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Bride and groom slammed for “gift fishing”

<p dir="ltr">A couple has been rinsed online for sending out the “worst wedding invitation ever” that quickly went viral on social media. </p> <p dir="ltr">The bride and groom decided they would tie the knot in a “private ceremony”, but still decided to send out invitations to those who weren’t actually invited to attend. </p> <p dir="ltr">The invitation asked people to “join us in spirit”, while the word “spirit” was spelled incorrectly. </p> <p dir="ltr">The bride claimed that she thought the cards would soften the blow for loved ones who weren't invited, but many online commenters say they have the opposite effect. </p> <p dir="ltr">The couple were quickly slammed as “patronising and rude” with hundreds of infuriated social media users claiming it was “nothing but a present grab”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Great way to let people know they aren't invited but you'd still like a present,” one person wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Not even a virtual wedding, this is just tacky,” said another. </p> <p dir="ltr">The view was universal, as one person joked, “We're having a wedding, you're not invited.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“If I got this, it would go straight in the trash,” another said, while someone else suggested, “I'd use it as kindling for the fire pit.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Some people also added that despite the couple’s alleged best intentions with the non-invites, they were bound to cause confusion among recipients. </p> <p dir="ltr">“She's going to get so many confused phone calls about this,” one person said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“People will be confused about where to buy tickets,” said another. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Shutterstock / Facebook</em></p>

Relationships

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Official invitation of King Charles’ Coronation revealed

<p>The invitation for the Coronation of The King and Queen Consort has been revealed.</p> <p>Buckingham Palace released the long anticipated card which will be sent out to 2,000 guests for the Westminister Abbey event on May 6.</p> <p>The verified Twitter account @RoyalFamily have shared the intricate design and explained the symbolism behind it.</p> <p>“Designed by Andrew Jamieson, the invitation features the Green Man, an ancient figure from British folklore, symbolic of spring and rebirth, to celebrate the new reign,” the tweet read.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">The official invitation for the Coronation of The King and The Queen Consort has been revealed.</p> <p>Designed by Andrew Jamieson, the invitation features the Green Man, an ancient figure from British folklore, symbolic of spring and rebirth, to celebrate the new reign. </p> <p>1/7 <a href="https://t.co/MpajIk0SQw">pic.twitter.com/MpajIk0SQw</a></p> <p>— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) <a href="https://twitter.com/RoyalFamily/status/1643526218564661248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2023</a></p></blockquote> <p>The card is a hand-painted watercolour and gouache illustration and will be printed and issued on recycled card, likely representing the King’s lifelong devotion to sustainability.</p> <p>"The Coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla,” The invitation reads. "By command of the King the Earl Marshal is directed to invite [name] to be present at the Abbey Church of Westminster on the 6th day of May 2023.”</p> <p>A further look shows two birds on the letter C, bordered by Charles and Camilla’s coat of arms. The Queen Consort’s crest has been updated also, reflecting her status as a Royal Lady of the Order of the Garter, courtiers said.</p> <p>The floral border is thought to reflect a British wildflower meadow with lily of the valley, cornflowers, dog roses, wild strawberries and bluebells, including a sprig of rosemary to symbolise remembrance.</p> <p>The flowers are grouped in bunches of three to reflect that Charles is the third King of his name. The card incorporates a butterfly and a bee, small drawings of a lion, unicorn and a boar from the royal couple’s coats of arms.</p> <p>The invitation is reminiscent of Queen Elizabeth’s crowning ceremony in 1953, which Charles attended at the age of 4; receiving his own colourful invite showcasing trumpeting Grenadier Guards and the lion and unicorn of the royal coat of arms.</p> <p>Although a visually stunning card, some have pointed out that Camilla is referred to as the Queen rather than the Queen consort, causing a stir online.</p> <p>“It also misses the word consort. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NotMyQueen?src=hashtag_click" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#NotMyQueen</a>," one user wrote.</p> <p>"Uh...QUEEN? Uh... not." another said.</p> <p>"Camilla will never be seen as Queen, no matter how many crowns you put on her head. She is only the Queen Consort as the late REAL Queen decreed." a third added.</p> <p>It is not yet known if Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will be in attendance.</p> <p><em>Image credit: Twitter</em></p>

Art

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"Who wants me around?" Sarah Ferguson's hilarious Coronation response

