Wedding Frog

Kate Middleton's Top 10 Toppers

2011-04-23T09:50:00.000-07:00

Feathers, flowers and fur, oh my! Take a look at the princess-to-be's millinery masterpieces

FEATHERED DO

As Kate Middleton prepares to wed PrinceWilliam on April 29, she's already perfected one royal tradition – deftly wearing many hats befitting a princess. Attending the May 6, 2006, wedding of future in-law Camilla Parker Bowles's daughter Laura, she impressed revelers in Wiltshire, England, with her cream-and-brown fascinator.

BEST OF THE FEST

For a casual day out on the green, Middleton capped off her jeans and brown jacket with a matching wide-brimmed hat to attend the Gatcombe Park Festival riding competition near Tetbury, England, in August 2005.

BOW DOWN

To mark her first royal engagement in the Queen's presence, Middleton chose an elegant but understated Philip Treacy topper to celebrate William's graduation from Sandhurst Military Academy on Dec. 15, 2006, in Surrey, England.

SOMETHING BLUE

Another wedding, another whimsical headpiece! Middleton stuck to pastels for the August 2009 nuptials of William's close friend Nicholas van Custem at London's Guards Chapel, topping off her blue-and-ivory ensemble with a coordinated floral hat – one that Kate's mum Carole borrowed nearly a year later to attend Ascot.

JUST FUR THRILLS

From Russia, with love, indeed! The brunette beauty accented her long locks with a Doctor Zhivago-inspired hat in March 2006, during the Cheltenham Festival in Gloucestershire, England.

BLACK TO BASICS

The bride-to-be, who was secretly engaged at the time, showed off her jaunty style for the Oct. 23 nuptials of close friends Harry Meade and Rosie Bradford in Northleach, Gloucestershire.

TUCKED AWAY

While launching a lifeboat in Anglesey, Wales, on Feb. 24, Middleton took her first official royal duty in stride, sporting achocolate brown fascinator made from velvet and pheasant feathers. "She has quite a few of our pieces and luckily she wore one of ours today," designer Maddie O'Mahony of Vivien Sheriff Millinery told PEOPLE. "She looks lovely!"

TIPPING POINT

Black and white, but definitely not boring! Middleton's saucer-shaped hat proved to be a stylish feather in the 29-year-old's cap at William's induction into the Order of the Garter on June 16, 2008, held at St. George's Chapel inside Windsor Castle.

COMING UP ROSES

Setting aside her usual palette of muted tones, Middleton had guests seeing red with her brightly-colored fascinator and matching dress at the wedding of David Jardine-Paterson and Emilia D'Erlanger in Devon, England, on April 17, 2010.

AIM HIGH

Accompanying William to the Jan. 8, 2011, wedding of Harry Aubrey-Fletcher and Sarah Louise Stourton in Aldborough, England, Middleton took her all-black ensemble to new heights with a felt beret from Whiteley Fischer. "[It] looked gorgeous on her," Peter Whiteley, director of the company, told PEOPLE. "She has quite an original style and seems to carry off her hats very well."

From: http://www.people.com/people/package/gallery/0,,20395222_20477559,00.html

Kate Middleton's Royal Wedding Dress: 25 Fantasy Picks

2011-04-23T09:40:00.000-07:00

Kate Middleton's wedding dress is a closely guarded secret – but we picked 25 royally fabulous gowns she could wear on the big day

MARCHESA

Kate Middleton may be nervous for her long-awaited nuptials to Prince William, but the bride-to-be would exude confidence in a statement-making, ultra-romantic gown from red-carpet fave Marchesa.

PHILLIPA LEPLEY

Once the odds-on favorite to design Kate's wedding gown, the British couturier offers a sweeping ballgown with elegant embroidery and a modest sheer neckline. "Our frocks are classic with a beautiful twist, using the most luxurious fabrics and fine embellishments," Lepley tells PEOPLE, but says that she has not been approached to design the dress

VERA WANG

Kate is known for sensible style, making this understatedly elegant Vera Wang gown a perfect pick for the princess-to-be. With its figure-flattering silhouette and subtle detail (ideal for a televised wedding!), it would highlight her curves – and the bare shoulders would allow her hairstyle to shine.

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

This spring the buzz grew loud that Kate chose British design house Alexander McQueen for her big day, though creative director Sarah Burton denied the rumors via a spokesperson. Still, the most recent collection's lavish attention to detail (and icy color scheme) has tongues wagging that Burton has weddings on the brain

CAROLINA HERRERA

Long associated with American royalty, Herrera knows how to dress a modern woman in a strong, yet feminine, way – perfect for the independent princess-to-be. Elaborately ruffled but with a refined shape, this gown would allow her to show off her shoes – and the removable shrug is perfect for transitioning from Westminster Abbey to the reception.

REEM ACRA

With a celebrity-beloved line for weddings and red carpets alike, Lebanese designer Reem Acra is known for her opulent fabrics and whimsical touches. A full-skirted frock would look utterly elegant in a climb from a carriageonce the vows are said.

MONIQUE LHUILLIER

There's a reason so many stars (like Reese!) adore Monique Lhuillier – her gowns combine city-chic designs with ethereal, romantic fabrics and embellishments. Kate could be fashion-forward in this detailed, drop-waisted gown, which will look equally elegant on the dance floor or next to a stunning royalwedding cake

BRUCE OLDFIELD

Another buzzed-about British designer, Bruce Oldfield has been at the forefront of speculation since Kate's mother and sister Pippa were spotted leaving his London shop. Oldfield has sidestepped the rumors ("If I was lucky enough to be asked, I'd be delighted," he has said) but tells PEOPLE he envisions something "traditional and elegant, possibly even demure, but I'm sure she would want a modern twist." This lovely lacy confection has a vintage feel, but the bow at the waist and plunging neckline make it current.

AMSALE

Super-simple but still statement-making, this bow-adorned Amsale combines sleek elegance with the beloved princess silhouette – perfect for a woman who likes putting her own stamp on things. No doubt it would look stunning at the altar when she faces Prince William to say her vows.

MATTHEW WILLIAMSON

One way for Kate to prove she's not your typical bride? Stop the show in a super-modern one-shoulder design from Brit Matthew Williamson, who is making his first foray into bridal. His vision for Kate: "Something quite classic, clean, simple and elegant," he tells PEOPLE. "She will want something timeless and a style that will endure, because that picture will be seen for years to come." He says he's not on the docket for the big day, but still looks "forward to seeing it as much as everyone else!"

PNINA TORNAI

But who wants simple when Kate could go all-out with a highly embellished, bow-bedecked princess gown reminiscent ofDiana's own super-ornate wedding dress? Pnina Tornai, known to fans of Say Yes to the Dress for her straight-out-of-a-fairytale designs, has an eye for royally fabulous looks.

ELIE SAAB

Elie Saab's haute creations, which charm stars like Mila Kunis and Halle Berry, are renowned for making a woman’s shape look great as much as it pays tribute to striking, timeless silhouettes. The bridal look from the designer's most recent haute couture collection would allow Kate to shine by framing her face and highlighting her waist, while still making a truly grand entrance.

SASSI HOLFORD

"I have definitely done a design for her, so when the phone rings, I'm ready!" British designer Sassi Holford jokes to PEOPLE. "She is simple, classy, stylish ... [and] I would show off that fabulous figure!" What better way to do that than in an utterly elegant fit-and-flare gown? Though it's deceptively minimalist, it could be the perfect palette to set off a dramatic Philip Treacy hat.

