A new member of the royal family has emerged as a promising ally for the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton. Harriet Sperling is all set to wed Peter Phillips next weekend, and she seems to share many similarities with Kate.
The joyful couple will exchange vows in Kemble, Gloucestershire, on Saturday, June 6, with a host of Peter’s royal relatives, including his mother Princess Anne, uncle King Charles, and cousin Prince William, expected to grace the occasion. The intimate ceremony will take place at All Saints Church. Peter Phillips, 48, is the sibling of Zara Tindall and the offspring of Anne and her former spouse Captain Mark Phillips.
Residing nearby on his mother’s Gatcombe Park estate in Minchinhampton, Mr. Phillips parted ways with his first wife, Autumn, in 2020 after a 12-year marriage. They co-parent their two children, Savannah, 15, and Isla, 14. The duo exchanged vows in a lavish royal wedding at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, in 2008. Mr. Phillips announced his engagement to Ms. Sperling, whom he started dating in 2024, in August last year.
Harriet and Peter were guests of Charles and Camilla at Royal Ascot in June and were privileged to participate in the traditional carriage procession leading the royal family’s entrance to the renowned Berkshire racecourse. Harriet, just one year older than Kate at 45, works as an NHS nurse with a shared interest in fashion, favoring brands like Self Portrait and Beulah, as reported by the Mail.
Notably, Harriet’s fashion choices have influenced trends, as seen when she wore a Dilli Grey dress, prompting the brand to release an updated version due to increased demand. Reports suggest that Kate and Harriet have common interests, particularly in supporting childhood development. Harriet, a trained pediatric nurse, is passionate about early brain development in infants and nurturing thriving children.
In a remarkable event in 2010, Harriet was part of a team that saved the life of a critically ill infant named Phineas, who was struck by a severe virus at just three weeks old. Female allies of Kate’s age within the royal household have become scarce following recent events, making Harriet a significant addition.
Harriet, known for her writing skills and openness about her Christian faith and single motherhood, shared her journey with her daughter, emphasizing the unique bond forged through struggles and victories. Kate, also recognized for her writing, penned an essay on human connection for the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood.
Harriet seems to have seamlessly integrated into The Firm’s circle and was seen enjoying moments with the King at Royal Ascot. She is now a regular attendee at major events such as Cheltenham and Wimbledon.
The engagement of Harriet and Peter Phillips was officially announced in August last year, with both families expressing delight and approval. The guest list for the wedding is anticipated to include Queen Camilla, Prince Edward, Sophie, Princess Anne, Captain Mark Phillips, Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, Zara, Mike Tindall, and their children, among others.
While it remains uncertain if Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis will attend the ceremony with William and Kate, it is unlikely that Sarah Ferguson, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, Prince Harry, and Meghan Markle will be present on the occasion.