On April 29, 2011, Prince William and Kate Middleton exchanged vows at Westminster Abbey in London with the world watching. The reported $34 million wedding (with most of the budget going to security costs) was broadcast live in 180 countries for the first British royal ceremony in 30 years — it was a big deal!
Now, 13 years later, taking a look back at Prince and Princess of Wales’ special day seems like simpler times: Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip were alive and Prince William and Prince Harry shared the sweetest brotherly moment as Kate walked down the aisle with her dad, Michael Middleton — the family feud was still seven years away.
The stunning images from the procession show Kate as a blushing bride in an ivory satin dress with a gorgeous V-neck lace bodice designed by Sarah Burton at Alexander McQueen. William looked handsome in his Irish Guards mounted officer’s uniform as he waited for his future queen to stand beside him in work and in life. The adorable bridal attendants stole the show, and the world was introduced to Kate’s younger sister, Pippa Middleton, who looked flawless her maid-of-honor gown.
It was a magical day for the future King and Queen of England, who went on to start a family in 2013 with the arrival of their son, Prince George. He was joined by sister Princess Charlotte in 2015, and brother Prince Louis in 2018, as the next generation of royals to carry on the legacy of the monarchy.
Prince William and Kate Middleton have certainly weathered a lot over their 13 years of marriage, but they are a united front, happily serving out their royal duty and remembering that fairy-tale moment when they both said, “I do.”
Take a look back at the special moments from the Prince and Princess of Wales’ wedding day.
First Glimpse at Prince William
Prince William and Prince Harry wave to the crowds upon their arrival at Westminster Abbey.
A-List Guests
Longtime friends of the royal family, David Beckham, and Victoria Beckham wore their wedding finest to attend Prince William’s wedding to Kate Middleton.
Pleased as Punch
The palace made sure to invite one of Princess Diana’s favorite pals, Elton John, and his husband, David Furnish. The “Rocket Man” singer looked thrilled to be at the wedding.
Go Big or Go Home
Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie were the talk of the town for their flashy fascinators — it was an iconic fashion moment.
Breathtaking Bride
Kate, escorted by her father, Michael Middleton, arrived at Westminster Abbey looking absolutely stunning.
Cuteness Alert
Maid of Honor Pippa Middleton escorted the adorable pageboys and bridesmaids into Westminster Abbey.
Here Comes the Bride
The procession down the aisle was picture-perfect as the first royal wedding in 30 years was about to take place.
With This Ring…
Prince William exchanged rings with his bride in front of the Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams inside Westminster Abbey and almost 2,000 guests.
Fab Four
Prince William takes Kate’s hand as she formally became, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge. Pippa fulfilled her maid-of-honor duties by carrying her sister’s long train.
Ray of Sunshine
Queen Elizabeth II looked radiant in her yellow dress as she spoke to the then-Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.
Proud Uncles
Princess Eugenie, Prince Edward, Princess Beatrice, and Prince Andrew exited Westminster Abbey after the ceremony.
Jovial Harry
Prince Harry waved to the crowd as the carriage procession to Buckingham Palace began after William and Kate’s wedding ceremony.
Mr. & Mrs.
Kate and William traveled down The Mall to Buckingham Palace in a 1902 State Landau horse-drawn carriage following their wedding ceremony at Westminster Abbey.
The Crowds Celebrated
Thousands of well-wishers from around the world flocked to London to witness the spectacle and pageantry of the royal wedding.
Royal Wedding Merch
A royal wedding souvenir teapot was for sale to celebrate Prince William’s marriage to Kate Middleton — all roads lead to a gift shop!
The Bride & Groom’s Parents
Michael Middleton, Carole Middleton, Prince Charles, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall greeted the crowds of admirers from the balcony of Buckingham Palace.
The Kiss
Prince William and Kate kiss next to bridesmaids Grace Van Cutsem and Margarita Armstrong-Jones, who had hilarious reactions to the iconic moment.
The Reception Line
Kate conversed with her VIP guests, including Governor-General of Canada David Johnston and Sharon Johnston at Buckingham Palace after her wedding to Prince William.
Getaway Car
Prince William and Kate looked ecstatic leaving Buckingham Palace on their way to Clarence House. They traveled in Prince Charles’ 1969 Aston Martin DB6 Volante decorated with bunting, ribbons, and balloons.
Wardrobe Change
Kate changed into a second wedding dress that was also designed by Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen. She headed back to Buckingham Palace for the evening celebrations following her wedding to Prince William.
A Night to Remember
Prince William, Kate Middleton, and Prince Charles leave Clarence House to travel to Buckingham Palace for a night of fun after such a memorable day.
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