AMANDA WAKELEY

Bruce Oldfield told Good Morning Americathat Kate's dress would have to have sleeves to reflect the formality of Westminster Abbey – so British designer Amanda Wakeley's full-skirted cowlneck gown, which could be accented with dazzling earrings – and of course, her Welsh-gold wedding ring – would fit the bill quite nicely.

PRISCILLA OF BOSTON

In a slimming empire silhouette, updated for the 21st century with a pretty pop of color, Kate would reflect the perfect marriage of old and new traditions. As a bonus, the jeweled collar of this classic Priscilla of Boston gown would perfectly mirror one of the tiaras she's expected to wear.

ROMONA KEVEZA

A newcomer to the red carpet circuit (with fans like Lea Michele and Christina Hendricks), Romona Keveza's designs are seriously stylish with a sweet sense of whimsy. Though the couple's first public kissmay be carefully choreographed, a romantic dress like this one, with its incredibly detailed skirt and soft sweetheart neckline, would lend the proceedings an air of spontaneity.

STEWART PARVIN

As a couturier to Her Majesty the Queen, Stewart Parvin has an inside eye for all things royal. Parvin tells PEOPLE that he'd like to see Kate in "something that shows off her figure ... something quite fashionable would be good." If he were to design her dress, he'd choose this elegant brocade "Poldark" gown from his own collection. "It's very figure-hugging, but with a huge skirt and a big long train ... it's very simple, but dramatic," he says. Why all the fuss over Kate's dress choice? "She has the potential to have a dress that launches 100,000 copies in the next ten years to come," he says. "If you think back to Diana, her dress was so influential in its day."

ANGEL SANCHEZ

A fashion-forward American designer would be a surprising – and chic – choice for Kate Middleton. Having dressed America's sweetheart Sandra Bullock for her nuptials, his figure-flattering and super-chic dress, with just a hint of shimmer, would allow Kate to stay covered while still showing off her coveted shape.

TEMPERLEY LONDON

British designer Alice Temperley was just presented with her Member of the Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II for her service to the fashion industry. But the Queen isn't the only royal to have recognized Temperley's romantic, feminine appeal – Kate herself has worn Temperley in the past and sister Pippa was spotted outside the Temperley shop in recent weeks. The designer won't comment on the royal wedding, but we think this bud-adorned, country-elegant gown would make for a perfectly pretty picture.

JENNY PACKHAM

Another British designer steadfastly dodging any royal wedding-related questions, Jenny Packham makes very modern designs in very timeless shapes. The floor-sweeping, major tulle skirt on this gown would have the impact required in a massive venue like Westminster Abbey, but the shawl collar and brooch-adorned waistband give the full-skirted look an updated feel.

LELA ROSE

When you've got nearly 1,900 guests to greet, you want a dress that allows ease of movement – and this simple, floor-skimming Lela Rose gown certainly provides that. With a modest, rose-patterned sheer top and a flowing, feather-light skirt, it would allow Kate to stay comfortable while looking polished.

PRONOVIAS

Combining the shape-flaunting appeal of a simple column gown with the jaw-dropping effect of a traditional train, this crowd-pleaser from Spanish label Pronovias would allow Kate to seamlessly transition from the formal ceremony to the late-night party with ease

OSCAR DE LA RENTA

This gown, from perpetually showstopping designer Oscar de la Renta, simply screams "Royal Bride." From its deeply traditional high neckline and lace sleeves, to its sweetheart bodice and A-line skirt, to the pretty flower appliqués dotting the skirt, it was practically designed to make a grand entrance.

IAN STUART

Another British bridal designer with a couture sensibility, Ian Stuart's name has also been circulated as a possibility for the bride-to-be. His taffeta "Premiere" gown could be an effortlessly elegant pick for her walk down the aisle: with its flattering ruched design, face-framing portrait collar and timeless ivory hue, it would look stunning in photos for years to come.

ELIZABETH EMANUEL

She's already wearing Diana's sapphireengagement ring, so perhaps Kate could pay tribute to William's mother by choosing a gown from Diana's wedding dress designer, Elizabeth Emanuel. The ultra-formal ballgown skirt, lace detailing and deep neckline would make a dramatic statement and give a sentimental nod to the late princess.

From : http://www.people.com/people/package/gallery/0,,20395222_20482951,00.html

Randy Fenoli Predicts Kate Middleton's Wedding Dress Style

2011-04-23T09:15:00.000-07:00

BY RENNIE DYBALL

Friday April 22, 2011 02:20 PM EDT

For many brides, a visit to Kleinfeld Bridal, the setting for TLC's hit show Say Yes to the Dress, is a highlight of the wedding prep process.

Since Kate Middleton has been a bit too busy to stop in for a consultation (imagine that), PEOPLE consulted Kleinfeld fashion director and Say Yesstar Randy Fenoli for his thoughts on what the most famous bride-to-be on the planet might wear on her big day.

While onlookers wait to see the future princess's dress, Fenoli predicts that her dress will be elegant, may feature volume – to fill the Westminster Abbey aisle, of course – and that Kate may cover her arms in keeping with more conservative royal style.

Check out Randy's musings, plus a bunch of gorgeous gowns!

From: http://www.people.com/people/package/article/0,,20395222_20483173,00.html

The Chapel Royal Choir prepares for the Royal Wedding

2011-04-19T07:46:00.000-07:00

The Chapel Royal Choir prepares for the wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton.

New Coat of Arms for Miss Middleton and her family

2011-04-19T07:43:00.000-07:00

Miss Middleton's Coat of Arms derives from one which is being granted to her father, Mr. Michael Middleton.

Miss Catherine Middleton has a new Coat of Arms in advance of her wedding to Prince William. Miss Middleton’s Coat of Arms derives from one which is being granted to her father, Mr. Michael Middleton. The design of the Arms was agreed and approved by Mr. Thomas Woodcock (Garter King of Arms and Senior Herald in England), who is based at the College of Arms in London.

The Middleton Family worked closely with the College of Arms throughout the design process to create a Coat of Arms that was personal to them and visually identified them as a family.

The three acorns represent Mr. and Mrs. Middleton’s three children (Catherine, Philippa and James). Acorns were chosen because the area in which the children were brought up – West Berkshire, England – is surrounded by oak trees. Additionally, oak is a long-established symbol of both ‘England’ and ‘Strength.’

The gold chevron, which sits at the centre of the design, represents Mrs. Middleton, whose maiden name is Goldsmith. The two thinner chevrons, which sit either side of the gold chevron, allude to hills and mountains and represent outdoor pursuits that the family enjoy together. The colours blue and red were chosen as they are the principle colours from the flag of the United Kingdom.

Miss Middleton’s Coat of Arms has been presented in the form of a ‘lozenge’ and is shown suspended from a ribbon, which indicates that she is an unmarried daughter.

Mr. Thomas Woodcock, Garter King of Arms said:

“Mr. and Mrs. Middleton and their children took enormous interest in this design and, while its purpose is to provide a traditional heraldic identity for Catherine, as she marries into the Royal Family, the intent was to represent the whole Middleton family together, their home and aspects of what they enjoy.

