European royals? They’re a tight-knit bunch. Maybe it’s because not just any rich and beautiful person can understand the undue burden of holding such a title, or because there are only so many people who yacht in St. Tropez or ski at St. Moritz. Maybe it’s because, seriously, they’re like all related (the incest problem was real, people). But whatever the reason, the continent’s crown crews came out for the wedding of Prince Philip of Serbia and Danica Marinkovic this weekend.
Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden was the maid of honor. Prince Peter of Serbia, the groom’s brother, was the best man. Her Majesty Queen Sofía of Spain, Her Royal Highness Princess Maria da Gloria, the Duke and Duchess of Sergobe, Prince Guillaume and Princess Sibilla of Luxembourg were just some of the other blue-blooded guests in attendance. (Unfortunately, no one from the British royal family went—although Prince Philip’s father, Crown Prince Alexander, counts Queen Elizabeth as his godmother.)
The ceremony took place at the Saborna Church in Belgrade. The bride, a graphic designer, wore a billowing dress by designer Roksanda Ilinic (and, at one point, a plush red crown).
The reception took place at the Royal Palace, the Serbian-Byzantine style residence of the Crown Prince and his family. Afterwards guests had dinner at another grand home on the compound, the White Palace. That’s right, not one but two palaces were involved in the wedding—take that, Will and Kate.
During dinner, Prince Philip gave a touching address. “Danica and I thank you all for being with us on the most beautiful day of our lives so far. We are so happy to share the joy of this moment with you. We thank our parents for organizing this magnificent celebration for us here at the White Palace. And above all, thank you Dana for all your love and making for making me the happiest man in the world,” he said.
Now, unlike other European royal families, the Serbian monarchs don’t hold much real (or ceremonial) powers. Dethroned in WWII by the communists, the family lived in exile in the United States in London until 2000, when they were allowed back in the country. Although they live in palaces in the country’s capital, the monarchy still isn’t restored.
But that reportedly didn’t stop from hundreds of well-wishers from cheering on their abolished prince’s wedding. Now, let’s hope this isn’t the only royal wedding we see within the year (cough, cough, Harry and Meghan.)
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