Here comes the bride — in a vintage Bentley, no less.
Today marks the British high society wedding of the year, with none other than Prince William (sans Harry) leading arrivals. Striding into the Chester Cathedral for the matrimony of The Duke of Westminster, Britain’s richest man under 40, and Miss Olivia Henson, who until the engagement remained a relative enigma, Wills kicked off the stream of starry guests and top notch aristos who are set for a mighty celebration. It comes after the Prince honoured D-Day heroes yesterday, as world leaders marked the 80th anniversary.
Hugh Grosvenor, 33, owns a vast 300 acres of London real estate, and is worth a total of £10.42 billion. He also boasts close relations with the royal family — King Charles is a godfather, while Grosvenor himself is the godfather to William’s George and Harry’s Archie. The future Duchess of Westminster, Olivia, 31, is an Old Marlburian, having studied at the same college as the Princess of Wales, and is a senior accounts manager at Belazu, the ethical food company based in London.
The bride opted for a gown by London wedding dress designer Emma Victoria Payne, complete with a touching tribute to her great great grandmother by incorporating floral motifs and edgings from her 1880 veil. Olivia also wore the Faberge Myrtle Leaf Tiara, which has been with the Grosvenor family since its creation in 1906, and a pair of blue high heels.
Also seen entering the Cathedral on a bright, Friday June morning was Princess Eugenie of York, who wore an Olive green, Joseph frock complete with pleated skirt and acorn-esque, beige Emily London hat with white veil. They were joined by throngs of Sloane Ranger types: printed dresses and gold, block heels at the ready.
400 guests were expected to fill the pews this morning, while the aisle is said to be lined with birch trees. The entrance, meanwhile, was packed with members of the public all hoping to get a glimpse of the inevitable flurry of Lords and Ladies, as they made their way in for the ceremony.
Arrivals at Chester Cathedral for The Duke of Westminster and Olivia Henson’s wedding
