A Royal Occasion

Princess Anne's Historic Wedding at Westminster Abbey

A Royal Occasion

Princess Anne, the only daughter of Queen Elizabeth II, married Captain Mark Phillips on November 14, 1973, in a grand ceremony at Westminster Abbey. The event marked the first marriage of any of the Queen's four children.

A Ceremonious Union

Princess Anne and Captain Phillips exchanged vows in front of a global audience of an estimated 500 million television viewers. The ceremony was presided over by the Archbishop of Canterbury and witnessed by a host of notable guests, including royal family members, dignitaries, and celebrities.

The wedding gown, designed by Maureen Baker, was a stunning white silk taffeta gown adorned with intricate lace and embroidery. Princess Anne's bouquet consisted of white orchids, lilies, and myrtle, which symbolizes love and fidelity.

Captain Phillips wore the uniform of the Queen's Dragoon Guards, a cavalry regiment of the British Army. The couple exchanged rings, which were made of Welsh gold and bore the inscription "Anne" and "Mark."

After the ceremony, the newlyweds traveled in an open carriage through the streets of London, escorted by the Household Cavalry. They waved to the cheering crowds before arriving at Buckingham Palace, where a reception was held.

Princess Anne and Captain Phillips were married for 19 years and had two children, Peter Phillips and Zara Tindall. Their divorce in 1992 was a highly publicized event.