The most anticipated British royal wedding of the year is just about to begin––so here’s everything we know so far.
On Friday, 7th June, the 7th Duke of Westminster, Hugh Grosvenor, will marry Olivia Henson, in what is set to be the “society event of the year.” Hugh Grosvenor, 33, is a billionaire businessman and aristocrat, known for his close friendship with William, the Prince of Wales. He is also Prince George‘s godfather! The Duke and his bride-to-be, Olivia Henson, 31, met through mutual friends in 2021 and announced their engagement in April 2023.
The pair have decided on Chester Cathedral, in the British town of Chester. Known for its Gothic and Romanesque architecture, the cathedral has a rich legacy within the royal family, but particularly for the Duke’s family.
“We’ve obviously got a long association with the cathedral as a family,” the duke shared with Tatler. Having grown up in Eaton Hall in Chester, “we were here for my father’s memorial, my sister’s wedding, and every Remembrance Sunday that I can attend is here.”
And with the couple planning on putting roots down in Chester after the wedding, the local cathedral sounds like the perfect choice!
Hugh Grosvenor and Olivia Henson recently visited Chester Cathedral to prepare for their big day. Speaking to Town & Country:
“I think next time we’re in here will be slightly more nerve-wracking, but I’m unbelievably excited. I also just wanted to make it very clear how unbelievably helpful people have been, how supportive they’ve been so far which I’m unbelievably grateful for. Because I do realize that it’s going to be a big thing for the city. It’s going to be certainly a huge thing for us, so we’re just really grateful for all the help.”
As with any high-profile wedding, let alone a royal one, there has been growing speculation about the guest list of the Westminster’s wedding. And with reportedly 400 guests invited, some big names from the royal family have already been confirmed.
Prince William – Confirmed to be an usher at the ceremony.
Prince George – No confirmation as to whether the Duke of Westminster’s godson will make an appearance.
Queen Camilla and King Charles III – While they have both been invited, it is unclear if they will attend due to the King ongoing cancer treatment.
Princess of Wales, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis – No confirmation on the attendance of the rest of Prince William’s family, due to Kate’s also undergoing cancer treatment.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle – It has been confirmed that the California-based pair will not be attending the event.
Reports have surfaced that the couple’s wedding cake will be lemon flavored! Much like the cake at Harry and Meghan’s wedding, which was lemon and elderflower, the Grosevnor’s are opting for a fresh, citrus cake.
Hugh Grosvenor has announced that they will be treating the Chester community to free ice cream and gelato at three local cafes, so everyone can join in the celebration!
We’re waiting with bated breath to catch a glimpse of Olivia’s royal wedding dress, what the bridesmaids will be wearing, and exactly what their cake will look like!
Until then, stay tuned for more updates on the Westminster Wedding.
