The traditions, the fashion, the guests . . . The Royal Wedding!
From the moment their wedding was announced to the world, there has been so much speculation on what will they do.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia (CC BY 3.0)
Where to start?
The Royal Wedding
The Dress (#1)
I’m sure a lot of folks were expecting to see more bling and more skin. But her custom Givenchy gown, designed by Clare Waight Keller. It was the perfect example of “less is more,” the embodiment of “Simple, and Elegant,” and quite modern in it’s minimalistness. (Is that a word?)
While some naysayers felt the dress was boring or plain – it was the perfect backdrop to allow the detail of her veil to stand out! Measuring 16.5 feet long, the hand embroidered veil featured the flora and fauna of the 53 countries of the Commonwealth nations, as well as Wintersweet (which grows on the grounds of Kensington Palace), California Poppy (the state flower of California), and crops of wheat (which symbolize love and charity).
The Dress (#2)
Personally I’m not into the “change out of my wedding dress into another dress.” I mean, why get a dress that you’re only going to be wearing for such a short time of your entire wedding day? That said – Her Stella McCartney halter dress was stunning, made of white silk, with a high neckline.
The Make-Up
Did her make-up look any different on her wedding day than on any other day? (Or at least in the photos of other days when us regular folks see her on tv or in magazines).
No, not really.
But, this is something I think all brides can take a cue from. On your wedding day don’t try a different make-up look. This is not the time to experiment with a new lip shade or eye shadow color. Especially on your wedding day, you want to look like you.
Meghan looked like Meghan. With a subtle touch of peach on her cheeks, and a light pink lip, she looked fresh and beautiful. Not to mention, the subtleness of her make-up was the perfect look to go with her understated dress and bouquet.
The Bouquet
While diminutive in size, her bouquet was packed full of symbolism and meaning, with a lot of hidden messages.
She had forget-me-nots (which was one of Princess Diana’s favorite flowers), lily of the valley (which symbolize love), astilbe (signifies dedication), sweet peas (delicate or blissful pleasure), jasmine (symbolizing love and, in some cultures, appreciation and good luck), and (following the royal tradition) sprigs of myrtle.
Prince Harry even handpicked several flowers from their private garden at Kensington Palace which were included in her bouquet. How romantic!
The design of her bouquet (as well as the breathtaking florals in St. George’s Chapel) had a very natural look with a lot of greenery – which is very on trend these days.
Bishop Michael Curry’s Sermon
Charismatic. Powerful. Rousing. Uplifting.
These are just some of the words I’ve seen describing Bishop Michael Curry’s sermon at the royal wedding. There’s no doubt that his words captivated the world. Even those only half paying attention when be first spoke, were all ears until his conclusion.
His words were indeed powerful – the perfect message for a wedding ceremony, as well as for life. Everyday life. Of everyday people. Why? Because as he said, “there’s power in love.” Not just in experiencing love, but in merely hearing about it and thinking about it.
“We were made by a power of love, and our lives were meant – and are meant – to be lived in that love. That’s why we are here.”
Who of us didn’t feel it? Who wouldn’t want to?
The Music
To say that the music played at the Royal Wedding was amazing is an understatement.
The Choir of St George’s Chapel, made up of 23 boy choristers from St George’s School and twelve Lay Clerks (adult singers) singing alto, tenor and bass, sang traditional hymns and choral works.
The Kingdom Choir, a gospel group led by conductor Karen Gibson, performed a breathtaking rendition of “Stand By Me” by Ben E. King right before Meghan and Harry said their wedding vows.
But the stand out performances (in my opinion) were by cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason. OMG what a talent! And at 19 years of age. He played not one, but 3 selections – Maria Theresia von Paradis’ “Sicilienne,” Gabriel Fauré’s “Après un rêve,”and Franz Schubert’s “Ave Maria.”
Apparently Meghan Markle personally called and asked him if he’d perform at their wedding.
So moving!
What were your thoughts of the Royal Wedding? What part (or parts) did you like the best? Comment below, I’d love to hear from you!
Hearts, Joy, Love!
Jean
Looking for fun ideas, or need help with your wedding plans? Contact me today at [email protected] or by phone or text at 937-581-3647!
