Yahoo News Harry and Meghan's royal wedding day: Best moments, pictures and talking points
FOLLOW OUR NEW LIVEBLOG FOR THE ROYAL WEDDING OF PRINCE HARRY AND MEGHAN MARKLE
Royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle
Schedule: Ceremony starts at midday; procession at 1pm
Prince Charles to walk Meghan down aisle in place of father
600 guests to attend service in St George's Chapel, Windsor
Who is on the guest list: Full details of who will be attending
Gallery: The royals, the guests, the public - the best pictures
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are preparing to marry in a ceremony that will be watched by hundreds of millions of people around the world.
The couple - the new Duke and Duchess of Sussex - will wed from noon at St George's Chapel in Windsor Castle before travelling through the town in an open-topped carriage.
At about 11.20am, Ms Markle left the Cliveden House Hotel in a vintage Rolls-Royce limousine to travel to Windsor. She was wearing a white veil and white dress with a boat neck. Then at shortly after 11.35am, Prince Harry and his best man the Duke of Cambridge arrived - both wore the frockcoat uniform of the Blues and Royals.
A host of celebrities including Oprah Winfrey, George Clooney and David Beckham are among the 600 invited guests alongside senior members of the Royal family. Another 2,640 members of the public have been chosen to watch the ceremony from the grounds of Windsor Castle.
The Prince of Wales is stepping in for the father of the bride, as he prepares to walk Ms Markle down the aisle. Ms Markle will not promise to "obey" her husband, who has chosen to wear a wedding ring - unlike his brother.
After arriving with her mother, Doria Ragland, Ms Markle will walk up the Nave of St George's Chapel - the first part of the church - on her own in front of a global television audience of millions.
She will be followed by her six bridesmaids and four pageboys including Prince George and Princess Charlotte. Ms Markle will then be accompanied by Charles through the Quire, which begins in the middle of the chapel. However, the ceremony will omit the traditional moment of "giving away".
Huge crowds have gathered in Windsor, with hundreds of die-hard royalists - many decked out in the national colours of both Britain and the United States - camping out overnight to secure the best views.
Stay with us for the latest updates throughout the day.
And here she is! Meghan arrives at Chapel's west steps
Here comes the bride! Meghan Markle has arrived at the Chapel's West Steps by car. She will now walk through the Nave on her own followed by her bridesmaids and pageboys, who include Princess Charlotte and Prince George, before being accompanied by Charles down the aisle of the Quire.
The Queen arrives - and she's in lime-green
The Queen has arrived at St George's Chapel with the Duke of Edinburgh - and the monarch is wearing a lime-green dress by Stewart Parvin.
Following protocol, the Queen is the last member of the Royal family to arrive for the wedding service.
Those in the Quire stand as Her Majesty is conducted to her place in the Quire. A fanfare sounds and all stand as the choir and clergy move in procession to the Quire.
Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall arrive
Prince Charles, who will walk Ms Markle down the aisle, has arrived with his wife, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.
Meanwhile, Prince Harry has taken his place in St George's Chapel, sitting with his brother the Duke of Cambridge. The pair sat on chairs at the top of the altar.
At one point, Harry turned to talk to guests, and let out a sigh as he waited for his royal bride to arrive.
Meghan's mother Doria arrives at chapel
Ms Markle's mother Doria Ragland arrives at the Galilee Porch and is received by the Dean of Windsor.
Huge crowds as Meghan's car arrives in Windsor
Huge crowds lined the Long Walk to Windsor Castle as the Rolls-Royce made its way escorted by three Range Rovers.
Well-wishers cheered and waved flags as the car passed, before making its way through the gates on its way to the chapel.
Fifteen minutes until ceremony starts: The music inside the chapel
With just 15 minutes until the bride arrives, here's what music is being played inside St George's Chapel. A folky/antique theme dominates in this sequence of pieces.
EDWARD ELGAR SALUT D’AMOUR
Elgar’s first published piece. Originally written in 1888 as a gift for his future wife Carice. He sold the rights to the publisher for two guineas, which was a really bad move. It became massively popular and could have earned him a fortune.
GUSTAV HOLST: ST PAUL’S SUITE, 4 TH MOVT
Holst taught at St Paul’s School for Girls and composed this in 1912 for the school orchestra. This movement based on 16 th century English ballad
SIR CHARLES HUBERT HASTINGS PARRY movts 2,3,5
Parry, a leading light of the so-called ‘English Renaissance’ who was the first director of the Royal College of Music in 1883. He wrote his Lady Radnor’s suite in 1894 for the all-women orchestra conducted by Helen, Countess of Radnor. It’s a kind of Baroque Suite in Victorian dress.
