Insider’s view: How wedding will unfold
HIGHTON etiquette expert and former Buckingham Palace employee Ana Retallack has had the unique experience of planning and attending a royal wedding.
An employee of the Lord Chamberlain’s Office from 1996 to 1999, Ms Retallack was responsible for helping to organise all major ceremonies and events, including the wedding of Prince Harry’s uncle Prince Edward to Sophie Rhys-Jones at the same venue as the upcoming nuptials.
One week out from the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, Ms Retallack has opened up to the Geelong Advertiser about how the big day comes together and what it’s like on the inside.
While there’s a “massive amount” of people helping organise the event, the Lord Chamberlain’s Office — where much of the planning and co-ordination takes place — has only eight to 10 staff.
Security of the carriage carrying the newlyweds as it travels through Windsor would be front of mind for organisers, Ms Retallack said, and all those involved would be running off booklets with a to-the-minute schedule of the day.
Ms Retallack predicts the involvement of the couple in the planning process would have evolved since her time at the palace, but said even in her day Prince Edward and his bride took every opportunity to attend meetings.
“I would imagine Prince Harry and Meghan would be acutely involved in helping to come up the ideas and giving things the thumbs-up,” she said.
Similar to the wedding of his uncle, Prince Harry’s ceremony will have about 600 guests but will be held much earlier in the day, noon rather than 5pm, and will be followed by a private party with only 200 guests.
Ms Retallack said wedding guests could expect a “surreal experience”.
“There’s a large area you’re allowed to wander around (at Windsor Castle) and every room you go into has a band or string quartet, making it feel fabulous.”
Ms Retallack said the rules of the day would not be enforced by an “etiquette police” in the way many would think because the people invited were probably familiar with what’s required — including a bow or curtsy for the Queen.
“But the Queen wouldn’t have a fit if you didn’t do that either. She is quite easy going. She knows people will be nervous,” she said.
Military personnel in attendance will be dressed in uniform while all other men will be required to meet a “morning coat” or “lounge suit” dress code.
A bright tie is recommended and the jacket and pants must match. Gentleman can accessorise with a top coat and gloves but the gloves are never to be worn, only held.
“For women a dress and some form of headwear. In the church your shoulders should be covered,” Ms Retallack said.
Ms Retallack now runs her own etiquette business, The Standard Companion, helping people feel more confident in their social and business life. Clients include CEOs who need help with public speaking and dining.
“I would imagine Prince Harry and Meghan would be acutely involved in helping to come up the ideas and giving things the thumbs-up.” ANA RETALLACK