The Best Gossip From Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's Wedding Reception
Prince William gave a "naughty" speech.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's wedding ceremony yesterday was a gorgeous, sweet, and public affair, with the events at St. George's Chapel televised for the entire world to watch—their evening reception, on the other hand, was a much more private and secretive todo.
Following the ceremony and a lunchtime reception (where Elton John reportedly performed a rendition of "Circle of Life" from The Lion King, which, incredible), Harry and Meghan changed into party attire—a tux for him, a tremendous bespoke Stella McCartney gown for her—and headed to their nighttime party in a fancy Jaguar.
Here, the best details, news, and gossip from the party:
Prince William Gave a "Naughty" Best Man Speech
When he was asked how he felt about his brother choosing him to be best man, Prince William stated, "It feels great, a real delight ... revenge is sweet," so, it was to be expected that there'd be some good old fashioned brotherly jabs in Will's toast. (Harry also joked to reporters that he'd got down on one knee to ask his brother to be best man, so...)
Meghan Also Gave a Speech Directed at the Royal Family
Breaking with royal tradition, the bride spoke at the reception. Meghan gave a special "thanks" to her new in-laws for welcoming her into the family.
The Newlyweds First Dance Was to Whitney Houston
Proving that they're the best couple ever, Meghan and Harry chose Whitney Houston's "I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)" as the song for their first dance, The Telegraph reports.
The Cocktails Were Harry and Meghan-themed
A source tells The Daily Mail that the couple served "When Harry Met Meghan" cocktails that were ginger and rum, "as a cheeky nod to Harry's red hair."
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
The Dinner Lasted Nearly Three Hours
The sit-down dinner which lasted from 7:30 to around 10pm was all organic, sourced at the request of Prince Charles, Daily Mail reports, and the canapes were themed 'spring meets summer'.
There Were Midnight Snacks
Like any good wedding that goes a full 12 hours, there were late-night snacks served to keep partygoers going. Candyfloss and 'dirty burgers' were doled out as midnight snacks, which, yum.
Only 200 Guests Attended
While the early festivities included around 600 guests, only a select few 200 people got invites for the nighttime party, which was hosted by the Prince of Wales. Sarah Ferguson was earlier reported to be one of the guests who did not make the cut for the evening event because of her history with her former brother-in-law, Prince Charles. She did, however, come to the ceremony at St. George's Chapel where she sat in the Quire on the opposite side of the Queen. But hey, she wasn't invited to Prince William and Kate Middleton's wedding at all, so...
And They Wore Completely Different Outfits
While the dress code for daytime was day dresses and hats, the evening festivities called for something a little more, well, festive—and fancy. Celebs like Priyanka Chopra, Serena Williams, and Meghan's best friend Jessica Mulroney changed into red carpet-worthy gowns for the party.
A post shared by Serena Williams (@serenawilliams)
A photo posted by on
And Serena Williams even switched to sneakers under her Valentino gown!
A post shared by Serena Williams (@serenawilliams)
A photo posted by on
James Corden Played MC
James Corden apparently didn't take a break from his late-night hosting duties last night and took on the role of entertainer and host for the evening at Frogmore House.
Prince Harry Gave a Cheesy Intro for Sir Elton John
"Can anyone play the piano?" Harry reportedly quipped before Sir Elton John performed a few of his hits. "Your Song," "Tiny Dancer," "Circle Of Life," and "I'm Still Standing," were reportedly all among the songs the royal wedding guests were treated to yesterday.
There Was a Fireworks Display
According to The Telegraph, fireworks were set off above Windsor Castle around 11pm last night.
There Was an After-After Party
According to The Daily Mail, many guests traveled back to London after the Windsor festivities ended last night to continue the party at one of Harry's favorite spots, Chiltern Firehouse in Marylebone.
RELATED STORIES
Sally is the Editor in Chief of Marie Claire where she oversees coverage of all the things the Marie Claire reader wants to know about, including politics, beauty, fashion, and celebs. Holmes has been with Marie Claire for five years, overseeing all content for the brand’s website and social platforms. She joined Marie Claire from ELLE.com, where she worked for four years, first as Senior Editor running all news content and finally as Executive Editor. Before that, Sally was at NYMag.com's the Cut and graduated with an English major from Boston College.
-
'American Primeval' Is Bound to Be Your First Netflix Obsession of 2025—Here's What to Know About the Cast
Taylor Kitsch and Betty Gilpin led the gritty miniseries about a family's trek across the American West in 1857.
By Radhika Menon Published
-
Katie Holmes Taps Every Fashion Editor's Favorite Unexpected Color Combo
Try this insider styling trick ASAP.
By Kelsey Stiegman Published
-
Only Three Episodes of 'The Traitors' Season 3 Have Dropped, But the Traitors Are Already Headed for Betrayal
The producers truly chose chaos for this installment of Peacock's reality hit.
By Quinci LeGardye Published
-
Princess Kate Isn't Always "Well Enough" for Royal Duties, but She's Learning to "Pace" Herself
"She is looking after herself and is wise to do so," a family friend shared.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Issue Statement on California's Devastating Wildfires
The Sussexes addressed the disaster, which is "affecting tens of thousands from all walks of life."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Queen Elizabeth's Final Birthday Gift to Kate Middleton Was a Precious Heirloom With Specific Rules Attached
The present, which was from the Queen's private collection, "brought tears to Kate's eyes."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
How Princess Kate Broke Tradition with Her Stunning 43rd Birthday Photo
The Princess of Wales posed for a black-and-white pic by one of her favorite photogs.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Meghan Markle Shares Her Most Personal Instagram Post Yet—Including Rare Glimpses of Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet—After Their Beloved Dog Dies
"Thank you for so many years of unconditional love, my sweet Guy. You filled my life in ways you’ll never know."
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Meghan Markle's Actual Kitchen Isn't Featured in Her Netflix Show—Here's What We Know About Her Real Home
The Sussexes seem to favor a muted color scheme.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Prince William Is the "Ultimate Nepo Baby," According to Spice Girl Mel B's Daughter Phoenix
"There's been rising anger in recent years—almost to the point of obsession on social media."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Why Prince Andrew Has Been Reported to the Police Over a Fake Name and Business Venture
Get ready to meet the royal's alter ego, "Andrew Inverness."
By Amy Mackelden Published