PETER WARLOCK: CAPRIOL SUITE
Set of dances based on a book of Renaissance dances composed by Peter Warlock (gifted composer who died in 1930 aged 36).
RALPH VAUGHAN WILLIAMS: FANTASIA ON GREENSLEEVES
Vaughan Williams was a collector of folk-song, and wrote many pieces based on the songs he found. This one is especially beloved, it’s always in Classic FM’s Hall of Fame. More famous and well-known than the tune it’s based on.
ELGAR SERENADE FOR STRINGS
Elgar’s first really successful work, completed in 1893. It remained one of his favourite works right to the end of his life. He liked it because it was ‘really stringy’ – weird phrase but a musician knows What he means – it completely suits a string orchestra, you couldn’t arrange it for something else.
ELGAR CHANSON DE MATIN
In his early days, Elgar was always complaining about having no money, and wrote this delicious piece in 1899 as a deliberate money-spinner for his publisher Novello. It worked.
She's on her way: First pictures of Meghan heading to Windsor with her mother
Crowds greet Prince Harry with loud cheers
Harry looked relaxed as he walked down to the chapel with his brother, the Duke of Cambridge, to loud cheers from the waiting crowd.
The pair smiled and waved to well-wishers during the short walk.
Prince Harry and William arrive - and they're both wearing Blues and Royals frockcoat uniform
Prince Harry and his best man the Duke of Cambridge have arrived at St George's Chapel, in Windsor Castle, for his wedding to Meghan Markle.
Both Harry and the Duke of Cambridge are wearing the frockcoat uniform of the Blues and Royals.
The Queen gave her permission for her grandson to get married in his uniform, Kensington Palace said.
Both uniforms were tailored at Dege & Skinner on Savile Row.
Here comes the bride: Meghan Markle leaves hotel
Meghan Markle has left the Cliveden House Hotel in a vintage Rolls-Royce limousine to travel to Windsor Castle for her wedding to Prince Harry.
Ms Markle sat in the rear of the Phantom IV car with mother, Doria Ragland.
Wearing a white veil and white dress with a boat neck, she waved to onlookers as the car departed at 11.19am.
The Duchess of Cambridge used the same model for her trip to Westminster Abbey for her wedding in 2011.
Members of the Royal family start to arrive
Members of the royal family have begun to arrive and enter via the Galilee Porch, some on foot and others by car.
They included the Duke and Duchess of Kent and Princess Anne, the Princess Royal.
Just under an hour to go: St George's Chapel is filling up
It is just under an hour until the wedding service begins. In about 15 minutes, we are expecting to first catch a glimpse of members of the Royal family.
The pews are filling up inside St George's Chapel as people mill around and catch up with their fellow guests. Here's what we can expect to happen:
Serena Williams and Meghan's Suits co-stars
Tennis champion Serena Williams has arrived with her husband Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit, at St George's Chapel.
Meanwhile, among those providing the wedding with an injection of Hollywood glamour are the cast of Suits, writes Ed Power.
The stars of the legal drama in which Markle achieved fame as plucky litigator Rachel Zane have been arriving in the UK all week and celebrated a “last supper” in their former colleague’s honour at a restaurant near Windsor Friday night.
Patrick J Adams, who plays Markle's onscreen love interest (and lately husband) Mike Ross, is attending the knot-tying today, along with co-stars Gabriel Macht, Sarah Rafferty, Rick Hoffman, Abigail Spencer, Gina Torres and Amanda Schull.
Sir Elton John and David Furnish arrive
Sir Elton John, who has arrived for the ceremony with husband David Furnish, was seen warmly embracing David and Victoria Beckham, as well as singer James Blunt.
Hundreds of 'golden ticket' holders gather outside chapel
Throughout the morning, hundreds of members of the public gathered on the grass alongside St George’s Chapel, reports Victoria Ward.
Dressed in their finery, they laid out picnic rugs and folding chairs and settled down to watch the only show in town.
From their ringside seats, the crowds, some 1,200 of whom had been invited in recognition of the work they have done for their communities, watched the steady stream of guests arrive at the chapel.
Penned in behind rope but just a stone’s throw away, they grew increasingly animated as people began to arrive, walking right past them, the length of the chapel from the Round Tower to the Galilee Porch.
Many waved flags and cheered as familiar faces walked by, including Idris Elba and Oprah Winfrey.
