Breaking Tradition: Princess Beatrice and Edoardo Mappellimazzi’s Regrettable Decision

Princess Beatrice and Edoardo Mappellimazzi made a controversial choice that deviated from a long-standing royal tradition before their wedding, influenced by Meghan Markle.

Traditions are deeply ingrained in the royal family's customs, with certain events reserved exclusively for specific individuals.

However, Edoardo was swayed by Meghan Markle's influence to bend these rules.

In July 2020, the couple opted for a small ceremony, allowing Edoardo to partake in official royal events and secure prime seating at royal celebrations even before their marriage.

This departure from the customary practice of waiting until marriage to engage in such events raised eyebrows among royal observers.

A notable instance where Edoardo's inclusion stirred controversy was during the Christmas morning service at St. Mary Magdalene Church in Sandringham.

This private celebration is traditionally restricted to members of the firm, yet Edoardo was granted the rare privilege of attending, despite not being an official family member.

A similar breach of protocol occurred in 2017 when Prince Harry invited Meghan Markle before their nuptials.

Beatrice, inspired by this precedent, extended a similar invitation to Edoardo, marking a departure from established traditions.

In contrast, Princess Kate and Mike Tindall adhered to royal protocol by patiently waiting until their marriages to Prince William and Zara Tindall, respectively, before participating in such festivities.

Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams commented on the situation in 2021, highlighting that typically only spouses and close family members are granted such privileges.

He explained that Harry and Meghan's unique circumstances, residing at Nottingham Cottage in Kensington Palace with Meghan's family in the United States, contributed to their exceptional treatment.

Despite the monarchy's emphasis on precedent and tradition, Beatrice and Edoardo prioritized their personal desires over established norms.

On July 17, 2020, the couple exchanged vows at the Royal Chapel of All Saints at Royal Lodge, Windsor, with Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip in attendance as a touching tribute to Beatrice's grandmother.

Beatrice donned a vintage dress borrowed from Queen Elizabeth II, underscoring her reverence for family history.

Furthermore, she embraced her role as a stepmother to Edoardo's seven-year-old son, Christopher Wolfe.

However, questions linger about whether Edoardo regrets heeding Meghan's advice and straying from cherished royal traditions.