When Prince Harry tied the knot with Meghan Markle, a body language expert noticed Sophie Wessex's somber expression and overall demeanor.
In his autobiography “Spare,” Prince Harry reflected on his own wedding to Meghan as well as Prince William's marriage to Kate Middleton.
As the royal weddings once again grabbed headlines, an expert delved into video footage and images from Harry and Meghan's big day, focusing particularly on Sophie Wessex, the wife of Prince Edward.
Here is a closer look at the observations made by the expert as the royals gathered at St. George's Chapel.
The relationship between Sophie Wessex and Meghan Markle remains a mystery.
While Meghan's interactions with other members of the royal family have been extensively covered, Sophie, Countess of Wessex, has often flown under the radar in media circles and was not mentioned in Harry's memoir.
According to Giles Brandreth's book “Elizabeth: An Intimate Portrait,” the late queen supposedly advised Sophie to guide and educate Meghan from early on about the ways of the royal family.
However, Meghan reportedly declined the offer, asserting that she did not require Sophie's assistance as Harry was there for her.
Whether a bond ever formed between the two women after this incident remains unknown.
During Harry and Meghan's wedding ceremony at the church, Sophie's demeanor and facial expressions were scrutinized by body language expert Judy James.
James noted that Sophie, along with Princess Anne and Camilla Parker-Bowles, appeared somewhat subdued in the group photo.
Sophie, known for her effervescent personality, seemed unusually serious and stern during significant moments of the wedding, leaving James taken aback by her behavior.
In contrast, other royals present that day displayed more positive emotions, with Kate exuding energy and joy, Princess Beatrice appearing upbeat, and Charles looking every bit the proud father.
Looking ahead to King Charles' coronation service, experts anticipate that subtle messages about his reign and priorities will be conveyed.
Dr. George Gross, a visiting research fellow in theology at King's College London, suggested that King Charles might draw inspiration from Princess Diana's approach to include symbolic gestures reflecting his environmental advocacy during the ceremony.
Dr.
Gross emphasized that coronations historically serve as platforms to communicate messages to the nation, whether signaling continuity or the dawn of a new era.
Just as Kate and William integrated elements of their cherished countryside into their wedding, Dr.
Gross proposed incorporating this theme into King Charles' coronation to convey his stance on environmental issues.
Reflecting on Queen Elizabeth II's coronation, which marked the end of rationing and the post-World War II era, the timing and symbols embedded in King Charles' coronation are expected to echo his vision for his reign.
As preparations unfold for the historic event, observers speculate on how King Charles will use traditional rituals to project his priorities and values to the nation.
With a focus on environmental advocacy and a nod to continuity and change, King Charles aims to make a statement through his coronation service that resonates with the challenges of the modern world.