“Oh there goes James Blunt, and James Blunt wants everyone to make sure they’ve seen James Blunt,” laughed one, as the singer paused to wave to the spectators.
To the sound of champagne corks popping and cameras clicking, the crowd, basking in the sun, provided a jovial running commentary on the guests’ outfits.
Many stood to watch the steady procession while others simply sat and soaked up the atmosphere, reading newspapers and sipping prosecco.
A few dipped into their “goody bags” - canvas bags inscribed with Harry and Meghan’s initials and packed with branded chocolate, shortbread, a magnet, a bottle of Windsor Castle water and a wedding programme, not to mention a voucher for 20 per cent off in the castle shop.
On occasion, the crowd fell silent as they studiously watched the procession, trying to identify well-known faces and admiring the colourful parade.
“Try and get to know your neighbours really well,” a member of staff yelled at them. “Make friends, sit tight, enjoy yourselves."
Tom Hardy and Jonny Wilkinson among other VIP guests
Actor Tom Hardy and former rugby union player Jonny Wilkinson are among the other guests to arrive at St George's Chapel. Others include musician Marcus Mumford, actress Carey Mulligan and singer Joss Stone.
The Clooneys and the Beckhams lead A-listers in Windsor
Actor George Clooney and his barrister wife Amal have arrived at St George's Chapel, followed closely by David and Victoria Beckham.
Here come the Middletons! Parents, James and Pippa arrive
The Duchess of Cambridge's family, including her parents Michael and Carole, brother James and sister Pippa, have arrived at St George's Chapel for the royal wedding.
Pippa is wearing a Hepburn dress by British brand The Fold - made of pure Italian silk, it is patterned with a delicate floral print inspired by chinoiserie.
Chelsy Davy: Prince Harry's ex-girlfriend
Prince Harry's former girlfriend Chelsy Davy has arrived at St George's Chapel.
Prince Harry's mentor, former Welsh Guards officer Mark Dyer, has also arrived ready to take his seat.
Diana's bridesmaid: Young page boys and bridesmaids mean there is 'high risk' of things not going to plan
India Hicks, who was asked to be one of Princess Diana's bridesmaids by her godfather Prince Charles, told ITV: “The whole day will be very very precise” but there will be some "chaos".
She said that all weddings have the "normal headaches", adding that with young pageboys and bridesmaids "there is high risk" of things not going exactly to plan.
Meghan Markle's bridesmaids and page boys
Here's a look at the bridemaids and page boys chosen by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle:
Princess Charlotte of Cambridge
The middle child and only daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge has made a name for herself for her royal confidence despite being just three years old. It was Charlotte - Harry's niece - who led the way into the Lindo Wing to meet new baby brother Prince Louis, giving a regal wave as she went. Her parents have told how the fourth in line to the throne rules the roost, saying she is "very sweet" but also feisty.
Florence van Cutsem
Three-year-old Florence is Prince Harry's goddaughter, and the daughter of his long-standing family friend Major Nicholas van Cutsem and Alice van Cutsem. Major van Cutsem, a major with the Household Cavalry's Life Guards, has been a friend of Harry and William's since childhood.
Remi Litt
Remi Litt is the six-year-old daughter of Ms Markle's close friend Benita Litt and her husband Darren Litt.Ms Markle is Remi's godmother and in a since deleted Instagram post, the actress shared a picture of herself with the family - including her two "fairy god-daughters" - showing them happily posing in front of a Christmas tree after spending the holidays together in 2016. Benita runs her own brand agency under her name where she helps others to start businesses.
Rylan Litt
Ms Markle's other goddaughter is seven years old and Benita Litt's oldest child.
Ivy Mulroney
Ivy is the four-year-old youngest child of Meghan's stylist and best friend Jessica Mulroney. The youngster's name is actually Isabel Veronica but she is nicknamed Ivy. Jessica Mulroney runs a bridal store in Toronto, where Meghan used to film Suits, and is said to have helped the bride choose her wedding gown. She is married to Ben Mulroney - son of former Canadian prime minister Brian Mulroney.
Zalie Warren
Zalie is the youngest of the bridesmaids at just two years old. She is another of Harry's goddaughters and the daughter of one of his best friends, Jake Warren and Mr Warren's wife Zoe. The Warren family are closely connected to the royals through horse-racing. Jake's father John Warren is the Queen's racing manager. The father-and-son team run Highclere Stud in Newbury together.
