Today marks a momentous occasion as Hugh Grosvenor, the 7th Duke of Westminster, marries Olivia Henson at Chester Cathedral. Crowds have gathered outside the historic cathedral in anticipation of what is being dubbed the society wedding of the year.
Hugh, 33, and Olivia, 31, are set to exchange vows in a ceremony that has attracted guests from around the globe.
The Ceremony and Notable Guests
The ceremony, taking place at midday, will be attended by approximately 400 guests, including prominent figures from British high society.
Among the notable attendees is Prince William, who will serve as an usher. However, Prince Harry will not be present.
The Princess of Wales, currently undergoing preventative chemotherapy, is also expected to miss the event.
Community Celebrations and Generosity
In a gesture of goodwill, the Duke has arranged for free ice cream, gelato, and sorbet for Cheshire locals from three independent cafes, allowing the community to join in the celebration.
Additionally, an astounding 100,000 flowers have been planted throughout Chester, funded by the Duke, and will be donated to charity post-ceremony.
This week, a beautiful floral arch was constructed around the West Door of the 1,000-year-old cathedral.
Preparations and Security Measures
Security measures have been heightened due to the presence of high-profile guests, including the heir to the throne.
Detectives and local Cheshire Police officers have been visible around the cathedral precincts, and police sniffer dogs have been seen checking for explosives.
Reception and Eco-Friendly Initiatives
The newlyweds plan to reside at Eaton Hall, a grand estate in Cheshire, perfect for hosting celebrations. Cheshire Farm Ice Cream, a local business, will provide a range of ice creams and a specially created lemon-sponge flavored arctic roll, inspired by the couple’s wedding cake.
The owner, Ed Warrington, expressed his delight at being part of the Duke and Olivia’s initiative to provide free ice cream to the public.
A Green and Sustainable Celebration
Both Hugh and Olivia are known for their commitment to environmental sustainability. It is anticipated that their wedding will reflect this ethos, with flowers from the ceremony and reception being pressed and transformed into sustainable artworks.
Olivia, a senior account manager at Belazu, a company specializing in sustainably-sourced ingredients, and Hugh, who has championed various eco-friendly practices, are ensuring their wedding leaves a positive environmental impact.
A Love Story in Full Bloom
The couple has been meticulous about keeping details of their reception private, asking guests to refrain from social media posting.
Despite this, the grandeur and elegance of the event are evident from the preparations. Olivia, a Marlborough College alumna like the Princess of Wales and Princess Eugenie, brings her charm and commitment to sustainability to this high-profile union.
Conclusion
The wedding of Hugh Grosvenor and Olivia Henson at Chester Cathedral is not just a significant social event but also a testament to their shared values and love.
As the richest man in Britain under forty, Hugh’s marriage to Olivia, a successful professional with a passion for sustainability, marks a union that is both grand and grounded in a commitment to positive change.
The community’s involvement, the lavish floral displays, and the emphasis on eco-friendly practices underscore the couple’s dedication to making their special day memorable for all the right reasons.
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