<p>Sarah Ferguson has joked about being invited to King Charles' Coronation in May, claiming she hasn't received an invitation. </p> <p>While in New York to promote her new book, titled <em>A Most Intriguing Lady</em>, a question came from the audience if she was planning to attend the royal event, given some members of the royal family, including Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, had already received their email invites.</p> <p>"TBD [to be determined]," she said before asking, "The invitations haven't gone out yet. Have they?"</p> <p>After a murmured response from the crowd, the Duchess quipped that her invitation could be waiting for her at home. </p> <p>"I'm travelling at the moment, so maybe it [invitation] has gone to another place," she said to host and <em>Glamour</em> magazine editor Samantha Barry.</p> <p>"The invitations haven't gone out yet, so I don't know if I'm going to be there because, you know, who wants me around," she joked.</p> <p>Fergie also joked about other grand plans she may have for the big day if she doesn't make it to Westminster Abbey. </p> <p>"Well I've decided the best thing about being British around a coronation - although I've never been to one - I think we should, I should set up a tea room at the bottom of the drive with bunting and cakes," she said.</p> <p>When asked if she had any advice for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who have received their invitation but are yet to announce if they'll attend amid the deepening family rift, Fergie said she aimed to "lead by example" to the young royals.</p> <p>"I think the best way to answer that is to really take hold and lead by example," she said.</p> <p>"I wouldn't give advice, I would say that your actions speak louder than words."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Family & Pets

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How to block app invites on Facebook

<p>Got that one annoying Facebook friend who keeps inviting you to play Candy Crush? And no matter how many times you tell them you want nothing to do with their quest for candy, the invites keeps coming in? Here’s what you can do to put a stop to it (and keep the friendship intact):</p> <p><strong>Blocking an app or game</strong></p> <p>When you block an app or game, it won't be able to access any of your Facebook information or send you any requests. If you no longer want an app or game to contact you, please remove it.</p> <ol> <li>Click the downward arrow icon on the top right of your Facebook page. Select Settings.</li> <li>Click Blocking, located in the left column.</li> <li>In the Block apps section, type the name of the app or game you want to block.</li> </ol> <p>If you ever want to unblock the app or game, click “Unblock” next to the app name.</p> <p><strong>Blocking a specific friend’s invitations</strong></p> <p>If you have a Facebook friend that invites you to so many different games and apps that you’ve often wondered if they spend their entire life on Facebook, you have the option to block all invites from a particular Facebook friend. This automatically ignores all future invites from all games and apps sent by the person.</p> <ol> <li>Click the downward arrow icon on the top right of your Facebook page. Select Settings.</li> <li>Click Blocking, located in the left column.</li> <li>In the Block app invites section, type the name of the friend you want to block invites from.</li> </ol> <p><em>Image: Shutterstock</em></p>

Technology

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Why Crown Princess Mary was noticeably absent from the Queen's funeral

<p>Royal fans were quick to notice a suspicious absence from Queen Elizabeth's funeral on Monday. </p> <p>Despite being confirmed on the guest list, Crown Princess Mary of Denmark was noticeably missing from the congregation of famous faces. </p> <p>The Aussie-born royal confirmed her plan to attend the state service via a palace statement last week.</p> <p>“HM (Her Majesty) The Queen and The Crown Prince Couple (Prince Frederik and Princess Mary) will be present at the State Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II on 19 September 2022 at Westminster Abbey in London, Great Britain,” the statement read at the time.</p> <p>However, only Prince Frederik and his 82-year-old mother, Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, were photographed inside the church, where they sat in the front row opposite King Charles III.</p> <p>The Danish Royal Family has since edited the initial statement on its official website, which now simply reads, “HM The Queen and the Crown Prince Couple are present at the State Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II on 19 September 2022 at Westminster Abbey in London, Great Britain.”</p> <p>The updated statement made no mention of Crown Princess Mary. </p> <p>Danish tabloids have offered a possible explanation for the embarrassing blunder, saying the invitation may have been "made in error", citing a spokesperson from the Danish Royal House.</p> <p>“There has been a regrettable error in the invitation from the British Foreign Office’s protocol. It is thus only the Queen and the Crown Prince who, from the Danish side, will participate in Queen Elizabeth II’s state funeral on Monday,” a spokesperson reportedly confirmed to local publication BT.</p> <p>There were reportedly only two dignitaries per country permitted to attend.</p> <p>The outlet’s royal correspondent, Jacob Heinel Jensen, said he believed the Danish royals would be embarrassed by the oversight.</p> <p>“It’s really clumsy and unfortunate. It has meant that the Royal House must now say that a mistake had been made, and that is embarrassing,” he said.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

