Who’s Going To Be Meghan Markle’s Maid Of Honor?
As the royal wedding draws nearer, more details are spilling out about the big day. Speculation remains rife over Meghan Markle's maid of honor.
Choosing The Best Candidate
A few candidates are in the running for the all-important role, but the royal-to-be has yet to confirm who has the job.
The maid of honor isn't a part of the typical British wedding tradition. Considering that Kate Middleton had scene-stealing sister Pippa next to her on her big day back in 2011, it's safe to assume Markle will follow suit.
Rumors are rife that she'll follow the American tradition and choose a friend or family member to accompany her down the aisle. British bridal designer and source for all things related to the royal wedding, Caroline Castigliano, reckons it'll be someone who's been there for her since the beginning.
"[Markle will choose] somebody who's been part of her life and her journey so far," she advised.
Who's In The Running?
Kate Middleton is not in the running, but there are a few other women who might be. First up is Jessica Mulroney, Markle's stylist and close friend, who is reportedly instrumental in the wedding planning thus far.
"Meghan adores Jessica, not just as a friend, but also as someone whose taste and style are impeccable," a source revealed.
The two women have been friends ever since Markle moved to Toronto back in 2011. They even attended the 2017 Invictus Games together.
Another possibility is superstar tennis player Serena Williams, whom Markle is openly very fond of, gushing on her personal blog that the two hit it off immediately upon their first meeting. She described her as someone she could always rely on, which is the ideal description for a maid of honor.
Markle was at Williams's matches at the U.S. Open and Wimbledon, alongside Kate and Pippa Middleton. However, Markle did not attend the tennis legend's 2017 wedding, likely because she was busy getting engaged herself.
Taking Herself Out Of The Race
Priyanka Chopra, who met Markle years ago at an event while she was still a Suits regular, is a possible contender who might have just taken herself out of the running.
Although the two women are close friends who initially bonded over their humanitarian work, Chopra revealed in an interview earlier this week that she's definitely not a bridesmaid.
She's still excited to be part of the big day, however, and she didn't rule out being made of honor so there may still be hope.
"I'm super excited about her and her big day. It's not just going to be life-changing for both of them, it's life-changing for the world that needs to see strong women as icons, and I think Meghan has the potential to be that," she gushed to PEOPLE.
Markle's former Suits co-stars are also top contenders for the maid-of-honor position. Sarah Rafferty and Gina Torres are both long-time friends, and they've known Markle for more than eight years total.
An Easy Choice For Harry
The bride-to-be might have her pick of the best women around, but for husband-to-be Prince Harry, there was only one man in mind -his brother, Prince William.
The 33-year-old royal reportedly got down on one knee to pop the question to his older brother, 35. Harry was also best man to William back in 2011, so it's only fair.
Although Prince William was obviously thrilled to be asked, he's most looking forward to the toast he'll be giving on the big day.
"Revenge is sweet," he teased.
The royal wedding is set to take place May 19 at St. George's Chapel. Markle and Prince Harry are getting the public involved, but have yet to reveal how.
