It's Official! Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are Engaged
Prince Charles has confirmed their plans to marry
Prince Harry is to marry his American girlfriend Meghan Markle, it has been announced. The happy news was confirmed in a statement by Clarence House, Prince Charles' official residence.
It read: "His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales is delighted to announce the engagement of Prince Harry to Ms. Meghan Markle.
"The wedding will take place in Spring 2018. Further details about the wedding day will be announced in due course.
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"His Royal Highness and Ms. Markle became engaged in London earlier this month. Prince Harry has informed Her Majesty The Queen and other close members of his family. Prince Harry has also sought and received the blessing of Ms. Markle's parents.
"The couple will live in Nottingham Cottage at Kensington Palace."
Markle's parents said they were "incredibly happy" for their daughter in a statement shared by Kensington Palace.
"We wish them a lifetime of happiness and are very excited for their future together," it read.
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Harry confirmed he was dating the American actress, who plays Rachel Zane in legal drama Suits, in November 2016. Markle was previously married to US film and TV producer Trevor Engelson and there has been some debate over whether they would be allowed to marry in Westminster Abbey, where Prince William and Kate Middleton tied the knot in 2011.
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Meghan Markle and Prince Harry at the Invictus Games in September 2017. Photo: Getty
prince harry meghan markle
However, a spokesman for the Abbey has confirmed that their marriage could take place there thanks to a change in ruling. "The Abbey follows the General Synod Ruling of 2002," the spokesperson said in May. "Since then it has been possible for divorced people to be married in the Church of England."
Markle, who grew up in Los Angeles, may also choose to marry in the US. Whether they follow the tradition of a grand royal wedding or not, one thing is for sure. This wedding will be the society event of the year.
This article originally appeared on Harper's BAZAAR UK