News

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Aussies invited overseas to live and work tax-free

<p dir="ltr">Does the digital nomad lifestyle seem too good to be true? Well, working poolside could be your next sensible business move, with popular tropical holiday destination Bali introducing a new visa to entice visitors.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Indonesian government has announced a foreign “remote workers” visa where freelancers can dial in from the beautiful resort-style island tax-free.</p> <p dir="ltr">Proposed earlier in 2022, the renewed B211A visa allows Australians to work in Indonesia for up to six months without paying tax, according to the Tourism Minister Sandiaga Uno. The announcement was made last week in an attempt to attract workers who are keen on a change of lifestyle.</p> <p dir="ltr">Typically, digital nomads are on 30-day tourist visas and have had to leave and re-enter the country monthly if they wanted to stay. Tourism Minister Uno now hopes the government turning its attention to Bali’s remote worker crowd will help foster growth.</p> <p dir="ltr">He said the move could help create an extra 4.4 million jobs across Indonesia by 2024.</p> <p dir="ltr">“With a visa valid for two months and can be extended for six months, I am more confident that the number of foreign tourists interested in residing in Indonesia will increase and will automatically impact the economic revival,” he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">A proposal for an extended version of a similar visa is still under discussion.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

Money & Banking

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The 10 Aussies invited to the Queen's funeral

<p dir="ltr">Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced that 10 Aussies will be joining him in the UK for the Queen’s funeral. </p> <p dir="ltr">Queen Elizabeth II died at the age of 96 on September 8 while under medical supervision due to her deteriorating health. </p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Albanese explained that the palace put out a request for “everyday citizens who make contributions to their local communities”.</p> <p dir="ltr">On the list is Australian of the Year Dylan Alcott, horse trainer Chris Waller, Valmai Dempsey – the 2022 Senior Australian of the Year, Dr Miriam-Rose Ungunmerr Baumann – 2021 Senior Australian of the Year, Shanna Whan – the 2022 Local Hero of the Year.</p> <p dir="ltr">Also on the list is Saba Abraham – a local hero from Queensland, Kim Smith – a local hero from Tasmania, Trudy Lin- the 2022 Young Australian of the Year, Danny Abdallah – a co-creator of i4give Day and Foundation, and Professor Helen Milroy – the 2021 Western Australian of the Year.</p> <p dir="ltr">The 10 Aussies will travel with Mr Albanese and the Governor-General and their partners on a VIP plane to the UK.</p> <p dir="ltr">When they arrive, they will meet with the acting High Commissioner Lynette Wood.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The Australians who have been invited I think embody an extraordinary contribution to our nation,” Mr Albanese said.</p> <p dir="ltr">Leaders from nearby Pacific Islands have been invited to join Mr Albanese on the flight to London. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong><span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; font-size: 16px;">Correction: An earlier version of this story indicated that the partners of the 10 Aussies would attend the Queen's funeral. This has now been rectified to indicate that only the partners of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and </span>Governor-General </strong><strong>David Hurley will be in attendance.</strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

International Travel

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Major cringe: Bride discovers worst possible typo on invitations

<p>A bride-to-be has shared over on social media quite the embarrassing mistake she sent out on wedding invitations to guests.</p> <p>The woman posted a TikTok video showing off the elegant invite, but failed to notice that instead of directing guests to her wedding website to RSVP, she sent them a link to a popular X-rated adult website.</p> <blockquote class="tiktok-embed" style="max-width: 605px; min-width: 325px;" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@squidward.tentacles/video/7131461119989894446" data-video-id="7131461119989894446"> <section><a title="@squidward.tentacles" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@squidward.tentacles?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@squidward.tentacles</a> Oops <a title="fyd" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/fyd?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#fyd</a> <a title="wedding" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/wedding?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#wedding</a> <a title="weddingtiktok" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/weddingtiktok?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#weddingtiktok</a> <a title="weddingtok" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/weddingtok?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#weddingtok</a> <a title="weddingmishaps" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/weddingmishaps?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#weddingmishaps</a> <a title="weddinginvitations" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/weddinginvitations?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#weddinginvitations</a> <a title="♬ original sound - Squid" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-7131461115967556398?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">♬ original sound - Squid</a></section> </blockquote> <p>"So I got my wedding invitations in the mail today. Super exciting," she said in her video.</p> <p>"Except I made a very large mistake that I'm going to share with you guys so other brides don't make this mistake because I'm sure it's super common."</p> <p>She then shows off her "really cute" RSVP card and admits she forgot she put the adult website in as a placeholder and failed to change it to her wedding website.</p> <p>Fellow TikTokers did however find the bride's mistake hilarious.</p> <p>"I think this is hilarious! I checked my invites 1000 times before I finalised because I did the same thing!" someone admitted.</p> <p>"I love this. I’m dying laughing," a third added.</p> <p>"I put the wrong venue address on mine. And didn’t notice until the week before wedding lol FUN!" another claimed.</p> <p>However, others were left confused as to how she allowed it to happen in the first place.</p> <p>Omg. Who spell-checked this? Anyone?" one commented.</p> <p>"Aren’t wedding invitations kinda expensive to not bother proofreading before ordering and mailing out?" another questioned.</p> <p>Some users also criticised the bride, saying the invitation was riddled with spelling mistakes.</p> <p>"Sis. That card needs to run through spell check," a TikToker wrote.</p> <p>"Do you actually think this is a super common mistake? Or are you being sarcastic...?" another questioned.</p> <p>"Please hire someone to do this for you," a third urged.</p> <p><em>Image: TikTok</em></p>

