30 Startling Facts About the World's Favorite Royal Wedding of Princess Diana and Prince Charles

A Whirlwind Romance

Contrary to popular belief, Charles and Diana knew little of each other before they made their way down the aisle. Their engagement was announced after the couple had only gone on twelve dates.

A National Holiday

The spectacular wedding day between the two young lovers was officially declared a national holiday. July 29, 1981, was declared a national holiday by the UK so that overjoyed citizens could be a part of the celebration.

Let Them Eat Cake

The couple’s celebration was nothing short of extravagant. The bride and groom had 27 wedding cakes. The official cake was provided by David Avery, the head baker at the Royal Naval cooking school. Astonishingly, in 2014, a 33-year-old slice of wedding cake from the special day sold at auction for $1,375.

The Secret Dress

Details about Diana’s wedding dress were “the most closely guarded secrets in fashion history.” The details of the dress were kept so successfully hidden from the world press that details were only released “in sealed envelopes” and the media were only permitted to open them “the moment [Diana] stepped into the glass coach at Clarence House.” Designers had to make three dresses for Diana, just in case word got to the media before the big day.