Here’s how to host a truly ‘spiffing’ royal wedding party this weekend

Feeling jilted over the fact that you – once again – got snubbed from yet another royal wedding? Us too. But not ones to sulk, we won’t let this major guest list oversight stop us from enjoying the hysteria that comes with a royal wedding. And we encourage you to emulate our dignified stance.

About 24.5 million people watched William and Kate tie the knot back in 2011, and numbers are expected to be even higher for Harry and Meghan. If you don’t want to miss out on the fun and palaver that comes with a royal wedding, and if you have visions of yourself going full Marty Whelan with Eurovision-esque commentary for the whole thing, then how about organising your own wedding viewing party?

We’ve set out all the main things to consider when hosting a top-notch “Marry” party (merge Meghan and Harry and you get Marry. Coincidence? We think not), so that your event is as memorable as the wedding itself – and maybe even more so.

The basics

First things first, you need to be sure to get the timing right. The ceremony takes place on 19th of May at 12 p.m, but obviously, you’ll want to get in early to scrutinise the guests and, more importantly, their outfits.

Next, be sure to have your viewing arrangements in order, whether it be in the form of a tv, a laptop (or indeed a series of laptops in a row, if the crowd is big) or a projector, it’s paramount that all attendees can get a clear view of the show.

Royal spread

Scones and tea are obvious choices, and a bit of bubbly to mark the occasion would be a welcome addition, too. Tiny cucumber sandwiches make for a jolly novelty feature, but it’s important not to forget about Meghan’s American heritage. With this in mind, why not add some tiny peanut butter and jelly sandwiches into the mix? In fact, don’t stop there; pouring the prosecco into those iconic red cups will add a nice twist to the celebrations and is a surefire way to rid your party of any untoward, royally proportioned notions.

Image via teatimemagazine.com

Dress code

There’s no denying that adding a dress code adds an extra bit of fun to the occasion, so it’s worth imploring your friends to follow some sort of theme. Suggestions include “all white”, “fascinators and frocks”, “notions” or “fur coats and fabulous hats”. And if you really want to max-out on the theme, how about buying a couple of these earrings and insist that your guests wear them?

Decoration

Hanging union jack bunting may not be for everyone but there are lots of other ways in which you can festoon the room; anything from bunting, balloons, “his and hers” decorations or white tablecloths could work spiffingly. Doilies are a must, also. Throw in some homemade Harry and Meghan masks, and you’re all set.

Activities

Taking a distinct “Eurovision viewing party” angle, why not introduce scorecards for maximum viewing pleasure? You could place bets in advance as to which guests will be crowned best and worst dressed, and provide prizes accordingly.

You might find that once the wedding itself is over, the crowd won’t want the party to end. Don’t leave your friends hanging, you can keep the fun coming with this “Harry & Meghan Word Search Puzzle Book”, which has been described as “The MUST HAVE word search for 2018”.

If you are getting married this year and want your nuptials to rival that of Megan and Harry, then why not head to The Galmont Hotel & Spa wedding fair. Taking place on Thursday 17th May, from 6.00pm to 8.30pm, couples are invited to ‘say yes’ to an evening of regal wedding inspiration.

If interested then book your place with an email to aisling.clifford@thegalmont.com

Main image via JULIA GARCIA-PRAT