“Every Coat of Arms has been designed to identify a person, school or organisation, and to last forever: heraldry is Europe's oldest, most visual and strictly regulated form of identity and it surrounds us in Britain, giving clues to our history and surroundings. After her marriage, Catherine Middleton will place her father’s Arms beside those of her husband in what is known as an impaled Coat of Arms. This will require a Royal Warrant from The Queen."

The Grant of Arms has been made to Mr. Michael Middleton and his descendants in accordance with the laws of Arms, so all of his three children, including Catherine, are entitled to the Arms. Mr. James Middleton (Catherine’s brother) will pass the right on to his descendants.

Notes to editors:

An image of Catherine Middleton’s Coat of Arms is available from the Press Association.

The technical heraldic description of the Middleton Coat of Arms, known as a ‘blazon’ is Per pale Azure and Gules a Chevron Or cotised Argent between three Acorns slipped and leaved Or. Per Pale means that the Shield is divided vertically with one half blue (Azure) and the other half red (Gules). A Chevron Or means the gold chevron across the centre of the Shield. There arecotises either side of the chevron which are white (Argent). Slipped means ‘with a stalk,’ so the final part of the blazon – and distinguishing feature of the Shield – means three acorns with gold stalks and leaves.

Coats of Arms are granted under the Sovereign’s authority. Since the fifteenth century, this has been delegated to three Kings of Arms in England. They now have jurisdiction over England, Wales and Northern Ireland. In Scotland, Coats of Arms are granted by Lord Lyon King of Arms.

Like all applicants, Mr. Middleton started the process by submitting his request to England’s Earl Marshal, The Duke of Norfolk, who issued a warrant to the Kings of Arms agreeing to the granting of new Arms. In this case it fell to Garter and Clarenceux Kings of Arms (two of the three Kings of Arms) to grant the Middleton Coat of Arms by Letters Patent, as the Middleton Family live south of the River Trent, the historic division between north and south in England.

The Official Souvenir Wedding Programme

2011-04-19T07:41:00.000-07:00

A souvenir Official Programme will be published to mark the marriage of Prince William with Miss Catherine Middleton.

A souvenir Official Programme will be published to mark the marriage of Prince William with Miss Catherine Middleton. Official Programmes have long been a Royal tradition, and they were produced to mark the weddings of The Prince and Princess of Wales in 1981 and The Duke and Duchess of York in 1986.

The Programme will include the full Order of Service (as used by guests in the Abbey), a personal message of thanks from Prince William and Catherine Middleton, and a never-before-seen photo of the couple taken by photographer Mario Testino. The Official Programme will feature Prince William’s Coat of Arms on the front cover and Catherine Middleton’s new Coat of Arms on the back.

The Programme will be sold by 60 Explorer Scouts and 80 Cadets (supervised by adults) for £2 per copy at various locations along the wedding route and surrounding area on the 29th April. Proceeds from the sale of the Official Programme will go to benefit the Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry.

The Programme will also be available to download for free from the Official Royal Wedding website, www.officialroyalwedding2011.org, from 24 hours before the Wedding.

Haymarket Network was chosen to design and produce the official programme on behalf of the Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry.

Notes to editors:

Cadets and Scouts

Cadets from the Greater London Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association representing the Combined Cadet Force, Sea Cadet Corps, Army Cadet Force, and Air Training Corps, will be selling the programmes alongside Explorer Scouts aged 14 to 18 years old from across London.

In addition to Explorer Scouts supplying programmes to the public 250 Beaver Scouts, Cub Scouts and Scouts from as far as Manchester, Bradford, Carmarthen, Warwickshire and Cardiff will also be travelling to London to take part in the celebrations for the Royal Wedding.

The Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry

The Foundation’s mission is to fund projects and organisations that create opportunities so all can achieve their full potential, especially those who are vulnerable or damaged by their circumstances or experiences. The Foundation aims to create lasting change in targeted focus areas and geographies, based on need and the passions and interests of Prince William and Prince Harry. Early priorities for the Foundation are young people in society, sustainable development at home and overseas and the welfare of veterans and their families.

From: http://www.officialroyalwedding2011.org./blog/2011/April/19/The-Official-Souvenir-Wedding-Programme

Fashion world's surprise at latest name linked to Kate Middleton's Dress

2011-04-19T07:31:00.000-07:00

Fashion experts today expressed surprise at the dress designer who is the latest to be linked with the responsibility of making Kate Middleton's royal wedding gown.

They said Sophie Cranston, a 34-year-old Londoner, may not be enough of a big name - but would be likely to create a dress that would be "understated but very beautiful" and fit perfectly with Miss Middleton's personality.

They also praised the possibility of Miss Middleton choosing a younger, lesser-known designer and championing her career, having worn her designs in the past.

Farmer's daughter Ms Cranston, who has been mentioned in reports in the US, founded the Libelula studio nine years ago and has a shop in Chelsea and a studio in Spain. Miss Middleton wore a black velvet dress coat by Libelula at a friend's wedding in January.

Peta Hunt, fashion director of You And Your Wedding magazine, has just returned from New York, where she said speculation about the royal wedding on April 29 and the choice of dress were reaching fever pitch.

She said the choice of Ms Cranston was at odds with Miss Middleton's mother reportedly commissioning couturier Lindka Cierach - and rejecting her design - and having also been seen with Bruce Oldfield.

She told the Standard: "I don't understand why they would go to Bruce Oldfield or Cierach and Kate would go to a much lower-key one."

Astrid Joss, shopping editor at Brides magazine, said Ms Cranston "is not as big as the other people who have been named".

"Her wedding dresses have a 1920s, 1940s, feel. They're not big - they're very slender and slim. They're understated but very beautiful."

from: http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard/royal-wedding/article-23942476-fashion-worlds-surprise-at-latest-name-linked-to-dress.do

(Reuters) - The wedding of Britain's Prince William to university sweetheart Kate Middleton will be streamed live on the internet via an official royal channel -- the first time a British royal wedding will be covered in this way.

2011-04-19T07:26:00.000-07:00

Britain's Queen Elizabeth (C) uses a computer to upload a video to the Royal Channel on YouTube as Chad Hurley, co-founder of YouTube, and Nikesh Arora (partially obscured), president of Google Europe, Middle East and Africa, looks on at Google's British headquarters in London October 16, 2008.
REUTERS/Adrian Dennis/Pool

April 29's event, expected to be watched by up to two billion people across the globe, will be available on www.youtube.com/theroyalchannel and accompanied by a live multi-media blog assembled by royal officials.

St James's Palace, whose officials represent Princes William and Harry, said the feed would be taken from British public broadcaster, the BBC, without a broadcaster's commentary.

"Staff at Clarence House and St James's Palace will provide a live commentary with historical information, interesting links, additional photographs and video footage as well as an integrated Twitter feed," the palace said in a statement.

Officials said it was the first time a live blog would run alongside a live stream on video-sharing website YouTube for any occasion.

In addition, an official video "Wedding Book" on YouTube invites anyone to submit their own video of congratulations to the couple.

The royal family, previously seen as out of touch with modern Britain, is making extensive use of the internet and a variety of social media applications in the run-up to the big day.

Photographs related to the wedding will be released via photo-sharing site Flikr, and announcements on the day itself will be published on the official wedding site www.officialroyalwedding2011.org.

A @ClarenceHouse account on short messaging service Twitter will provide live updates on the day, and will be integrated into the live blog.

