Already have an account?
Get back to the

Duchess Kate, Prince William’s Royal Wedding Was 5 Years Ago: A Look Back at the 5 Best Moments

Five years already! Kate Middleton and Prince William are celebrating their fifth wedding anniversary today — and Us Weekly is looking back at the biggest moments from the 2011 royal nuptials.

Related: PHOTOS: Kate Middleton and Prince William's First Year of Marriage

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge — now parents of Prince George, 2, and Princess Charlotte, 11 months — got engaged in October 2010 during a private Kenya getaway. William popped the question with an 18-carat sapphire diamond ring, which belonged to his late mother, Princess Diana.

After much planning, the royal couple tied the knot on April 29, 2011, at the Westminster Abbey in London at 11:00 a.m. local time. The massive spectacle was televised worldwide and watched by nearly 27 million British viewers and more than 23 million Americans.

Kate Middleton and Prince William wedding kiss
Kate Middleton and Prince William kiss on the balcony at Buckingham Palace with (from right) Margarita Armstrong-Jones, Grace Van Cutsem and Lady Louise, following their wedding at Westminster Abbey on April 29, 2011, in London. Mark Cuthbert/UK Press via Getty Images

Related: Kate Middleton and Prince William's Best Quotes About Starting a Family

Check out some of the most talked about moments below:

1. Duchess Kate’s Dress!
Most beautiful bride ever? Kate wore an Alexander McQueen dress designed by Sarah Burton, which featured a bodice skirt, lace appliqué, ivory silk tulle and a long train. She wore her brunette locks in a half up, half down ‘do, and finished the stunning look with a veil and Cartier “Halo” tiara.

Pippa Middleton carrying Kate Middleton's wedding dress train
Kate Middleton and Pippa Middleton arrive at Westminster Abbey for Kate’s wedding to Prince William in London on April 29, 2011. Antony Jones/Julian Parker/Mark Cuthbert/UK Press via Getty Images

Kate — who even did her own makeup! — got ready with her parents, Carole and Michael Middleton, and younger sister, Pippa Middleton. Kate and her father arrived to the ceremony in a Rolls-Royce Phantom VI around 10:50 a.m. Her brother, James Middleton, later escorted Carole down the aisle. 

Related: PHOTOS: Kate Middleton's Style Evolution

2. Pippa Middleton’s Bum!
Almost stole her thunder! Pippa’s curves were on full display at the wedding — and the entire world noticed. The maid of honor wore a tight-fitted Alexander McQueen gown, and later joked about the attention she received. “As I have found out, recognition has its upside, its downside and — you may say — its backside,” she said in February 2014.

Pippa Middleton
Kate Middleton and Pippa Middleton arrive at Westminster Abbey for Kate’s wedding to Prince William in London on April 29, 2011. CARL DE SOUZA/AFP/Getty Images

3. Prince Harry’s Charming Ways

Prince William’s younger brother was the best man at the ceremony. He sweetly fulfilled his duties as he tried to calm William’s nerves when they stood at the altar together. “She is here now,” he could be seen whispering. Afterward, the redheaded royal appeared to crack jokes with Pippa as the entire royal family waved to onlookers from the balcony.

Prince Harry and Prince William
Prince Harry and Prince William inside Westminster Abbey before William’s wedding to Kate Middleton on April 29, 2011, in London. Andrew Milligan - WPA Pool/Getty Images

Related: PHOTOS: Royal Family Tree: A Guide to Queen Elizabeth II's Kids and Grandkids

4. Annoyed Wedding Party
Some of Kate and William’s younger family members weren’t too thrilled to wave to the massive crowd. William’s goddaughter Grace Van Cutsem, then 3, covered her ears to block out the loud cheers. The guest list also included stars such as David and Victoria Beckham, Joss Stone, Sir Elton John and Madonna‘s ex-husband Guy Ritchie.

David Beckham and Victoria Beckham
David Beckham and Victoria Beckham at Prince William and Kate Middleton’s wedding in London on April 29, 2011. Danny Martindale/FilmMagic

5. The Kiss!

Not just behind closed doors! The newlyweds broke royal tradition when they kissed in front of everyone while celebrating on the balcony of Buckingham Palace. The two blushed and were overjoyed by the crowd’s reaction. “Do one more kiss?” William asked, as they leaned in for a second peck on the lips. Kate and William were joined outside at the time by Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip, Prince Charles, Duchess Camilla, Prince Harry and Pippa, Michael and Carole Middleton.

Relive the extravaganza in the videos above!

In this article

Got a Tip form close button
Got a tip for US?
We're All Ears for Celebrity Buzz!