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Prince Harry has seemingly taken steps to ensure that Prince William can fulfill a significant responsibility within the royal family without unnecessary tension. Hugh Grosvenor, the 7th Duke of Westminster and a close friend of both Prince Harry and Prince William is set to have his wedding, dubbed the ‘society wedding of the year’, tomorrow, Friday, June 7. He will marry Olivia Henson in what promises to be a high-profile event.
Earlier reports suggested that the Duke of Sussex had declined a “save the date” invitation to the Duke of Westminster’s wedding. This decision was apparently made to avoid a potentially awkward encounter with family members, with whom Prince Harry currently has strained relationships, who are also expected to attend.
As reported by The Times, a source said: “It is understood that a civilized understanding was reached between the Duke [of Westminster] and Harry over the phone. It’s a long way to come from California, after all.”
Speaking of a”diplomatic” move, they added: “Harry was invited but then agreed to stay away. The Duke’s diplomacy then cleared the way for William to perform the role of usher during Friday’s ceremony — a job that would have been beyond awkward if he was obliged to show Harry to his pew, even though he might enjoy telling him where to go.”
Shortly after these reports, it was revealed that Prince William had been appointed as an usher at the wedding, a role that underscores the close bond between him and the Duke of Westminster.
Contrary to some speculation, the American publication PEOPLE Magazine confirmed that Prince Harry was indeed invited to the wedding. The magazine writes, “There was an acknowledgment on both sides that it would be difficult for Harry to attend,” suggesting a mutual understanding between Harry and the Duke of Westminster. According to a source, “The decision certainly avoided the inevitable clamor had estranged brothers Prince William, 41, and Prince Harry both attended the nuptials, eliminating the possibility of the big day being overshadowed for the couple.”
An insider close to Hugh Grosvenor and his bride-to-be elaborated on this agreement, stating that Harry and the Duke of Westminster made the decision amicably. The source emphasized that this understanding was reached to ensure that the wedding could proceed without any distractions caused by the strained dynamics between Prince Harry and other family members.
By choosing not to attend, Prince Harry has inadvertently facilitated Prince William’s participation as an usher, allowing the wedding to remain focused on the couple rather than royal family tensions. This act of consideration underscores the complex dynamics within the royal family and highlights Harry’s willingness to prioritize the happiness and harmony of his friends’ special day.
As the wedding approaches, it is clear that the decision for Prince Harry to stay away has helped maintain the celebratory spirit of the event, allowing Prince William to fulfill his role without additional pressure. This mutual agreement between the Duke of Sussex and the Duke of Westminster reflects a thoughtful approach to managing personal and family relationships amidst ongoing public scrutiny.