Alongside the video message option, anyone wanting to send the couple a message of congratulations on Twitter can do so using the hashtag #rw2011, officials said.

The royal family even have a page on social networking site Facebook (www.facebook.com/TheBritishMonarchy).

"Facebook users can click the 'I'm attending' button on 'The Royal Wedding' event to show their interest in the event," St James's Palace said.

From: http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/04/19/us-britain-wedding-interactive-idUSTRE73I33F20110419

Royal Bride's Virginity No Longer An Issue For Brits

2011-04-18T09:29:00.000-07:00

By GREGORY KATZ 04/ 8/11 09:41 AM ET

LONDON -- The once hidebound royal family seems to have caught up with Britain's tolerant public in the three decades that separated Prince Charles' marriage to Diana Spencer from the wedding of their first born.

Few people – royal or otherwise – seem bothered by the fact that Prince William and his fiancee, Kate Middleton, have been living together off and on during the course of their eight-year romance, which began in university days.

That's a marked turnaround from the days preceding Charles and Diana's 1981 marriage. At that time, there was a general expectation that Diana would not have dated before her engagement to the heir to the throne, and her own uncle came out publicly to declare her a "bona fide" virgin.

The more modern approach gives many royal watchers hope that William, 28, and Middleton, 29, will fare better in their marriage than Charles and Diana, whose very public marital breakdown tarnished the image of the royal family.

William, said royal expert Dickie Arbiter, is "his own man."

"He's made his own space and he decides what he wants to do and when he wants to do it," Arbiter said. "The fact that William and (Kate) have had a relationship for eight years speaks for itself."

William's decision to live with his fiancee has been met, in general, with a shrug. The British public seems comfortable with the royal family having updated its unwritten behavior codes to bring them more in line with widely held social values.

"We live in a modern age and people do all sorts of things before they settle down," said Keith Morley, 34, an engineer from Birmingham. "It's probably best that they lived together before making a commitment."

Some historians say it's about time the royals shed their prudishness about the past of new entries into their family. When Charles and Diana wed, his history of dating was not an issue. Charles may well have wanted to marry girlfriend Camilla Shand, but she was not seen as an appropriate choice because she had had several previous boyfriends. She became Charles' second wife decades later.

Deborah Cohen, a historian at Northwestern University in Chicago who specializes in modern Britain, says the failure of Charles and Diana's marriage apparently convinced the royal family that its rigid standards were backfiring.

"After two decades of scandal, I think it's the royal family recognizing that to be normal is to their advantage," she said. "It's a canny refashioning of the image. There is no longer an investment in being anachronistic, or a public expectation that they ought to be harkening back to a different era of sexual politics."

Royal attitudes toward sexuality have never been based on fixed rules but rather unwritten conventions. The code of behavior has evolved – slowly – over the centuries as social values change. It is the monarch who sets the tone, so the views of Queen Elizabeth II have prevailed for nearly six decades.

Practical concerns, more than squeamishness about sex, were behind the royal family's historic concerns over the sexual status of a bride joining the royal family, Cohen said, because there were fears that a princess carrying another man's child could bring an illegitimate heir to the throne. This was particularly important before paternity testing.

By Diana's time, Cohen said, the issue had come to represent a yearning for lost innocence as Britain – with Europe's highest divorce rate – was gripped by a perceived social breakdown.

A spokesman for Prince William, who refused to be identified because of royal policy, said palace officials would not comment on whether attitudes have changed, preferring to leave that role to others.

from: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/04/08/royal-bride-kate-middleton-virginity_n_846626.html

Kate Middleton’s tiara: Jewelry designers sketch dream tiaras

2011-04-18T09:24:00.000-07:00

According to tradition, a royal bride wears a tiara on her wedding day. Queen Elizabeth II wore a tiara for her wedding to the Duke of Edinburgh, as did Princess Diana, who wore the famous diamond Spencer tiara, a family heirloom piece. What tiara will princess-to-be Kate Middleton wear if she so chooses to for her April 29th nuptials to Prince William? A likely conclusion would be that the Queen will lend her a tiara from the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom collection. However, in anticipation of this momentous royal accessory, InStyle tapped the creative minds of some of our favorite jewelry designers to see what they would design for Middleton’s special day. See tiara sketches for Middleton from Chopard, Alexis Bittar, Cathy Waterman, and more in the gallery.

Royal Asscher
Since its founding in 1854, Royal Asscher has a long history with royalty, often designing pieces for the Crown Jewels collection. Now, one of Royal Asscher’s designers—Canadian jewelry designer Reena Ahluwalia—sketched a tiara for Middleton. “This tiara is set with 36 Royal Asscher-cut diamonds, as well as pear and round shaped white diamonds,” said Ahluwalia. “The tiara is placed on the forehead, which is inspired by 1920s style and the Strathmore Rose Tiara placement. We have imbued our tiara with romance and wishes for love that is long-lasting. Flowers and buds represent nature's most beautiful creations and here they symbolize the blossomed love between Kate and Prince William.”

Van Cleef and Arpels
Historically-rooted jewelry house Van Cleef and Arpels, which was founded in 1896, described its sketch as a “tiara set in 18-karat white gold with round and pear-shaped diamonds, and round sapphires.” Van Cleef & Arpels knows a thing or two about dressing famous political women, as previous designs by the label have been worn by First Lady Jackie Kennedy, Princess Grace Kelly of Monaco, and the Duchess of Windsor.

Chopard
Chopard, a jewelry house founded in 1860, designed a tiara that features hundreds of pear-shaped and round diamonds. Marion Cotillard and Kate Beckinsale are just a few of the celebrity fans who love this jewelry.

Alexis Bittar
“Elegant with a hint of art nouveau would be a great chic addition,” explained designer Alexis Bittar of his design, whose graphic jewelry has been worn by Michelle Obama, Natalie Portman, and Cameron Diaz.

from :http://royalwedding.yahoo.com/photos/sets/1003/Kate-Middleton-tiara-Jewelry-designers-sketch-dream-tiaras.html

Kate Middleton Might Have Designed Her Own Wedding Dress For The Royal Wedding!

2011-04-18T09:08:00.000-07:00

Another day, another designer name is thrown into the mix — but this time the gal behind the gown is being identified as Kate herself! Do you think the bride-to-be designed her own dress?

The Royal Wedding is getting closer, and every day another outlet has a new report on which designer has been chosen to craft Kate Middleton‘s wedding dress — but the latest news is naming Kate as the designer! According to the Daily Mail, the 29-year-old started creating the dress herself before she went to a dressmaker.

According to the outlet, the dress is ivory satin and lace with pearl button detailing and a 10ft train. “According to one impeccably-placed source, Kate has taken inspiration from her History of Art degree – particularly the Renaissance period, as she studied in Florence during her gap year.

She has also included what is described as a ‘nod’ to the iconic Emanuel wedding dress worn by Lady Diana Spencer, but has avoided including any of its ‘flounce’,” the Daily Mail reported.

It is rumored that Kate plans to accessorize with diamond and pearl earrings — although it’s unknown if they are new or family heirlooms. The bride-to-be will also borrow jewels from the Queen for her big day — including a dazzling tiara!

