Wedding date and ceremony overview
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were married on Saturday, 19 May 2018. The ceremony took place at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle, in England, and was followed by a evening reception at Windsor Guildhall. Their wedding marked the union of the fifth in line to the British throne at the time and the American actress, in a ceremony watched by millions worldwide.
Pre-wedding events and timeline
Wedding Eve events
The couple observed traditions including a Wedding Eve Dinner at the Royal Lodge and a final gathering ahead of the ceremony. These events provided an intimate moment for family and close members before the public celebrations.
The rehearsal dinner
A rehearsal dinner held on 18 May 2018 allowed the families and bridal party to gather in preparation for the ceremony. This function served as an opportunity for key participants to review the processional details and enjoy a meal together.
Ceremony timeline and key moments
On 19 May, the wedding processional at St George's Chapel began with music and a gradual reveal of the bridal party. Meghan walked down the aisle to a live musical selection shortly before the ceremony commenced. Key rituals included readings, vows, the exchange of rings, and the pronouncement, culminating in the newlyweds sharing a kiss and exiting to applause.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Wedding date | 19 May 2018 | Official royal announcement |
| Ceremony venue | St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle | Royal household statement |
| Civil ceremony registration | Windsor and Maidenhead register office, 11 May 2018 | Registry office records |
| Church wedding license issue date | 15 May 2018 | Ecclesiastical legal record |
| Notable public appearances pre-wedding | Engagement photos released 27 November 2017; engagement interview 8–9 December 2017 | Kensington Palace communications |
Key participants and roles
The ceremony featured notable participants including family members, clergy, and musicians. The Archbishop of Canterbury officiated, while close friends and relatives played roles in readings and as attendants. Understanding the roles of participants helps clarify the structure and formality of the day.
Post-ceremony celebrations and reception
Following the vows, the couple traveled to Windsor Guildhall for a reception hosted by the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead. Guests enjoyed a meal and the newlyweds shared their first public appearance as a married couple. The evening reception reinforced the communal celebration of the union.
Formal recognition and legal context
The wedding combined both civil and religious components, with a civil ceremony on 11 May 2018 at the Windsor register office and a Church of England marriage ceremony on 19 May. This structure aligned with legal requirements in the United Kingdom, ensuring the marriage's recognition under both civil and canon law.
Global coverage and public interest
Media coverage from global outlets and live streams of the ceremony set records for online engagement at the time. The scale of public interest reflected the significance of a modern royal wedding involving a couple with international backgrounds and broad public appeal.
Evergreen context and legacy
Harry and Meghan's wedding continues to be referenced in discussions about modern royal ceremonies, multicultural representation, and the evolving public role of senior working royals. The event remains a notable point of reference for future royal weddings and public celebrations.