Prince George of Cambridge
Prince George, who is four, is third in line to the throne and a future king. William and Kate's eldest child is said to be shyer than his younger sister Charlotte, and the duke has told how his son loves helicopters, flying and is obsessed with all things police-related. Like Charlotte, George is rarely seen in public. The duke and duchess try to ensure their children are protected from media intrusion. But the pair have appeared at key royal events such as the annual Trooping the Colour parade, and have joined William and Kate on official overseas tours.
Jasper Dyer
Six-year-old Jasper Dyer is also a godson of Harry's and the son of his trusted mentor Mark Dyer and Mr Dyer's wife Amanda. Former Welsh Guards office Mr Dyer has been a key father figure to the prince since childhood. A former equerry to the Prince of Wales, he was entrusted by Charles to keep an eye on Harry. The pair travelled together in Harry's gap year and he inspired the prince's charity work in Lesotho, southern Africa, after arranging Harry's first ever stay in the country.
Brian and John Mulroney
The fraternal twin sons of Jessica and Ben Mulroney are seven years old - and older siblings to Ivy Mulroney. In an interview in 2014, Mrs Mulroney described how the boys were best friends. "Ben was at the MMVAs (iHeartRadio Much Music Video Awards) and John did something really sweet," she said. "He hugged Brian from behind and said, 'Brian, you make me great'. " The article described the children, who had two nannies, as "incredibly well-behaved".
Wedding rings will be made of platinum and Welsh gold
Prince Harry's wedding ring will be a platinum band with a textured finish and Meghan Markle's ring has been fashioned from a piece of Welsh gold, Kensington Palace announced. The rings will be made by Cleave and Company.
A traditional ceremony that will give way to striking modernity
When Meghan Markle enters St George’s Chapel to begin the last steps of her journey to join the Royal family, the state trumpeters will sound a fanfare that has accompanied its brides for generations, writes Hannah Furness.
Before long, as she says her vows to Prince Harry, that tradition will give way to striking modernity, with the soaring voices of a gospel choir singing music from Ben E King and Etta James, and the sound of a civil rights anthem.
Today’s wedding ceremony, with each detail chosen by the couple, will blend best-loved elements of British pageantry with a modern outlook so reflective of the Prince and Ms Markle, whose service is designed to capture the best of their combined heritage.
From the music of Sir Charles Hubert Parry and a Bible reading to a procession of the newlyweds accompanied by This Little Light of Mine, their choices go to the heart of their relationship: English customs blended with an American influence, offset by an overriding message of joy.
Oprah Winfrey, Idris Elba and Earl Spencer: Guests start to arrive
Guests including Oprah Winfrey, actor Idris Elba and Earl Spencer, the brother of Diana, Princess of Wales, are among the guests who have arrived at St George's Chapel.
According to a list of the hats designed by milliner Philip Treacy, Winfrey is wearing a natural sweeping brimmed hat with artisan sculpted flower.
A host of other celebrities are expected to attend the star-studded ceremony. Click here for more today's guest list.
Theresa May sends her 'best wishes' to couple
The official 10 Downing Street Twitter account posted a message to the couple from Theresa May, saying:
My very best wishes to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on their wedding day. To all of those joining the national celebration with street parties and other events, have a wonderful day. #RoyalWedding
— Theresa May (@theresa_may) May 19, 2018
After royal wedding... it's the FA Cup final!
Royal wedding fever is mounting, but it is not the only big event of the day - it is also FA Cup final day.
Prince William, president of the Football Association, is missing the FA Cup final in favour of the wedding celebrations.
Click here to find everything you need to know about the FA Cup final between Manchester United and Chelsea.
Not long now until they walk down the aisle. A marriage made in heaven. The world will be watching. Not everyone is invited to the event itself, of course, but you’ll get the next best seats. Join us for the Romance of the FA Cup. Chelsea v Manchester United on @BBCOne at 16.10.
— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) May 19, 2018
Guests due to start arriving at St George's chapel soon
Wedding guests queued in their vehicles outside the gates to the Windsor Farm Shop from early morning, reports Patrick Sawer.
From the farm shop’s car park they will be ferried by coach to St George’s Chapel for the wedding service.
The queue stretched back along the perimeter wall of Windsor Great Park and across the River Thames, with each car admitted into the shop’s car park only after police had carefully checked the occupants’ invites and identification.
Excited guests could be seen laughing and giggling inside their vehicles, anticipating the day ahead. VIP guests were being filtered to the front of the long queue of vehicles for fast track admittance.
Meanwhile, Prince Harry is on his way to Windsor.
Video: Groom heads for Windsor
Mood in Windsor grows more festive as chill gives way to sunshine
As the morning chill gave way to sunshine, the mood in the Windsor crowd grew ever more festive, reports Judith Woods.
