Both William and Kate and Harry and Meghan announced their engagements in November – the former in 2010, the latter in 2017 – and both made my Christmas dreams come true both years by releasing engagement photos in December. William and Kate released two, as did Harry and Meghan; then, citing an outpouring of love they were grateful for, Harry and Meghan released a surprise third shot later.
William and Kate’s photos were shot by famed photographer Mario Testino, chosen because he was Princess Diana’s absolute favorite. Both shots were taken inside St. James’ Palace in London, where William grew up with Harry and his dad, Prince Charles. One shot is formal, the other more informal; for the formal shot, William wore a Turnbull and Asser suit, and Kate wore a white Reiss dress. The informal shot featured both wearing jeans; Kate paired her denim with a white blouse from Whistles.
Harry and Meghan were shot by Alexi Lubomirski, who hails from Botswana, a country very near and dear to the couple’s heart, as it is where they fell in love. (Have you ever noticed that everything Royals do is so thoughtful and for a reason? I love that.) The couple went outdoors on the grounds of Frogmore House in Windsor for their shoot – coincidentally, this property is where they now make their home as a family of three. Presumably because it was freezing outside in Windsor in December, in one shot, Harry wears a Burberry coat and wraps he and Meghan up in it. In two of the shots, Meghan stuns in a sheer, full-length Ralph & Russo dress with gold embellishment detailing. In the other, she is in white Victoria Beckham.
Both couples look in love and beautiful, and I am thankful we forever have these shots to remember their engagements.