Over the weekend, the latest designer name to enter the wedding dress running was Sophie Cranston, designer behind the label Libelula. The designer was awarded as Designer of the Year at London’s Graduate Fashion Week in ’99 and has worked at both Alexander McQueen and Alice Temperley, (two brands the bride-to-be is a huge fan of), before staring her own label in ’02. Back in January, Kate wore one of Cranston’s vintage-inspired coats to a wedding.

A close friend told the Mail, “All we have been told is that the dressmaker is fairly unknown and from a relatively small design house. But make no mistake, whoever’s name emerges on the day, this is very much Catherine’s dress.”

If you’re so over all the speculation and the lack of details, you aren’t alone — even Prince William has been kept in the dark about the special dress! Although the Prince and the bride-to-be have agreed to auction off the dress after the big day, with proceeds going to a variety of charities, including the Prince’s Trust.

And for those of you that might have lost track of the rumored designer names in the running, the list includes: Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, Jasper Conran, Alice Temperley, Bruce Oldfield — and now, Sarah Cranston. Reports also claim Victoria Beckham has been enlisted to craft a frock for the evening reception.

from: http://www.hollywoodlife.com/2011/04/18/kate-middleton-wedding-dress-designing-royal-wedding-designer-sarah-cranston-libelula/

Kate Middleton's Wedding Dress Rumours Mount

2011-04-18T09:05:00.000-07:00

Reports claim unknown fashion label Libelula have designed the gown...

16:05, Monday, 18 April 2011

Kate Middleton's wedding dress has allegedly been created by little-known British fashion label, Libelula.

As speculation over who has designed Middleton's frock for next week's Royal Wedding continues to grow, US publication The Huffington Post has reported that Libelula is apparently behind the secret gown.

Libelula's Sophie Cranston was reportedly chosen by Kate to design the dress, which she will wear to wed future king, Prince William, on 29th April.

It has been rumoured that Kate's dress was going to be designed by Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen, with the likes of Daniella Issa Helayel, Bruce Oldfield, Jasper Conran and Alice Temperley also being linked to create Middleton's gown.

Kate has previously donned a fitted, black velvet Libelula coat to a pal's wedding in January, fuelling reports that she could also wear the English label to wed Wills.

There is currently no comment on whether Middleton will wear a Libelula frock, with reports suggesting that the 29-year old is "determined" to keep her dress a secret until the big day.

From: http://www.mtv.co.uk/artists/kate-middleton/news/267149-kate-middleton-royal-wedding-prince-william-dress

Royal wedding: Kate Middleton wedding dress designer speculation mounts with Libelula reports circulating

2011-04-18T08:56:00.000-07:00

Speculation over the designer of Kate Middleton's wedding dress is mounting today with a little-known British label reported to be behind the top-secret gown.

Sophie Cranston, of Libelula, is said to have been chosen by Miss Middleton for the all-important creation, according to The Huffington Post in the US.

It follows recent claims that Sarah Burton, of Alexander McQueen, is the designer, with Daniella Issa Helayel, Bruce Oldfield, Jasper Conran and Alice Temperley also reported to be in the running.

Miss Middleton wore a tailored black velvet Libelula coat to a friend's wedding in January.

Cranston, who won the prestigious Designer of the Year Award at Graduate Fashion Week in 1999, started on Saville Row and at Bellville Sassoon.

She worked for McQueen before setting set up Temperley in 2000 with Alice Temperley.

She started Libelula - which means "dragonfly" in Spanish - after moving to Andalucia in southern Spain to learn flamenco and Spanish.

Cranston returned to the UK and set up her headquarters and now has a studio in Greenwich, south east London.

According to its website, the label prides itself on creating "beautifully cut, timeless and flattering shapes".

It also offers bespoke wedding dresses, creating "vintage- inspired couture gowns".

There has been no comment yet from Libelula itself and St James's Palace has steadfastly refused to be drawn on any matters concerning the wedding dress.

Bride-to-be Miss Middleton is said to be determined to keep the details a secret.

Royal wedding guestlist: who will be attending on the big day

2011-04-18T08:41:00.000-07:00

Invitations to the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton have been issued in the name of The Queen.

Around 1,900 people have been invited to the service at Westminster Abbey, with 650 people of those going on to the lunchtime reception at Buckingham Palace given by the Queen and just 300 people attending the evening dinner at Buckingham Palace, which will be given by the Prince of Wales.

Over 1,000 of those attending are either family or friends of the Prince or Miss Middleton. Additionally, there are over 40 members of foreign royal families, over 200 members of government, parliament and the diplomatic corps, and approximately 80 people the Prince has worked with at his charities.

Names of note include:

Celebrities:

David and Victoria Beckham, Guy Ritchie, Sir Clive Woodward, Rowan Atkinson, Ben Fogle

The Middleton’s list:

Gary Goldsmith, Miss Middleton’s uncle who was caught on film allegedly dealing drugs. Alex Loudon, the boyfriend of Pippa Middleton. Sir John Madejski, the chairman of Reading football club. Richard Benyon, the Tory MP for Newbury.

Colleagues

All 27 members of the Prince's search and rescue flight C Flight 22 at RAF Valley in Anglesey have been invited to the wedding, along with their partners.

The Mustique Set:

Roger Pritchard and Brian Alexander, of the Mustique Company; Richard Schaffer, the island’s tennis coach; Gregory Allen, yoga teacher; Michael Bunbury, the local doctor; Basil Charles, owner of Basil’s Bar.

The exes:

Willem Marx, whom Miss Middleton dated at school, and Rupert Finch, whom she dated at university. Jecca Craig, reportedly Prince Williams’s first love; Isabella Anstruther-Gough-Calthorpe; Arabella Musgrove; Rose Farquhar.

Government list:

Includes Timur Kuanyshev, a Kazakh tycoon who made generous donations to the Royal Opera House. Ja Song-nam, North Korea’s ambassador.

from: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/royal-wedding/8443755/Royal-wedding-guestlist-who-will-be-attending-on-the-big-day.html

Royal wedding choristers reveal their preparations for Kate Middleton and Prince William's big day

2011-04-18T08:25:00.000-07:00

The boys of the Choir of the Chapel Royal who are set to sing at the royal wedding revealed today how they have been preparing for their big performance.
As well as extra music practice, the 10 choristers have also been perfecting the art of standing still, avoiding chocolate and trying to keep their distinctive scarlet and gold State coats clean.

The boys, aged between nine and 13, remained tight lipped over the chosen wedding music and even refused to say whether they had met Prince William and Kate Middleton.
Tom Fleming, aged nine and the youngest member of the choir, said: "I'm not too nervous. I've been doing several warm-ups and a lot of performances in front of no one."
For the wedding, the choir will dress in their traditional red and gold uniforms which date from the reign of Charles II.

Tom added: "It's heavy, very hot. We don't have to be too careful - just not to spill anything on it as if it stains it's very hard to remove."

Some of the schoolboys will also avoid eating chocolate just before the ceremony.
Archie Buchanan, 13, from London, said: "Chocolate can stop your voice from working and cola too and you mustn't eat (cough sweets) too."
But the choristers will be making up for their willpower as soon as they can following the service.

Ted Fetherstonhaugh, 11, said: "We've got to have a backpack of chocolate for after."
Choirmaster Dr Andrew Gant has also been ensuring the boys can stand motionless during the service without fidgeting.

Edward Daly, 12, said: "We have to practise standing still for a long time - five to 10 minutes. It depends on what Dr Gant is doing to deliberately make us laugh."

