Royal Family News
Duchess of York Invited to Prince Harry’s Wedding Amid Controversy
The upcoming wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle has captured the attention of the world, and with it comes intense scrutiny over the guest list.
One particular name causing controversy is that of the Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson, Prince Andrew's former wife and mother to Harry's cousins Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie.
Rumours had been circulating that the Duchess had been left off the guest list, but well-placed sources have confirmed that this is not the case.
In fact, Harry fought for his aunt to attend the wedding and has made it clear that he wants her present at both the ceremony and the evening reception.
However, senior royals, including Prince Charles and Prince Philip, have expressed their opposition to the Duchess attending the wedding due to a string of embarrassing incidents since her split with Prince Andrew in 1996.
Buckingham Palace has made it clear that they do not want her to attend, but Harry has insisted on having her there.
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The issue has caused a massive headache for both Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace, where Harry is based.
Courtiers have been adamant that the Duchess should not be invited to join the senior royals, who will all be in attendance at the wedding.
One option being discussed is to invite the Duchess to the evening reception only, which may be held at Frogmore House in the grounds of Windsor Great Park.
This would cater to guests whose presence at the wedding ceremony would be more difficult, as well as the couple's wider circle of friends.
The evening reception is expected to be a more relaxed and fun event, with up to 600 guests mostly comprised of Harry and Meghan's friends.
However, speeches will still be given at the dinner, so guests will feel like they are part of the big day.
Despite opposition from senior royals, Harry has made it clear that he wants his aunt present at the wedding.
He has kept in touch with Sarah over the years and has previously holidayed with her at the Swiss key chalet she bought with her former husband.
It remains to be seen whether the Duchess will attend both the ceremony and the evening reception or just the latter.
However, one thing is clear: Harry has nailed his colours to the mast and made it clear that he wants his aunt there, and she will be.
The awkward aunt problem is not uncommon at weddings, and this time it has thrown up a major headache for Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace.
With every wedding comes the issue of who to invite, and this high-profile event is no exception.
Despite the controversy surrounding the Duchess's attendance, the world eagerly awaits the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on May 19 at Windsor Castle.
It is sure to be a day filled with love, joy, and celebration, and all eyes will be on the happy couple as they begin their new life together.