The subtle reference to Meghan’s divorce in the royal wedding invitations
The final details are coming together as Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding on May 19 draws closer.
One of the latest details to be revealed about the wedding are the traditional invitations that have been sent to guests, with MailOnline’s etiquette expert William Hanson noticing one subtle reference hidden in the copy.
The invitations follow many years of Royal tradition and have been made by @BarnardWestwood. They feature the Three-Feathered Badge of the Prince of Wales printed in gold ink. pic.twitter.com/cd7LBmRJxO
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) March 22, 2018
On the invites issued in Prince Charles’ name, Meghan is referred to as “Ms” Markle, where as in 2011, the Duchess of Cambridge was referred to as Miss Catherine Middleton.
“The royal household, in particular the Queen, has never before acknowledged the honourific Ms – regardless of whether it was being used to signify a divorced woman or one who did not feel her marital status was of importance,” said Hanson.
“It was first used in connection to Meghan in the November engagement announcement and since then has been used throughout the royal household's communications, on press releases, invitations and social media.
“I would imagine Meghan herself has asked to be styled accordingly and that there is no slight intended on Prince Harry's fiancée. It is another subtle sign that the royal household is moving with the times."
Meghan was previously married to film producer Trevor Engelson, with the pair marrying in 2011 after seven years of dating.
Three years later the couple divorced citing irreconcilable differences, with some claiming it was due to clashes in their work schedules.
Prince Harry and Meghan’s invites were shared with the public last week and were produced by company Barnard & Westwood, which has held a Royal Warrant for Printing and Binding by Appointment to Her Majesty The Queen since 1985.
The invites read, “His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales KG KT requests the pleasure of the company of....... at the marriage of His Royal Highness Prince Henry of Wales with Ms Meghan Markle at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle on Saturday 19th May, 2018 at 12 Noon followed by a reception at Windsor Castle.”
It is expected that 600 guests will attend the wedding service and then enjoy a lunchtime reception at St George’s Hall, held by the Queen.
Later, 200 guests are invited to a private reception at Frogmore House given by Prince Charles.