Dr Gant said the boys were used to doing so at Remembrance Service performances.

"If you come to our classroom sometimes you'll find me getting them to just stand still. It's quite hard to do when you're nine," he added.

Describing the current choristers as "a characterful bunch who are willing and work very hard", he added: "There are a few jokers."

The boys have also been learning about the royal couple themselves.

Hal Arnold-Forster, 11, said: "I know who's getting married as well. I think it's William who I think is a Prince, and Kate Middleton.

The choir consists of six Gentlemen-in-Ordinary, who are professional singers, and the 10 choristers who hold choral scholarships at the City of London School.

Today they were practising their rendition of Handel's Zadok the Priest which they will sing at the Abbey's Maundy Service on Thursday.

Dr Gant described Prince William and Kate Middleton's approach to the wedding music as "wonderful".

He said he and the boys felt very lucky to be involved in such a historic occasion.
"The music is a blend of the old and the new.

"Prince William and Kate Middleton have taken a wonderful approach.

"They have the ceremonial and the traditional but they have also taken the opportunity to update it and introduce new musical elements."

The choir, which sings the weekly service on Sunday mornings in the Chapel Royal at St James's Palace or The Queen's Chapel, has four full days of rehearsal coming up.

Oscar O'Rahilly, 12, said: "We've been doing a lot of practising. It's been quite rigorous. It's really exciting.

"Sometimes (during) practice we have breaks when we go and play Bulldog outside."

The Chapel Royal Choir, which has existed since the time of the Norman conquest, sang at the funeral of the Queen Mother at Westminster Abbey and the Golden Jubilee Service at St Paul's Cathedral.

The Chapel Royal itself, with its pale wooden stalls lined with green lamps, was built by Henry VIII.

Mary I's heart is buried beneath its flagstone floor and Elizabeth I said her prayers in the chapel against the threat of the Spanish Armada.

Read more from: http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/royal-wedding/2011/04/18/royal-wedding-choristers-reveal-their-preparations-for-kate-middleton-and-prince-william-s-big-day-115875-23070453/#ixzz1JtA82e62

Must Watch: Royal Wedding Dance Video

2011-04-17T21:36:00.000-07:00

Who knew the royals had such rhythm?

In honor of the upcoming nuptials, T-Mobile has released this dance video featuring a cast of uncanny lookalikes shimmying down the aisle of Westminster Abbey to the head-bobbing tune "House of Love" by British boy band East 17. The royal rump shakers include Prince Charles and Camilla, Prince Harry (who shows off some moves from his club hoppin' days) and the bride and groom, Kate Middleton and Prince William. Even the Queen Mum gets in on the action with some jazzy hand waving.

Catch some Saturday Night, er, royal wedding fever and watch the video:

And remember this other viral bridal video, which no doubt inspired T-Mobile's ad? Back in 2009, a couple and their wedding party greeted guests with a memorable routine choreographed to "Forever" by Chris Brown.

From: http://royalwedding.aol.com/2011/04/16/must-watch-royal-wedding-entrance--dance-video/

Kate Middleton's Wedding Dress Designer Revealed?

2011-04-17T21:33:00.000-07:00

Sophie Cranston of the Libélula label has landed the prized job, according to Yvonne Yorke of The Huffington Post.

I've been the first to report many exclusive details on the royal wedding, but the biggest scoop is undoubtedly the identity of Kate Middleton's wedding dress designer.

Sophie Cranston of the Libélula label is said to have won the coveted commission to make Catherine's wedding dress. You might recall that the royal bride-to-be stepped out to a friend's wedding in Yorkshire this January in a much-talked-about, vintage-inspired, Libélula black velvet dress coat with a diamante clasp -- the Dulwich coat, named after the area in South London where Cranston has her studio:

Through my insider sources, I've heard who was designing Catherine's wedding dress four months ago but kept it a secret in accordance with palace wishes, only divulging in my Huffington Post story last December that the designer is a young, relatively unknown British woman. At the time, everyone else was certain that Bruce Oldfield was the chosen designer. The relentless media speculation then moved on to a host of other names such as Alice Temperley, and even Victoria Beckham, before settling on front-runner Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen.

A St. James's Palace spokesperson I talked to won't confirm or deny that Cranston had been selected, only saying, "We are not being drawn on any speculation on the wedding and cannot comment."

But something this big won't stay a secret indefinitely. Catherine's wedding dress is near-completion and with less than two weeks to go, there's indication that the designer's identity might soon be revealed, anyway. It's also likely that there is more than one dress made (by the same designer), much like Princess Diana's dressmakers, David and Elizabeth Emanuel, who had a "back-up" dress in case something happened to the first one.

***For more royal wedding news, visit our Royal Wedding page.***

From what I've uncovered, the reason the palace did not announce the designer's name (as they did with the Emanuels who were confirmed just one month after Diana's engagement) was to protect Cranston and her family from media scrutiny for as long as possible, and to allow her the freedom to create the wedding gown of Catherine's dreams without additional pressures and distractions. It's stressful enough to make an unforgettable gown that will be seen by billions around the world and which will be immortalized in royal and fashion history.

34-year-old Cranston is young but certainly not short on talent. As I've said before, this will be another Jason Wu-moment -- when a talented, previously little-known designer is launched and becomes a globally-recognized name.

Cranston won the Designer of the Year Award at London's Graduate Fashion Week in 1999 and then went on to hone her design skills under the tutelage of Alexander McQueen before going into business with Alice Temperley to create the Temperley label in 2000. A couple of years later, Cranston left for Andalusia, Spain to pursue her interest in flamenco and her time at Costa La Luz inspired her to create her own label Libélula, which means dragonfly in Spanish. The line is known for its feminine, figure-flattering silhouettes, luxurious fabrics, and vibrant use of colors and prints. There is also a small ready-to-wear and bespoke bridal collection, according to her website.

Since establishing Libélula in 2002, Cranston has gradually acquired a loyal and discerning clientele which includes Catherine and the Middleton ladies, as well as Emma Watson, Jerry Hall and writer Celia Warden who married fellow journalist Piers Morgan last year in a Libélula gown.

Coincidentally, the Libélula española is one of the first helicopters invented -- perhaps a subliminal nod to Prince William's job as a search-and-rescue helicopter pilot? Oh, the little clues!

That's all, for now, readers -- don't expect me to reveal the exact design of the dress. After all, Catherine should have her big moment when she arrives at Westminster Abbey and surprises William and everyone else with her spectacular gown fit for a future queen.

Although St. James's Palace refuses to comment on the reports, the Daily Mail also confirms the Cranston news, saying that the gown was actually designed by Kate Middleton, who then enlisted the designer to help with the construction.

Made of ivory satin and lace with pearl-button detail and a 10-foot train, the garment was apparently inspired by the bride's days as an art history student, states the U.K. newspaper, and includes a "nod" to the Emanuel dress worn by Prince William's late mother Princess Diana.

from: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/yvonne-yorke/sophie-cranston-kate-middleton-wedding-dress-designer_b_850090.html & http://royalwedding.aol.com/2011/04/17/kate-middletons-wedding-dress-designer-revealed/

Homeless Girl Gets Royal Wedding Invite from Prince William

2011-04-17T21:28:00.000-07:00

As a tribute to his late mother, Prince William and his bride Kate Middleton intend to have the first "people's royal wedding" -- inviting political leaders as well as the postman. And amongst the pews at Westminster Abbey will also be Shozna, a former homeless teenager, reports the Mail.