Relationships

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Young fan invites Prince George to her 6th birthday party

<p dir="ltr">When Prince George was invited to a young girl’s sixth birthday he had to politely decline. </p> <p dir="ltr">The nine-year-old Prince was invited to an anonymous girl’s sixth birthday party over the school holidays.</p> <p dir="ltr">However, the Prince had to politely decline and a beautiful letter was written by his mother the Duchess of Cambridge and sent to the young girl apologising for not being able to attend. </p> <p dir="ltr">“The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have asked me to thank you for your letter, in which you invite Prince George to your 6th Birthday party,” the letter read.</p> <p dir="ltr">"I am sorry that it took so long to reply.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Their Royal Highnesses were extremely grateful for your kind invitation. Having given careful consideration to the possibilities, however, I very much regret that Their Royal Highnesses reluctantly feel they have to decline.</p> <p dir="ltr">"The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were immensely touched that you should take the trouble to write as you did to their son, Prince George.</p> <p dir="ltr">"It really was most thoughtful of you and Their Royal Highnesses have asked me to send you their warmest thanks and best wishes.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Nevertheless, I hope you enjoy your birthday."</p> <p dir="ltr">The eldest child of Prince William and Duchess Kate Middleton only recently <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/family-pets/prince-george-is-nine" target="_blank" rel="noopener">celebrated his birthday</a> on July 22. </p> <p dir="ltr">In honour of his birthday, Kensington Palace released an adorable portrait of the future king on holiday in the UK earlier this year.</p> <p dir="ltr">“George is turning 9!” the caption simply read with a cake and balloon emoji.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CgSe4v0NTfN/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CgSe4v0NTfN/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (@dukeandduchessofcambridge)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">The image shows a huge grin from the young prince as he enjoys a holiday at Norfolk with his family.</p> <p dir="ltr">The photo was taken by the Duchess who has regularly been sharing snaps of her family as they celebrate milestones.</p> <p dir="ltr">Prince George was born on July 22, 2013 at the Lindo Wing of St Mary’s Hospital in London and made his first appearance as a day old baby in his mother’s arms as she left the hospital.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Instagram/Getty</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Woman awarded $131,000 after not being invited to work drinks

<p dir="ltr">A waitress has been awarded a whopping $131,000 after not being invited to work drinks. </p> <p dir="ltr">Rita Leher said that she felt “shunned” by her colleagues at a London casino when they didn’t invite her to a cocktail bar.</p> <p dir="ltr">The 51-year-old, who is older than her colleagues and has worked at the casino for 10 years, took stress leave after hearing the plans being discussed in front of her and not receiving an invite. </p> <p dir="ltr">Rita, who also happens to be of African descent, issued a complaint to the employment tribunal on the basis of race and claimed the victimisation was due to her age and ethnicity.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We unanimously agree that being excluded from discussions at work about a social occasion amongst colleagues when one would normally be included would subject an employee to a detriment at work," Employment Judge Sarah Moor said.</p> <p dir="ltr">"A reasonable employee would consider that such exclusion was to their disadvantage because they had lost the opportunity to bond with colleagues on that social occasion.</p> <p dir="ltr">"The occasion was sufficiently linked to work by the fact that it was amongst work colleagues and was discussed at work, and would provide the opportunity for team bonding.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Rita was subsequently awarded £74,113.65 ($131,000) in compensation on the basis of injury to feelings and loss of overtime and financial loss. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Shutterstock</em></p>

