Discover the captivating elements of Princess Eugenie's wedding and the royal traditions that shaped the ceremony.
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Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank’s wedding at St George’s Chapel was a spectacle of elegance and tradition, making headlines for more than just the couple’s romance. The ceremony, steeped in royal history, was attended by a star-studded guest list, and yet, it was the protocol behind an empty seat that sparked intrigue.
Stunning details of the ceremony
The wedding, held on October 12, 2018, saw Princess Eugenie radiate sophistication in a stunning low-back gown crafted from ivory brocade. Designed by Peter Pilotto and Christopher De Vos, the gown was complemented by exquisite shoes from Charlotte Olympia.
Adding to her regal appearance was the remarkable Greville Emerald Kokoshnik Tiara, a family heirloom passed down to her from the Queen Mother.
With 850 guests in attendance, including celebrities like Cara Delevingne and Robbie Williams, the occasion was a grand affair—150 more guests than Prince Harry and Meghan Markle had at their wedding just five months earlier in the same venue. As Eugenie made her entrance with her father, Prince Andrew, her beaming smile contrasted sharply with the visible emotion on Jack’s face.
The empty seat mystery
However, amidst the celebration, an unusual detail caught the attention of royal watchers: a prominent seat left empty in the chapel. Speculation swirled around this absence; was it a tribute to a late relative or a missing guest? The truth, however, was rooted in maintaining royal decorum and ensuring the Queen’s comfort.
According to royal tradition, the Queen and her family occupy the right-hand choir pews during ceremonies, closest to the altar. Protocol dictates that no one should sit in front of the Queen, obstructing her view. This vacant seat was not just an oversight—it was a deliberate act of respect, ensuring that the Queen could fully witness her granddaughter’s vows.
A family connection
Princess Eugenie’s relationship with the late Queen was particularly close. She affectionately referred to her as ‘Granny’ and shared many cherished moments with her, including summers spent at Balmoral. On this special day, Eugenie honored her grandmother’s legacy, which was evident in the tiara she wore—an emblem of trust and love that the Queen had bestowed upon her.
This intimate connection extended beyond the tiara. The Queen’s preference for sitting in the second row, alongside her late husband, Prince Philip, meant that the front row was reserved for Eugenie’s immediate family. As a result, Prince Charles, Prince William, Kate Middleton, and Prince Harry all joined her in the second row, ensuring the Queen could see everything without obstruction.
Tradition meets modernity
Even in the modern royal context, traditions remain steadfast. When Prince Harry married Meghan Markle earlier that year, he too left a seat vacant for the Queen, initially thought to honor his mother, Princess Diana. Yet, it was later clarified that this gesture was again to ensure the Queen’s clear view of the proceedings.
Interestingly, the Queen’s need for accommodation was not necessary during the 2011 wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton, as she was seated comfortably in the front row. Yet, traditions evolve, and both King Charles and Prince William continue to uphold these practices, keeping the legacy alive.
A royal legacy
The empty seat at Eugenie’s wedding was not merely a procedural formality but a poignant reminder of the royal family’s evolving dynamics. As King Charles ascended to the throne in 2022, he too observed this tradition by leaving a chair empty during official ceremonies, signifying both respect for the past and an acknowledgment of the present.
Moreover, during personal reflections after his father Prince Philip’s death, Charles noted the absence of his father’s presence at the family table, a sentiment echoed in the royal carriage at the Royal Ascot, where an empty seat was left in honor of the Queen.
Final thoughts
In a world where royal weddings often dominate headlines with their grandeur, the nuances of tradition and protocol offer a deeper narrative. Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank’s wedding was not just a celebration of love but a testament to the enduring legacy of royal customs. The empty seat, while seemingly minor, encapsulated a rich history of family dynamics, respect, and the intimate bonds that transcend generations. As the royal family continues to navigate modernity, these traditions will undoubtedly shape their future, inviting curiosity and speculation from the public.