The 20-year-old woman will be attending the ceremony on April 29, thanks to the prince and, in part, Princess Diana, who was an advocate for the homeless and helped to raise awareness through Centrepoint, a charity group. William has continued her efforts. Back in 2009, he even spent a night on the streets to show his commitment to the cause.

It was through this organization that he met Shozna. Centrepoint rescued the teen, who was without a home after suffering a stroke and undergoing major heart surgery, and provided shelter and a mentor to help her get back on her feet.

Hearing her heartbreaking story at an event last year, the prince expressed his admiration and gave the young woman a hug -- usually a royalty no-no. That small gesture has now led to something more rare -- a royal wedding invitation and the chance to rub elbows with the likes of Elton John and David Beckham.

Shozna (whose last name was withheld for privacy reasons) offered her wishes and gratitude to the groom during an interview with the U.K. newspaper. "I want to say to Prince William: 'Congratulations. Thank you for inviting me and thank you for making people feel like they are part of the world instead of being alone.'"

from: http://royalwedding.aol.com/2011/04/17/homeless-girl-gets-royal-wedding-invite-from-prince-william/

Official Royal Wedding Souvenirs

2011-04-17T21:25:00.000-07:00

by Anne Chertoff, Posted Dec 20th 2010 11:30AM

Press Association
While many manufacturers have already released royal wedding commemorative items -- china, T-shirts, thimbles -- the bride and groom, HRH Prince William of Wales and Miss Catherine Middleton, officially approved a set of three English fine bone china commemorative items to be sold through the royal family's official online shop.

Each piece features the couple's initials in gold and silver with the coronet of Prince William and the wedding date, April 29, 2011, and features a decorative pattern of doves, white ribbons and silver, gold and gray hearts, set against a pale gray striped background.

Unofficial Royal Wedding Souvenirs

Prince William's office said that the items had been commissioned by the Royal Collection, the charity that curates the royal family's artwork. The prince and Kate Middleton both approved the collection's design.

"The Royal Collection has been working on the design since around the time of the engagement -- it's a very fast moving process," the prince's office said in a statement.

The Royal Registry: What to Get the Couple Who Has Everything

The collection includes a commemorative plate ($62), a tankard or mug ($54) and a pillbox ($38). Each piece is handmade and individually decorated and embellished with several layers of burnished gold and platinum before a final layer of gilding in 22k gold is applied by hand. Each items is packaged in a presentation box and wrapped in white tissue paper printed with designs inspired by the wall hangings in Clarence House. The collection is made exclusively for the Royal Collection.

Gallery: Royal Engagement Portraits from Queen Elizabeth & Prince Philip to Prince William & Kate Middleton

You can purchase the collection online at royalcollectionshop.co.uk and at royal palaces. Profits from the collection will be donated to the Royal Collection.

from: http://royalwedding.aol.com/2010/12/20/official-royal-wedding-souvenirs-prince-william-kate-middleton/

The Taiwanese Animate The World's Royal Wedding Fever!!!

2011-04-16T11:55:00.000-07:00

This is a factual documentation of how the world is currently reacting two weeks before the wedding of Prince William and KateMiddleton.

News channels literally can not handle their shiz right now they are so excited! LOLZ!

Check out the latest from the Taiwanese News Channel, exploring the media frenzy surrounding the royal wedding. (above, in mandarine but you still can read the english word below)

Not their best, but still pretty HIGHlarious!!!

From: http://perezhilton.com/2011-04-13-taiwanese-news-channel-royal-wedding-fever-prince-william-kate-middleton

Going to to London for the royal wedding?

2011-04-16T05:35:00.000-07:00

Transport for London - wedding travel adviceOpens new window

The wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton on 29 April is set to draw huge crowds to central London.

Transport for London (TfL) is working with the Government, Metropolitan Police, Westminster Council and other agencies to ensure that people travelling to and from the area can do so quickly, safely and efficiently.

London's Transport Commissioner Peter Hendy said: 'All Tube lines will be running and our bus and streets teams will be working flat out to make sure that the closures and diversions needed are managed smoothly.'

Roads

The route of the wedding procession between Buckingham Palace and Westminster includes the Mall, Horse Guards Road, Horse Guards Arch, Whitehall and Parliament Square.

The following roads and surrounding areas will be subject to closures and parking restrictions:

Birdcage Walk
Broad Sanctuary
Buckingham Gate
Buckingham Palace Road
Charing Cross Road
Cockspur Square
Constitution Hill
Horse Guards Road
The Mall
Millbank
Pall Mall
Parliament Square
Strand
Victoria Embankment
Victoria Street
Westminster Bridge
Whitehall
Grosvenor Place
Haymarket
Hyde Park Corner
Knightsbridge
Park Lane
Piccadilly
Congestion Charge

As the wedding day is a Bank Holiday there will be no Congestion Charge.

Buses

A number of bus routes will be diverted or will finish before their usual destination.

They include: 3, 6, 9, 9 (heritage), 11, 12, 13, 15, 15 (heritage), 23, 24, 29, 87, 88, 91, 148, 159, 176, 211, 388 and 453.

There will also be a number of bus diversions on Wednesday 27 April.

Tube

All Tube lines will run and stations close to the procession will be open, including Embankment, Charing Cross, Waterloo, Westminster, Hyde Park Corner and Green Park.

For step-free access, passengers are advised to use Westminster station as the lifts at Green Park are currently being refurbished.

A limited-edition Oyster card to commemorate the wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton will be available from 21 April.

Around 750,000 royal wedding Oyster cards will be on sale from Tube and London Overground stations, TfL Travel Information Centres and some National Rail ticket offices.

The standard £5 deposit and £5 minimum top-up will apply.

DLR, London Overground and Tramlink

The Docklands Light Railway (DLR) will run as normal.

There will be a Saturday timetable in place on London Tramlink.

London Overground will be suspended between Watford and Willesden Junction for engineering works.

Replacement buses will run.

Coaches

Coaches will park at three venues outside central London: The O2, Wembley Stadium and Nine Elms Lane, New Covent Garden Market.

Further arrangements are being finalised.

Barclays Cycle Hire

The following docking stations will be suspended the evening before, and on the day of, the wedding: Northumberland Avenue, Whitehall Place and Craven Street on Strand, and Horse Guards Avenue and Waterloo Place on St. James.

From: http://www.tfl.gov.uk/corporate/media/newscentre/metro/19702.aspx

Taking part in the celebrations of royal wedding in UK

2011-04-16T05:29:00.000-07:00

If you would like to be part of the celebrations in central London and catch a glimpse of the royal couple then you can stand somewhere along the wedding procession route.

The route will include The Mall, Horse Guards Parade, Whitehall and Parliament Square. It is likely that space along the route will fill quickly early on the morning of 29 April. But you can also travel to Hyde Park or Trafalgar Square where you will be able to watch a free, live broadcast of the wedding on giant screens.

Please plan your journey carefully and check for the latest updates before leaving. On arriving in central London, you will be directed by clear signs and by a team of official stewards, who will be on hand to offer assistance as required.

