It is just hours away from Harriet Sperling’s highly anticipated nuptials to Princess Anne’s son, Peter Philips, 47, and while we cannot wait to see what is in store for the big day, we are still smitten over their whirlwind love story.
NHS nurse Harriet, 45, has very quickly captured the hearts of the nation since she was first linked to her high-profile beau in 2024, joining him at events including the Badminton Horse Trials
When the news of the couple’s engagement landed last summer, some were surprised, some were not, but all were overjoyed, and just 48 hours before the big day, we thought we’d take a look back at the couple’s royally romantic love story.
May 2024 – First appearance together
© Getty ImagesPeter and Harriet went public with their romance in May 2024, when they cheered on the royal’s sister, the noted equestrian Zara Tindall, at the Badminton Horse Trials. The pair appeared in high spirits as they strolled hand in hand.
August 2025 – Harriet Sperling and Peter Phillips’ engagement
On Friday, a statement was issued for the couple by Gerard Franklin that read: “Mr Peter Phillips, the son of HRH The Princess Royal and Captain Mark Phillips, and Ms Harriet Sperling, daughter of the late Mr Rupert Sanders and Mrs Mary Sanders of Gloucestershire, have today confirmed their official engagement.
© Getty Images“Both families were informed jointly of the announcement and were delighted with the wonderful news of the engagement. Their majesties The King and Queen, The Prince and Princess of Wales have been informed of the announcement. No date has been officially set for the wedding.”
The couple exclusively shared two photographs, showing off Harriet’s magnificent ring. She looked beautiful in a frilly white top and skirt, while her husband donned a plaid top for the picture.
Emily Nash, HELLO!’s royal editor, said: “This is wonderful news for Peter and Harriet, but also the wider royal family. Peter is close to the King and to his cousins and Harriet seems ot have been warmly welcomed into the fold.”
August 2025 – Balmoral debut
Just weeks after the couple announced their engagement, Harriet joined her fiancé Peter Phillips for her first trip to Balmoral.
While at the royal stronghold, the pediatric nurse enjoyed quality time with her future husband and his daughters, Savannah, 15, and Isla, 14, whom he shares with his ex-wife, Autumn Phillips. It was another huge milestone for Harriet, who began dating Peter in 2024, as she prepares to become part of the royal fold.
April 2026 – Blended family debut
© Aaron Chown/PA Images via Getty ImagesOn Easter Sunday, Harriet’s 13-year-old daughter, Georgina, whom she shares with her ex-husband and fitness instructor Antonio St John Sperling, made her royal debut at the annual Easter Sunday service at St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle.
The teen was pictured side-by-side with her future stepsisters, Isla and Savannah, with the trio even co-ordinating their outfits for the day.
Isla was smartly clad in a polka-dot dress, navy blazer, and suede loafers. Taking the lead as the trio walked together, eldest daughter Savannah wore a structured coat dress with contrasting sleeves and white kitten heels.
Meanwhile, Georgina opted for a navy button-down top and brown suede midi skirt for her high-profile debut.
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