Meghan Markle and Prince Harry encountered an unexpected challenge during Pippa Middleton’s wedding, due to a surprising rule implemented by Kate Middleton’s sister.
The couple, who had recently started their relationship, were reportedly forced to sit apart during the wedding reception, causing considerable frustration.
When Meghan and Harry attended Pippa Middleton’s wedding at St Mark’s Church in Englefield on May 20, 2017, they were surprised to find that Pippa had decided to separate couples in the seating arrangement.
Despite having traveled 3000 miles from the United States to be with Harry, Meghan was not allowed to sit with him at the lavish event.
This unusual rule, intended to help guests mingle and get to know one another better, was an unexpected setback for Meghan.
Harpers Bazaar referenced the etiquette guide Debretts, which states: “It is up to the host to decide whether husbands and wives are to be seated together or apart at formal events.”
Pippa’s decision to separate couples on her big day adhered to this tradition, though it surprised many guests.
Adding to the complexity, Pippa had also initially enforced a “no ring, no bring” policy for her wedding, meaning that only spouses or fiancés were allowed as dates.
This rule nearly excluded Meghan from the event. However, Pippa made an exception for Meghan, allowing her to attend the after-party with Harry.
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Interestingly, Pippa’s brother James also brought a date who was not his fiancée, indicating some flexibility in the enforcement of the rule.
The wedding itself was a grand affair, with Prince William and Kate Middleton’s children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte, participating as pageboy and bridesmaid.
Despite the initial seating setback, Meghan and Harry were able to enjoy the event together during the after-party, and their presence added to the celebratory atmosphere of Pippa and James’s special day
