David Emanuel

‘I’m lucky to have survived cancer…’

David Emanuel, 65, is best known for designing – with ex-wife Elizabeth – the late Diana, Princess of Wales’ wedding dress. David, who hosts Say Yes to the Dress: UK, shares his thoughts on the Duchess of Sussex and his wish to have tea with the Queen.

How do you take your tea?

White, no sugar.

Who would be your ideal guest for tea?

Her Majesty, the Queen. I’ve met her on several occasions, but never intimately, so I’d love to sit down with her, one to one. It would be extraordinary.

Why are you supporting Macmillan World’s Biggest Coffee Morning?

I’ve supported Macmillan since I was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2012. The Macmillan nurses were amazing, and incredibly supportive. They were there for me 24/7. I’m lucky to have survived with no after-treatment. I had a Macmillan nurse and consultant at the hospital, who gave me huge peace of mind when I was anxious. They were godsends!

What was it like designing Princess Diana’s wedding dress all those years ago?

It was 1981, and it was an extraordinary time. She was wonderful, the occasion itself was wonderful, and it was a wonderful moment in my career. I would say it’s been my passport round the world.

And what did you make of the Duchess of Sussex’s wedding dress?

Why compare? They were decades apart, they’re completely different women, and fashion moves on.

What do you make of Meghan’s style and demeanour generally?

She looks great, and what I’m impressed about is that she came in with her own style, but she’s managed to adapt it to a royal wardrobe.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

When I was very young, my mother told me, ‘Believe in yourself, expect to work hard and keep focused.’ And it’s absolutely the reason

I’m where I am today. No question.

By joining Macmillan’s Coffee Morning this September, David is helping people with cancer live life as fully as they can. For more information, see coffee.macmillan. org.uk