Couple Separated During Reception to Honour Bride’s Seating Plan
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were obliged to follow an unusual rule set by Pippa Middleton at her wedding to James Matthews in 2017. Known for her role as the maid of honour at Catherine’s royal wedding to Prince William in 2011, Pippa introduced a unique seating arrangement at her reception that barred couples from sitting together.
This rule applied to all guests, including Harry and Meghan, who were dating at the time but not yet engaged. Harry was seated next to ITV presenter Tom Bradby, while Meghan dined alongside Mirka Federer, wife of tennis star Roger Federer.
In their book Finding Freedom, authors Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand described the experience, writing: “Sitting together in the custom glass marquee that had been erected on the 18-acre property should have been a fun night for the couple, but, per Pippa's request, no couples sat together.”
Although separated during dinner, Harry and Meghan reportedly reunited later near the dance floor to enjoy the evening together.
Interestingly, Meghan did not attend the church ceremony earlier in the day. Reports suggest her absence was due to concerns that the presence of the future Duke and Duchess of Sussex might overshadow Pippa’s special moment.
Pippa and James’ wedding was widely celebrated, with their unconventional touches and strict protocols ensuring the focus remained on the bride and groom.
