Western Mail

Diana’s Welsh designer enjoying wedding buzz

- JAMIE JOHNSON Agency reporter jamie.johnson@walesonlin­e.co.uk

DAVID Emanuel, who designed Princess Diana’s dress for her wedding to the Prince of Wales in 1981, was soaking up the atmosphere ahead of Saturday’s ceremony.

“I think it’s incredibly exciting,” he said. “Meghan is going to bring a lot of glamour to the royal family and I just want her to look so elegant tomorrow.”

The 65-year-old designer said he was enjoying the buzz of the town and was excited to see what the dress would look like.

He added: “By now, the designer should have delivered her gown to the hotel for final pressing ready for the big day.”

Mr Emanuel has had a very successful television career after being catapulted to fame in 1981 but says he has fond memories of working with Prince Harry’s mother.

He added: “The sad note is that Diana won’t be here tomorrow. Diana was such a joy to work with.

“I delivered the gown to Clarence House and when I got there, there were all the corgis for the Queen Mother and we were given a private bedroom for Diana and we kept the bridesmaid­s in a separate bedroom.

“What was fun was, in the morning, Diana on her dressing room table had the television on and we could see all of the bands, and then we looked out of the window and going down the mall were the bands.

“It was a very special time. She had a lot of energy and a lot of fun, and that’s what I miss.

“If people remember anything, just remember she gave a lot of happiness to people and was a lot of fun.

“It’s a shame she’s not here to enjoy it.” THE Prince of Wales is to step in for the father of the bride and walk Meghan Markle down the aisle.

Kensington Palace announced that Charles would give his soonto-be daughter-in-law away when she marries Prince Harry today in the historic surroundin­gs of St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle.

The palace said the American former actress had asked her future father-in-law to accompany her as she makes her way to the altar.

In statement, Kensington Palace said: “Ms Meghan Markle has asked His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales to accompany her down the aisle of the Quire of St George’s Chapel on her Wedding Day.

“The Prince of Wales is pleased to be able to welcome Ms Markle to The Royal Family in this way.”

Meghan’s father Thomas Markle was forced to pull out after undergoing heart surgery.

 ?? STEVE SCHOFIELD ?? > David Emanuel and, inset, with Princess Diana on her wedding day in 1981
STEVE SCHOFIELD > David Emanuel and, inset, with Princess Diana on her wedding day in 1981

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