Free cardboard crowns and commemorative brochures were handed out and a sea of red white and blue stretched the two-and-a-half mile length of the town’s tree-lined Long Walk.
Food stalls delivered breakfast baps to wellwishers on blankets and the pop of every prosecco cork was met with a cheer.
Castle Hill and Windsor High Street are packed with excited well wishers already, many of whom have camped overnight, or arrived at the crack of dawn to get a spot, reports Eleanor Steafel in Windsor.
Jules Arrowsmith, 58, has been in Windsor since 4am. Mrs Arrowsmith, from Cheshire, said this was the first royal wedding she has come out to watch.
“It’s been on my bucket list for ages. I wanted to come and see one while I still can. And I love Meghan and Harry. I can’t wait to see what Meghan is going to wear, but she looks beautiful in everything.”
Daniel Zhang, who is turning 21 today, has travelled all the way from China to be here today.
“I travelled 16,927 kilometres to be here. I got here this morning around 7am. I’m most looking forward to seeing the Queen. She is such an amazing symbol, I can’t wait to see her.”
Laury Lesueurs, 21, from Auvergne, France, said she had always loved the royal family and didn’t want to miss out on the chance to see Meghan and Harry go past in their carriage. “Since I was little I’ve been obsessed with the royal family and England.
“I’m so excited to see Meghan and Harry. I can’t wait to see her dress, it’s going to be amazing.”
John Budge, 67, has been invited to come and watch the wedding from inside the castle for his long service to the RNLI in Orkney.
He said: “I’ve been a volunteer for the RNLI for 50 years so the lord lieutenant asked if I wanted to come to Windsor to watch the wedding. It’s a real honour.”
Mr Budge, who now works as the operations manager at Longhope lifeboat station, brought his daughter Helen with him.
Helen, 30, said: “It’s such a privilege to be here. I’m very proud of my dad, and so excited to watch the wedding. It’s just such a special day.”
Macey Kurtz, 24, has come all the way from Texas where she works as a wedding photographer. She said: “I go to weddings all the time so I had to come to the royal wedding! We got here on Wednesday so we could be here for all the build up.”
Her mother Leslie, 48, said: “We wanted to come and support Meghan and be part of their special day. We’re so excited to see them come past!”
'Strangers not only made eye contact, they chatted animatedly': On board the first train to Windsor
There was something distinctly unusual about the 05.18 train from Paddington this morning, reports Judith Woods.
The fancy frocks, the Union flags, and the air of excited merriment set the service to Windsor & Eton Central apart.
Strangers not only made eye contact, they chatted animatedly, someone whistled a wedding march and there was talk of nothing but Harry and Meghan’s nuptials.
“I’ve been up since midnight,” said Laurie Walls, 33, a bookseller and librarian from Indiana, who took two weeks off work to travel to Britain for the wedding.
“I was too hyped up to sleep. I’ve always been fascinated by the royals and ever since I watched William and Harry at Diana’s funeral I’ve followed them avidly from afar.”
Imperial College student Max Botheras, 24, described his trek to Windsor as “participating in history”. Meghan, he felt, was a wonderful addition to the royal family.
“My partner is a black person and it’s really great seeing someone mixed race join the House of Windsor. Fairytales really do come true.”
For Canadian Charmaine Goodman, 51, from Ottowa, resplendent in smart red day dress and extravagant fascinator, there was no question of missing Harry and Meghan’s big day.
“I was here for Wiliam and Catherine’s wedding so I just had to be here for Harry,” the HR manager said. “I went to Windsor yesterday to do a recce and check out the route of the procession. The festivities are less dispersed than London, Windsor has a cosier feel; we met so many people just when we were walking around.”
Her friend, a teacher from Jamaica, declined to speak as she was pulling a sickie. But who could blame her?
“Today will be the most amazing party on the planet,” asserted Fiona Coulter, 40, from Nottinghamshire, a rolled up Union Jack in her hand.
“Harry is marrying an American - if that’s not reason for a global celebration what is?”
Prosecco at 8am: Party starts early as wedding fever mounts
The royal wedding party's started early for some in Windsor. Mother of four Rachael Carter-Eagleton popped open the prosecco just after 8am.
"I'm just so happy for Harry," said the Londoner, a regular at royal events. "I can't wait to see what Meghan's wearing."
