A Royal Celebration

Ahhh…the whole world loves weddings—especially a royal wedding with all its colorful pomp and circumstance and adoring throngs. Yesterday, after months of rumors, Buckingham Palace finally gave the word that, yes, it’s official—Prince William is engaged to long-time girlfriend, Kate Middleton (check out the cute couple below!). Of course, their every move will now be closely watched until the big day itself as reporters scramble to find out whose dress she’ll wear, who will be in the wedding party, who’s on the coveted guest list, etc., etc.


Courtesy Photo

After all, royal nuptials influence weddings for years, and even decades, to come. Back in 1845, Queen Victoria wore a white wedding gown (before then most women just donned their Sunday best) and set the standard for the traditional bridal gown. Grace Kelly, who married Prince Rainier of Monaco in 1956, embraced the silhouette of the day and opted for a long-sleeved, lace-bodice gown with a very full skirt. Again, another classic style that is still seen on the runways today. In 1981, Prince William’s mother, Princess Diana, opted for a grand silk ballgown with extremely full, pouf sleeves and a train that extended down the steps of St. Paul’s Cathedral. Those large, look-at-me sleeves immediately established a bridal fashion trend that lasted well into the 1990s.
We may not know many of the details yet for this modern-day royal wedding, but we do know the Champagne the couple probably toasted their engagement with and will serve at the wedding: Champagne Bollinger. It was favored by none other than Queen Victoria (quite the trend setter that one!) and has been awarded the Royal Warrant by no less than seven British monarchs since 1884. It is also the exclusive purveyor to the British Royal Family. But, hey, why let Wills and Kate have all the fun? Pick up a bottle of Champagne Bollinger (try the Special Cuvée NV) and toast your own magnificent, fairytale wedding to come!