A Royal Wedding

by James Harding

In just under six weeks time, Prince William will marry Kate Middleton, and with anticipation growing in the build-up to the royal wedding, memorabilia and souvenirs seem to be springing up everywhere.

It’s been announced as a public holiday, meaning two days off work, and is all set to be one of the highest-profile British weddings ever, with live TV coverage of the ceremony to be broadcast into the homes of millions of Brits.

It’s been a love story to capture the imaginations and to win the hearts of the nation, and kept the royal family in touch with the common man. William, 28, and Kate, 29, met while studying together at the prestigious St. Andrew’s University in Scotland. Both achieved a 2:1 degree and the pair were even housemates during their studies.
Local councils have even stretched by-laws on street party regulations to allow as many people as possible to celebrate the matrimony of the second in line to the throne, as the British public looks forward to taking advantage of the long weekend.

Despite this, many people still seem disinterested in the event. One member of the public said "I'll completely avoid it." The main draw for a TV audience may well be the glamour appeal generated by Kate Middleton, who has become something of a fashion icon.

Prince William, 28, has throughout his adult life been exposed to publicity as the oldest son of the tragically widowed Charles Prince of Wales.                                                 His father’s wedding to the late Diana Spencer took place at St Paul’s cathedral in front of 3,500 guests, as well as an estimated worldwide TV audience of 750million people.

Prince William’s wedding looks likely to follow in the same vein of public interest. 

Such is the buzz in the public’s eye that the event even has its own website, williamandkatetheroyalwedding.com, where you can send messages to the couple, organise street parties, and buy gifts and official memorabilia for the event. The items available on the website range from postcards and replica engagement rings to champagne flutes and crystal vases worth £640.