View Larger Map

Accessible viewing for disabled people

Along the royal wedding processional route there will be a designated accessible space for disabled people with mobility issues (for example, wheelchair users) at various locations.

In front of the Palace of Westminster

This area was allocated via ballot, which is now closed. This area is accessible to ticket holders only.There are no parking facilities available. Access to the area is via public transport.

Horse Guards Road

As there are a limited number of spaces, only one wheelchair user plus a carer will be permitted access. This area will be stewarded and be available on a first come, first served basis. Spaces will be available from 6.30 am until 7.30 am on Friday 29 April. There are no parking facilities available. Access to the area is via public transport.

Trafalgar Square

As there are a limited number of spaces, only one wheelchair user plus a carer will be permitted access. This area will be stewarded and be available on a first come, first served basis. Spaces will be available from 7.30 am until 9.00 am on Friday 29 April.There are no parking facilities available. Access to the area is via public transport.

Hyde Park

For wheelchair users and people with mobility issues who wish to remain with their family and friends, there will be a designated area near the front of the viewing screen area. Spaces will be available from 7.30 am until 9.00 am on Friday 29 April. Public parking in and around Hyde Park will be very limited.

Plan your journey 1st look a road atlas. Download the PDF here

From: http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_195179?CID=Central&PLA=url_mon&CRE=royal_wedding

The Wedding of HRH Prince William of Wales and Miss Catherine Middleton: An update

2011-04-16T05:25:00.000-07:00

Ceremonial Timings

The following timings have been confirmed for the Wedding Day:

Between 8.15am and 9.45am: The general congregation will arrive at the Great North Door of Westminster Abbey.

From 9.50am: Governors-General and Prime Ministers of Realm Countries,the Diplomatic Corps, and other distinguished guests arrive at the Abbey.

10.10am The Bridegroom and Prince Henry of Wales leave Clarence House for Westminster Abbey. They arrive at the Abbey at 10.15am.

10.20am Members of Foreign Royal Families arrive at Westminster Abbey from Buckingham Palace.

10.20am Mrs. Michael (Carole) Middleton and Mr. James Middleton leave the Goring Hotel for Westminster Abbey. They arrive at the Abbey at 10.27am.

10.25am Members of the Royal Family (except those listed below) leave Buckingham Palace for Westminster Abbey. They arrive at the Abbey at 10.30am.

10.35am The following Members of the Royal Family leave Buckingham Palace for Westminster Abbey. They arrive at the Abbey at 10.40am:

                 - The Princess Royal and Vice Admiral Timothy Laurence
                 - The Duke of York
                 - Princess Eugenie of York
                 - Princess Beatrice of York
                 - The Earl and Countess of Wessex

10.38am The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall leave Clarence House for Westminster Abbey. They arrive at the Abbey at 10.42am.

10.40am The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh leave Buckingham Palace for Westminster Abbey. They arrive at the Abbey at 10.45am.

10.48am The Bridesmaids and Pages leave the Goring Hotel for Westminster Abbey. They arrive at the Abbey at 10.55am.

10.51am The Bride, accompanied by Mr. Michael Middleton, leaves the Goring Hotel for Westminster Abbey.

11.00am The Marriage Service begins. The Marriage Service will be relayed by audio speakers along the Route.

12.15pm The Carriage Procession of the Bride and Bridegroom with a Captain’s Escort of the Household Cavalry, followed by The Queen’s Procession with a Sovereign’s Escort of the Household Cavalry, leaves Westminster Abbey for Buckingham Palace.

12.30pm The Bride’s Carriage Procession arrives at Buckingham Palace.

12.40pm Members of the Royal Family and Members of Foreign Royal Families arrive at Buckingham Palace.

From 12.40pm: Other guests for the Reception arrive at Buckingham Palace.

1.25pm The Queen and the Bride and Bridegroom, together with their Families, appear on the Balcony.

1.30pm Fly Past by the Royal Air Force and Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

Notes

Miss Catherine Middleton, accompanied by her immediate family, will spend the night before the Wedding at the Goring Hotel. This was the Middleton family’s personal choice.

All arrivals at Westminster Abbey are at the Great West Door unless otherwise indicated.

All routes to and from Westminster Abbey are as already announced: The Mall, Horse Guards Road, Horse Guards Parade, through Horse Guards Arch, Whitehall, Parliament Square (south side), Broad Sanctuary. The additional route from the Goring Hotel to The Mall is yet to be confirmed.

The Wedding Service will be relayed by audio speakers along the Route. This is in addition to the screens already announced at Hyde Park and Trafalgar Square. More information for members of the public wishing to watch the Wedding Service in central London is available atwww.direct.gov.uk/royalwedding

Further information about the Ceremonial aspects of the day, including passengers in the Carriage Procession, will be made available closer to the Wedding Day.

from: http://www.officialroyalwedding2011.org/blog/2011/April/15/The-Wedding-of-HRH-Prince-William-of-Wales-and-Miss-Catherine-Middleton--An-update

Official Google Blog: A fairytale marriage: Google Earth and London in 3D

2011-04-15T07:54:00.000-07:00

Official Google Blog: A fairytale marriage: Google Earth and London in 3D

A fairytale marriage: Google Earth and London in 3D

2011-04-15T07:53:00.000-07:00

On April 29, the eyes of the world will focus on London for the royal wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton, and the U.K. will deliver a royal celebration that will capture the imagination of a global audience. We’re doing our part too: following last week'sannouncement of new aerial imagery for London, we’re expanding our 3D imagery of central London’s buildings and trees in Google Earth—including the entire royal procession route.

With this new 3D data covering the royal procession route, you can indulge yourself in a “royals’-eye” view to see the same sights that William and Catherine will see. Upon departingWestminster Abbey, you’ll pass the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, the famous ministries on Whitehall and the Prime Minister’s residence at 10 Downing Street. Traverse Horse Guards Parade, and from there, you can travel down The Mall—with 3D trees lining the route—and seeBuckingham Palace standing proudly at the finish.

This new 3D imagery isn’t limited to the royal parade route. Thousands of buildings are available, so people from around the globe can digitally experience the beauty of London. You can view buildings such as the British Museum, a treasure trove of historical artifacts, Goodge Street tube station, where General Eisenhower commanded allied forces in WWII, andShaftesbury Avenue, the historical theatre district of London.

What’s more, we’ve also turned St James' Park, Green Park and Hyde Park into a 3D lush green carpet, thanks to the help of our friends at the Royal Parks. We’ve modeled five different species of trees, and virtually planted more than 12,000 individual trees (available in Google Earth 6).

To see all the landmarks and greenery in Google Earth, check the 3D buildings box in the left-hand panel under “Layers,” type “London” in the search bar on the top left and use the navigation controls in the upper right to zoom in, spin around and tilt the view. Or you can go to Earth View on Google Maps in your browser.

Since moving to London from Leek, in Staffordshire, I’ve grown to appreciate all the royal and historic landmarks in the capital. So whether you’re standing near me and millions of my fellow Britons on the Mall on April 29 to catch a glimpse of the happy couple, or enjoying the spectacle from home, I hope this new 3D data for London brings you closer to this wonderful city.

A preview of the sunrise on April 29

Posted by Phil Verney, Program Manager, Google Earth & Maps

From: http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2011/03/fairytale-marriage-google-earth-and.html

I think Google is take this chance to test what ever they can~ is cool hope that many people will visit it.