Prince William & Kate Middleton's Fairy Tale Wedding

Ever since the royal engagement was announced last November, the world has been waiting for the day Catherine Elizabeth Middleton would transform into a princess. The big moment finally occurred this past Friday, when Prince William and Kate exchanged vows in the presence of 1,900 guests at London's historic Westminster Abbey.

The beautiful ceremony, which was aired live on television networks all over the world, was watched by over two billion people - Some like yours truly, getting out of bed at an ungodly hour, to watch the historic event.

The groom and his best man and brother Prince Harry were the first to arrive for the ceremony. Seated in a Rolls Royce, the two saluted and waved to the millions of cheering spectators as they drove up along the procession route that included some of London's most beautiful landmarks.

Prince William looked quite dapper in his bright red Irish Guards uniform, while the equally good looking best man, Prince Harry, sported a navy blue military suit, the uniform of the Captain of the Household Cavalry.

They were followed by other members of the royal family and then, after what seemed like an eternity, came the moment everyone had been waiting for - The arrival of Kate Middleton, soon to be known as Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge . Seated with her father in a Rolls-Royce Phantom VI, she smiled and waved at her fans, providing them with the first glimpse of the intricate lace detailing on the sleeves of her dress.  

When she arrived at the Abbey, the world waited with abated breath as she stepped out of the car and finally revealed her much speculated on wedding dress. And, she did not disappoint! Created by Sarah Burton, the exquisite lace and ivory satin design with a V-shaped neckline and a train measuring nearly nine feet, it featured a modern twist on a traditional theme and was simply stunning!

The short veil that covered her face was held in place by a Cartier 'halo' diamond tiara loaned to her by Queen Elizabeth II.  The only other jewelry this elegant bride wore was a pair of teardrop diamond earrings - A wedding gift from her parents. Even the harshest critics agreed - There has rarely been a more beautiful princess!

Following the beautiful short ceremony, the newly wedded couple - now known as Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, boarded an ornate carriage and returned to Buckingham Palace for a lavish lunch reception hosted by the Queen.

During the reception, the radiant couple and their young bridesmaids and page boys made a customary appearance on the Buckingham Palace balcony to wave at the cheering crowds anxious to get a glimpse of their new princess.

However, while the crowd went hysteric over the couple's first kiss as a married couple, it was the Prince's goddaughter, three-year-old bridesmaid Grace van Cutsem that stole the show, when she covered her ears to drown out the ruckus from the crowds below and the airplanes overhead. Talk about cuteness overload!

It was a joyous and emotional occasion for not only the happy couple and the people of Britain, but also, for everyone who still believes in fairytales. Congratulations William and Kate!

Resources: Dailymail.co.uk, [email protected]