The party’s starting early in Windsor. Mum-of-four Rachael Carter-Eagleton has popped the Prosecco cork pic.twitter.com/a9YWIXnYFt
— Henry Vaughan (@Henry_Vaughan) May 19, 2018
Windsor locals Elizabeth Hughes, 19, Brooke Beldom, 13, and mother Laura, 40, along with Claudia Smith, 21, and mum Leigh, 48, were head-to-toe in red, white and blue for the royal wedding.
Laura said: "We wouldn't have missed it for the world - we're here for the atmosphere."
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex: Couple's titles confirmed
Prince Harry has been made the Duke of Sussex on his wedding day by his grandmother the Queen, Buckingham Palace has announced. Meghan Markle will become the Duchess of Sussex on marriage, the palace said.
Harry was also given Scottish and Northern Irish titles, becoming the Earl of Dumbarton and Baron Kilkeel.
Buckingham Palace said: "The Queen has today been pleased to confer a Dukedom on Prince Henry of Wales.
"His titles will be Duke of Sussex, Earl of Dumbarton and Baron Kilkeel. Prince Harry thus becomes His Royal Highness The Duke of Sussex, and Ms Meghan Markle on marriage will become Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Sussex."
First look at the flowers inside St George's Chapel
St George's Chapel has been adorned with floral displays ahead of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle tying the knot.
The first pictures from inside the historic building show foliage, white peonies, white garden roses and other white blooms adorning the front of the organ loft, towering above the seats.
A central arch will serve to frame the royal couple as a congregation of family, friends and well-wishers watch them take their vows.
Two large arrangements also sit either side of the High Altar in the Windsor Castle chapel.
The display, which also features foxgloves with branches of beech, birch and hornbeam, also extends to outside the chapel, lining the West Steps and surrounding the West Door through which Meghan will enter the church.
The display has been carefully crafted by floral designer Philippa Craddock.
Video: St George's Chapel adorned with flowers
Serena Williams 'getting ready for my friend's wedding'
Tennis player Serena Williams appeared to confirm her attendance in Windsor as she tweeted that she was "getting ready for my friend's wedding", and told people to keep an eye on her Instagram story for updates.
Check out my IG stories today. I’m getting ready for my friends wedding pic.twitter.com/Y3Xy1JdhM6
— Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) May 19, 2018
'All aboard the royal wedding special': Standing room only on trains to Windsor
Royal wedding revellers were buzzing with excitement as they arrived in Windsor on the first trains.
It was standing room only on services from Slough where the station had made spectators feel welcome with a sign celebrating the nuptials.
The dot matrix board said: "All aboard the royal wedding special to Harry & Meghan Central."
Many of the voices chatting excitedly on the trains had American accents, including Christine Clancy from Virginia.
Her thumbnails were painted with the Union flag and she sported the British flag on her shoes.
Ms Clancy said: "I've always been a royal fan - not an extreme one - I just love British history and love the royals. I just wanted to be part of the wedding celebration.
"It would have been nice if Meghan's dad was walking here down the aisle, everyone was expecting her mum to do it, but Charles - he'll be able to do it with his eyes closed."
Thousands of visitors join royal superfans camped out for days
Visitors are pouring into the town of Windsor, where excitement is building ahead of the royal wedding.
Some superfans have been camped out for days to secure their spots to see Harry and Meghan's carriage pass.
John Loughrey, 63, from Streatham in London, has been in position for four days at what he's dubbed "crazy corner" - the junction of High Street and Castle Hill.
"This is a very special day today for Prince Harry and Meghan, going into St George's Chapel and Prince Charles will walk Meghan down the aisle," he said.
"We want the carriage to slow down when it comes around this bend to see the wedding dress and wedding ring and Prince Harry and Meghan smiling at the world. We are going to have one big party in Windsor and around the world."
Video: Meet the royal superfans in Windsor
Seasoned royal-watcher Terry Hutt, 83, spoke of the romance of the occasion.
"What makes this a special wedding is that they have gone out and met each other and fallen in love, and that's quite natural," he said.
"They broke all the rules and they are actually bringing the royal family forward. I think we're all going to be happy with the result. If his mother was alive, she would be too. She left something of herself behind and it was the two lads."
'We want to be a part of history': Early risers head to Windsor
Early risers are making their way to Windsor to bag a prime spot for the royal wedding.
Passengers on the first train out of London Waterloo included four women who work as cabin crew for a Canadian airline.
A very keen crowd for the 5:05 to Windsor today! #RoyalWedding#swlroyalweddingpic.twitter.com/rsUCJozQrK
— Jake (@JJFoxford) May 19, 2018
They joked they had won the "golden ticket" by being in London on layover on Harry and Meghan's big day.
