Relationships Talk

Carole Middleton might be renowned for impeccable mother of the bride style, but the Duchess of Cambridge‘s mum also knows a thing or two about how to handle the responsibility that comes with the role.

After all, she played an important part in one of the weddings of the decade when her oldest daughter married Prince William in 2011. Six years later, she took on the duty once again when Kate’s younger sister Pippa married James Matthews in 2017.

Wearing Catherine Walker to her daughter Kate’s wedding

Getty ImagesPascal Le Segretain

Speaking to The Telegraph, Middleton revealed that both of her daughters turned to her for advice in the lead-up to their big days. “We talked about music… everything. I was involved lots with both Pip’s and Catherine’s weddings,” she said.

However, there was one important lesson Middleton learned throughout the journey – and it’s a useful tip for anyone who is about to have a mother of the bride moment: it’s your daughter’s day.

“I think the most important thing, as a parent, is to listen to what your daughter wants. You can have all the ideas in the world, but it has to be about them,” Middleton said. “And don’t muscle in on the guest list.”

Arriving at Pippa’s wedding with her son, James

Getty ImagesWPA Pool

At the royal wedding, Middleton’s powder blue Catherine Walker outfit was hailed as a triumph, so it made sense that she stuck to a similar style by the same designer when Pippa tied-the-knot. With both nuptials attracting global attention, looking the part was essential.

“Like every mother, I wanted to look my best, make my children proud and enjoy the day,” she recalled. “I honestly don’t think I was any more stressed than any other mother-of-the-bride.”

Quite an achievement for a wedding that was watched by some 24.5 million Brits.