
If Pippa doesn't want to wear those for her own wedding, maybe they can reconfigure those diamonds into a new pair of earrings for her wedding. Robinson Pelham would love to do it, no doubt.
They should just design a nice tiara for her while they are at it because they might need a family tiara for Royal events in the future. Seriously.
I would love for the Queen to give Michael and Carole a peerage title. Seriously. Their ancestors have served the Royal family nicely in the past and now with them mentoring and being there for William in his young adulthood, I think it would be a nice tribute to all of that. Then it would be whatever titles Michael and Carole get so that Pippa would be Lady and James, Lord? What titles would Michael and Carole get? Michael might not like the title but he would sure like the receiving of that from Her Majesty herself. He would be all smiles and giddy. He's so cool.
Then Charlotte can wear that tiara when she marries. lol
Julia, if you read anon 05:36 comment, she already has a pair of her own.
DeleteJulia,
DeletePippa has her own earrings from the wedding.
Diamond earrings. Bespoke. Designed to match Pippa's headpiece. From Robinson Pelham. Very similar to Kate's. Also $20,000 to $25,000.
Sounds like those would be perfect to wear then. I don't see a tiara being designed though.
DeleteI wouldn't say less than a year together is a 'long time'.
ReplyDeleteElyse,
DeleteI have researched that and they have been together since 2014 and earlier believe it or not. A lot of the events/photos that you see James Middleton and Pippa at/in, James Matthews was not far off. And, Pippa was photographed going into Mr. Matthews home on 9/30/15 and leaving, with roses, on 10/1/15. (They had been with each other A LOT prior to that but I do not believe overnight.) She broke up with Nico, who was in Geneva, on 10/10/15. I will hopefully be posting a quick chronology of their times together later, if anyone is interested. I did extensive research because I was perplexed by all the incomplete and sketchy reporting. Now I have it sorted out. James Matthews made sure he was rarely far from Pippa for years prior to this. With all propriety, but still near. I think her brother was gladly in on it or else Pippa started out using James as a buffer because she was involved with Nico. But James has been around Pippa for quite awhile.
Hah, I agree. But they have known eachother and been close friends for ages and dated back in 2012, so they are well known to eachother even thought they might not have been a couple for very long.
Delete18:16, yes, interested in your research...meant sincerely. :)
DeleteWhat a happy time for both families. Pippa looks very happy and almost bride like in that lace white dress. I'm very happy for her and James and wish them many years of happiness in the future.
ReplyDeleteWouldn't it be wonderful if Kate 'loaned' her wedding earrings to Pippa as the something borrowed?
Whatever they choose I hope it makes them happy and it is truly their choice and are not forced into a decision about the wedding that is truly not theirs.
Charlotte - I hope you are not planning a long delay for the Kate Loves post. I was really looking forward to it!
Julie,
DeletePippa has her own bespoke diamond earrings she wore as bridesmaid at the Royal wedding, a $20,000 to $25,000 pair also from Robinson Pelham.
Pippa's bespoke Royal wedding earrings from
DeleteRobinson Pelham were about €15,000, a guesstimate only. What is that in dollars?
Pippa's outfit in the Daily Mail today is one of her cutest, IMO.
ReplyDeleteThe sundress is beautiful with double sphaghetti straps (so sweet), the print is very pretty (not bold and garish or all over the place), the skirt has just the right amount of fabric to be perfectly flowy and flirty. Her purse in proportionate to her heighth and body size. The color is a perfect neutral, and the shoulder strap makes for a more at ease pose and taller more slender silhouette. The shoes are proportionate, a nice style and neutral and harmonize with the purse, dress, hair color and skin tone. Her hair is tapered nicely. The sunglasses are delicate, like the dress and go with everything perfectly. Even her neutral nail polish is perfect. yay, Pippa
Anon 17:38, could you post the link to the photo please?
DeletePaola,
Delete"Pippa flashes HUGE engagement ring", Victoria Murphy, The Mirror, July 20, 2016. Scroll down to get the full view photo. The Daily Mail had a lot of photos of the outfit on that day also. Let me know what you think. :)
My oh my, I even like the running outfit Pippa wore today. Did she recently take good style 101 or get a stylist? Something has changed in her sartorial choices in the past months. Her clothes match her lovely new home. Her new choices enhance her beauty.
ReplyDeleteLovely ring. I am looking forward to the event. The Middletons have always dressed perfectly for the wedding and christenings. Looking forward to seeing photos of the wedding but hoping the press will leave them alone. Loved the photo of the guests at Andrew and Sarah's wedding. I remember seeing the film of the Queen chasing to catch William as he ran after the carriage!
ReplyDeleteSoon, George will have some more cousins to play with. lol
ReplyDeleteAt 40, I think James will want to start a family within a year or sooner.
The media is comparing the cost of Kate's ring with the cost of Pippa's ring, Kate's watch with Pippa's watch. Hopefully the comparisons will stop there.