"It's a once in a lifetime opportunity. We are sending our love from Canada," Cara Bonhage said. "It's going to be really exciting."
Her and friends, Deb Penman, Marlene Diggens and Nancy Botelho said they plan to stand at the end of the parade route to catch a glimpse of the couple as they pass in their open-topped carriage.
"We want to be part of history," Ms Botelho added.
Video: Royal wedding fever begins to hit Windsor
Irene Bowdry, a lawyer from California, was on the 5.50am train from Waterloo to Windsor with four friends from the US.
She said: "My mum actually lives around the corner from Meghan's mum in View Park in Los Angeles.
"We booked as soon as it was announced. An American in the royal family, isn't that so exciting?"
Also on board was German surgeon Ralph Dubitscher, who said he came because "it's the last chance to get a royal wedding for, what, 30 years?".
Order of service revealed: British pageantry, soul music and gospel
When Meghan Markle enters St George’s Chapel to begin the last steps in her journey to join the Royal family, the state trumpeters will sound a fanfare that has accompanied its brides for generations, reports The Telegraph's Royal Correspondent Hannah Furness.
Before long, as she says her vows to Prince Harry, that time-honoured tradition will give way to striking modernity, with the soaring voices of a gospel choir singing music from Ben E King and Etta James.
Saturday's Royal wedding ceremony, with each detail chosen by the couple, will blend the best-loved elements of British pageantry with a modern outlook that reflects the Prince and Ms Markle, in a service designed to capture the best of each of their heritage.
From the music of Sir Charles Hubert Parry and a reading from the Bible to a procession of a newlyweds accompanied by a rendition of This Little Light of Mine, their choices go to the heart of their relationship: English customs blended with an American influence, offset by an overriding message of joy.
Most of the ceremony will see the Prince and Ms Markle referred to simply as “Harry and Meghan”, eschewing the full repetition of their names: Prince Henry Charles Albert David and Rachel Meghan Markle.
The decision will ensure neither endures the test faced by the Prince’s parents, where the then Lady Diana Spencer muddled her words to get Prince Charles’ middle names the wrong way around.
Hymns will also honour the Prince’s mother, with Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer, otherwise known as Bread of Heaven, remembered both for being played at her funeral and as a Welsh rugby anthem sung regularly by Prince Harry.
As the service continues, A gospel choir will perform Ben E King’s Stand By Me, later followed by Etta James' uplifting version of Amen/This Little Light of Mine - a joyous childhood favourite. Click here to read the full story.
The key timings
Here are the timings of the main events on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's wedding day:
09.00 - Members of the public who have been invited to watch the wedding day from the grounds of Windsor Castle begin to arrive.
09.30-11.00 - Wedding guests arrive at the Castle's famous Round Tower by coach and enter the chapel through the South Door and take their seats.
11.20 - Members of the royal family begin to arrive and enter via the Galilee Porch, some on foot and others by car.
11.40 - Harry and best man the Duke of Cambridge arrive at the chapel's west door, received by the Dean of Windsor. They will probably arrive on foot, walking past the thousands of spectators invited into the grounds of the castle. The moment will give Harry the chance to acknowledge the 200 representatives from charities he is associated with gathered in the Horseshoe Cloister at the bottom of the steps.
11.42 - Ms Markle's mother Doria Ragland arrives at the Galilee Porch and is received by the Dean of Windsor.
11.45 - The Prince of Wales arrives at the Galilee Porch.
11.52 - Following protocol, the Queen will be the last member of the royal family to arrive for the wedding service.
11.59 - Ms Markle arrives at the Chapel's West Steps by car, from her overnight accommodation at the Cliveden House Hotel in Taplow, Berkshire. Ms Markle will walk through the Nave on her own followed by her bridesmaids and pageboys who include Princess Charlotte and Prince George, before being accompanied by Charles down the aisle of the Quire.
12.00 - Service begins.
13.00 - Service ends and the newlyweds emerge at the West Steps of the Chapel. They will be waved off on their carriage procession through Windsor by members of both families. The congregation will file out of the chapel to see the married couple leave before heading to St George's Hall for a lunchtime reception hosted by the Queen.
13.05 - The carriage procession through the streets of Windsor possibly begins around this time, taking 25 minutes.
19.00 - Bride and groom depart Windsor Castle for the evening reception at Frogmore House, hosted by the Prince of Wales.
Today's the day! World awaits royal wedding
Good morning and welcome to our live coverage of the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
Prince Harry's wedding day has arrived as he prepares to marry his American bride Meghan Markle in a glittering ceremony, watched around the world by millions.
