Finally engaged! The official announcement at St. James Palace (WireImage/Samir Hussein)
Prince William and Kate Middleton (I’m sorry–Catherine Middleton, as she prefers to be known) have finally announced their engagement, which took place in October in Kenya. The news doesn’t come as much of a surprise–their recent joint appearance at Harry and Rosie Meade’s wedding was seen as “significant,” as we mentioned–but it’s still very welcome news to royal watchers, who collectively lost their minds today.
William used Princess Diana’s famous diamond and sapphire ring, reportedly saying he wanted to make sure Diana “didn’t miss out on the excitement.” In a joint appearance at St. James Palace that will go in the history books–you remember Charles and Diana’s famous engagement photocall, right?–Kate wore her favorite designer (and, by the by, one of mine) Issa, ramping up rumors that Danielle Issa Helayel will be the lucky one to design the wedding dress. In an official statement, Clarence House said: “The Prince of Wales is delighted to announce the engagement of Prince William to Miss Catherine Middleton. The wedding will take place in the Spring or Summer of 2011, in London. Further details about the wedding day will be announced in due course. Prince William and Miss Middleton became engaged in October during a private holiday in Kenya. Prince William has informed The Queen and other close members of his family. Prince William has also sought the permission of Miss Middleton’s father. Following the marriage, the couple will live in North Wales, where Prince William will continue to serve with the Royal Air Force.”
Kate Middleton wears Princess Diana's diamond and sapphire engagement ring (WireImage/Samir Hussein)
A Buckingham Palace spokesman said: ‘Both the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh are absolutely delighted for them both.’ Meanwhile, Prince Charles prnounced himself ‘thrilled,’ joking that the couple had been ‘practicing long enough’, and Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, said: ‘It’s the most brilliant news. I’m just so happy and so are they. It’s wicked.’
Michael and Carole Middleton, who must be relieved to finally be allowed to speak publicly about their daughter’s relationship, said they are ‘absolutely delighted’ and ‘thrilled’. Mr Middleton said: “As you know Catherine and Prince William have been going out together for quite a number of years. Its great for us because we have got to know him extremely well. We think he is wonderful. They make a lovely couple, they’re great to be with and we’ve had a lot of laughs together. We wish them every happiness for the future.”