ReplyDeleteWouldn't that be wonderful?! But if I know the press right, this is only the beginning...
DeleteNot sure if anyone has seen this (or if it's what she will where for her speech tonight) but the dress Ivanka Trump is wearing onstage today (during her walk thru with her father) looks very much like the same dress that Kate wore to Wimbledon! Has anyone seen it? Curious if it's the same dress?
ReplyDeleteNo, haven't seen it yet. But she certainly copied Michelle's speech.
DeleteI thought so too, Becca! :) It may be one of Ivanka's designs...
Delete23:10, Becca was referring to IVANKA, not Melania. :)
DeleteIsn't that Trump's wife who was supposed to have copied the speech - I thought Ivanka was his daughter - talk about a lovely bride. I saw photos in Hello! if I have this correct. (But Trump's own wedding to this present wife was terribly flashy as I recall.)
DeleteAlso, just as we were able to chat within our Global Group here as Global Events have Occured.... I'm so curious how we look to the rest of the world, during this wild & crazy 2016 Presidential Election Cycle?
ReplyDeleteFrom Italy, we are glad we can laugh now for Trump as all the world laughed for Berlusconi :)
Delete(not allowed to mention Trump in my family's household) lol
DeleteThe provenance of Kate's ring makes it priceless.
ReplyDeleteComparing Pippa's ring to Kate's is nonsensical.
Pippa's new €14,500 watch would not go with Kate's ring. Kate's watch does.
In most of the Jeweler's commentaries I have read, they assess Kate's ring on the standard rate of increased value for the sapphire, diamonds, platinum per se. They did not factor in provenance. That, is a complete game changer.
Agreed!! Apples and turnips, in this case. ;)
DeleteRebecca @ 19:11,
ReplyDeletePippa dated James Matthews in 2012. She also dated Tom Kingston at about the same time. James took her to Hakkasan, Queen's Club and Lou Lou's. Tom took her to Lou Lou's. Then at some point, it isn't really clear, she met and started dating Nico. Some say they met while skiing, some say they met at a popular club opening. Some say they started dating in the latter part of 2012, some say in 2013. Here, is part of the rest of the story.
June 2014, Pippa and James Matthews and team
bike across America.
July 2014, Nico moves to Switzerland.
Sept. 2014, James Matthews is photographed with
Pippa and Autumn at Invictus games.
May 9, 2015, Pippa and James Matthews
photographed together in Soho.
Pippa put her arm up so she couldn't
photographed anymore then and she
and James immediately split up and
walked away in separate directions.
Aug. 2015, Pippa and family are guests of James
Matthews at Eden Rock.
Sept. 2015, Pippa and James Matthews and team
do Otillo event, Sweden.
Sept. 30, 2015, Pippa at James Matthews in Chelsea
at his house, walking his dog.
Oct. 1, 2015, Pippa photographed leaving James
Matthew's house in a.m. carrying roses.
Oct. 10, 2015, Pippa breaks up with Nico.
Dec. 2015, Pippa, family, Donna Airs and James
Matthews rent villa in Gustavia St. Bart's.
Jan. 2016, Pippa moves in with James Matthews.
(She moved some of her stuff from her
apartment in Chelsea and home in
Buckleberry in in April, 2016.)
Jan. 2016, James Matthews put in request for bigger
wardrobe (lol) and his and her sinks in the
master bedroom. Those are now
completed.
And then, of course, they were out and about as a couple a lot 2016. On July 17, 2016, they became engaged.
I haven't fully researched 2013 and the first half of 2014 yet, but James Matthews, either as a friend of James Middleton or not, has known and been around Pippa and her family A LOT more than two months.
Don't reporters ever do their homework? lol
The Daily Mail has photos of the Scottish home and property.
DeleteAccording to the Daily Mail and Hello magazine, Pippa will one day inherit the title of "Lady Glan Afric" and the accompanying 10,000 acre estate in Scotland through her future husband's family.
ReplyDeleteOne of the papers wished Kate best wishes in working with her "threenager".
ReplyDeleteAlso,
ReplyDeleteMar. 2013, Pippa, Nico, James Middleton and James
Matthews participate in cross country
ski marathon in St. Moritz, with Carole
and Michael cheering them on at the
finishing line. Nico was there as Pippa's
date. Apparently James and Matthews
were/are buddies.
Feb. 2015, Pippa shows up with Nico to the British
Roll Out The Red Ball Heart Foundation
fundraiser. Nico hadn't been seen with
Pippa for awhile, not even at Carole's
60th birthday party in the Caribean. Guess
who also showed up in the photos of Pippa
and Nico at the ball? Again, James
Matthews. (So,I won't be surprised to find
James Matthews was there at Carole's
birthday party as Jame's friend or as just
a Caribean neighbor.)
I just started researching 2013 and the first half of 2014 and found these photos in the first articles I encountered. I was astonished. The papers said Carole just met James in 2016. That is so not true.