The Queen's grandson, who is sixth in line to the throne, will pledge to love, comfort, honour and protect the former actress as they become husband and wife in the historic surrounds of St George's Chapel in Windsor Castle.
Tens of thousands of royal fans are expected to descend on the Berkshire town to catch a glimpse of the bride and groom, as police effectively create a ring of steel around the castle in a massive security operation.
Weather forecasters are expecting wall-to-wall sunshine, meaning the newlywed couple will be able to ride through Windsor town centre in the open top Ascot landau for their carriage procession.
Some 250 members of the armed forces will take part in the pomp and ceremony of the celebrations, with regiments closely connected to former soldier Prince Harry lining the streets.
Ms Markle will emerge from the hour long televised ceremony, which begins at noon, as an HRH and a member of the British royal family after saying her vows.
Prince Harry is expected to be given a title, most likely a dukedom, by his grandmother the Queen in the morning, meaning Ms Markle would become a duchess on marriage.
A relaxed-looking Prince Harry said he felt "great" as he greeted well-wishers in a surprise walkabout with best man the Duke of Cambridge outside Windsor Castle on Friday evening.
The pair then headed to exclusive Coworth Park country house hotel in Ascot, where the prince was spending his last night as a single man away from his bride as is tradition.
Meanwhile 15 miles away, Ms Markle gave a radiant smile and said she was feeling "wonderful" as she arrived with her mother Doria Ragland at the luxury Cliveden House Hotel in Taplow, Berkshire.
Around 30 members of the royal family including the Queen and the 96-year-old Duke of Edinburgh, who is well enough to attend after undergoing a recent hip operation, will gather in the 600-strong congregation.
The Archbishop of Canterbury, who will marry Prince Harry and Ms Markle, has spoken of the strong bond the couple share.
"There's profound affection between them which is wonderful and a deep understanding and mutual support," he said.
"You see in the way they respond to each other, caring for each other, which is something you see in many couples but not always. But it's very evident and that's wonderful."
As the Order of Service was published on the morning of the wedding, it revealed Prince Harry will wear a ring - not a given for royal men - and Ms Markle will not promise to obey her husband in the vows.
The moving, soul classic Stand By Me by Ben E King will be performed by Karen Gibson and The Kingdom Choir, with the gospel singers also delivering Etta James' uplifting version of Amen/This Little Light of Mine - a favourite in African-American churches.
The presiding bishop of the American Episcopal Church Bishop, Michael Curry will give the address.
Celebrities including Meghan's former Suits co-stars Patrick J. Adams and Gabriel Macht are expected to be among the guests, along with the couple's trusted inner circle of friends.
The Prince of Wales will take on the role of the absent father of the bride Thomas Markle, and walk his future daughter-in-law through the Quire up the altar to meet her groom.
There will be sadness amid the joy for Ms Markle with her father missing her big day.
The reclusive former TV lighting director will be thousands of miles away in Mexico after pulling out of attending on medical advice with just two days to go after undergoing heart surgery.
Prince Harry too will be thinking of his late mother Diana, Princess of Wales, who died in car crash when he was 12.
He has invited her three siblings, Earl Spencer, Lady Sarah McCorquodale and Lady Jane Fellowes, as a way of honouring her. Lady Jane is giving a reading.
Ms Markle will leave her country hotel with her mother to be driven to Windsor Castle, giving the first glimpse of the bride in her wedding gown.
She will walk through the Nave of the stunning chapel on her own, followed by a procession of bridesmaids and pageboys, before meeting Charles at the start of the Quire.
Prince William, whose children Prince George and Princess Charlotte will be among the young helpers, will be supporting his younger brother Harry at the altar.
The Duchess of Cambridge will be there, making her first public appearance since giving birth to her third child Prince Louis less than four weeks ago.
Ms Markle, who found fame played Rachel Zane in the US legal drama Suits, is the first mixed race person in modern history to marry a senior British royal.
Prince Harry, 33, and 36-year-old Ms Markle became engaged following a whirlwind 16-month romance after going on a blind date in London.
The prince has told how "all the stars were aligned" when they met.
"It was this beautiful woman just sort of literally tripped and fell into my life, I fell into her life," he said when their engagement was announced last November.
Ms Markle has been married before. She wed first husband film producer Trevor Engelson in 2011 but the pair divorced less than two years later.
The last time a senior royal wanted to marry an American divorcee, it sparked a constitutional crisis and rocked the British monarchy to the core. King Edward VIII, Prince Harry's great-great-uncle, abdicated over his love for Mrs Wallis Simpson in 1936.