Money & Banking

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Abdallah family overwhelmed by incredible invitation

<p>Two years following the tragic loss of their three children to a drunk and drugged driver, the Abdallah family say they have been “humbled” and invited to share their story with the Pope.</p> <p>Danny and Leila Abdallah’s daughters Sienna and Angelina and son Antony were killed alongside their cousin in February 2020.</p> <p>The grief stricken parents largely credit their faith in being able to move forward following the tragedy, starting the foundation ‘i4give’.</p> <p>On Saturday, Leila announced via Instagram that she and Danny had been invited to share their story on a global scale.</p> <p>“Danny and I feel humbled and honoured that our Bishop Antoine Charbel Taraby invited us to attend the WMOF 2022 (World meeting of families 2022) all glory to God always.</p> <p>“Our mission is to serve the Lord and our children for the rest of our lives.”</p> <p>“Please pray that we can have i4give on a global platform starting at the Vatican.”</p> <p>“We thank all our fellow Australians for their love and ongoing support, you have showed Danny and I the true meaning of the Aussie spirit and we are grateful.”</p> <p>The family have welcomed a baby daughter in March, naming her Selina.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CeFH6e_hkEF/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CeFH6e_hkEF/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Leila Geagea Abdallah (@leila._abdallah)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The World Meeting of Families takes place in Rome at the end of June.</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Wedding guest disregards child-free invite

<p><em>Image: Getty / Reddit </em></p> <p>Hosting a child-free wedding seems like a good idea for some couples who are hoping to save money and perhaps are looking for a quiet, less rowdy event.</p> <p>It isn't always a popular choice among families, however, and can lead to tension that lasts for years. In this case, a couple has hosted a child-free wedding only for one of the groom's friends to arrive with his four children.</p> <p>"My husband (30) and I (30) got married 2 weeks ago," the bride explains on Reddit, explaining they decided on a child-free wedding "due to venue choice, food choice, alcohol, location" and included this "rule" in every invitation.</p> <p>Her new husband's best friend is a widower and has four children. He took immediate issue with the rule, according to the bride, to the point the groom was worried he wouldn't attend the event.</p> <p>"But about almost an hour into the wedding, we start hearing noise from a distance," she continues. "We look closely and see Leo standing there with his 4 kids dressed nicely," she writes. "He was arguing with the staff about the kids not being allowed."</p> <p>The bride say she felt "horrible" because "the staff were drilling that this an adult only wedding and the kids needed to leave" only for Leo to continue to argue, yelling out the groom's name so he could back him up.</p> <p>"I was so upset and embarrassed but I kept my composure and went over to talk to Leo. I told him to either get the kids somewhere else and come back or just leave," the bride continues.</p> <p>Leo "acted offended" and said this was his best friend's wedding and he was invited to it. "I said I was sorry but the rule is followed by everybody, and everybody should respect that," she continues. "He argued about how he wasn't just a random guest but was family but I said it still applies.</p> <p>"I insisted he make his choice but he doubled down talking about how he couldn't find babysitter and how he shouldn't have to miss his best friend's wedding."</p> <p>It was then the couple had staff escort Leo and his children out of the event.</p> <p>The incident divided guests, especially when Leo and his children were forced to leave the event, which the bride says "led to some of my husband's friends to complain saying Leo has special circumstances because he's a widower and it's essentially my fault for not providing babysitting options for guests".</p> <p>The wedding continued, she explains, but her husband was angry with her: "He said this is his best friend that I just caused to miss his wedding. He said Leo stopped answering his calls (til today) and respond to his messages because of what I did."</p> <p>Her husband is now accusing her of ruining his relationship with his friend when she "could've just made an exception for him and the kids since they were there already".</p> <p>She says before the nuptials her husband was "onboard" with their child-free rule and she was concerned by making an exception for Leo others would have felt "deeply hurt".</p> <p>"What a way to start a marriage," a user writes. "Throwing your wife under the bus<span> </span><em>at the f--king wedding ceremony."</em></p> <p>One person shared a story of a wedding they attended that catered to children separately from the formalities.</p> <p>"Bride and groom paid for 4 sitters and arranged a separate party for kids with a bouncy house," they recall.</p> <p>"It is especially gross that his friends are saying it his her fault for not finding Leo a babysitter," writes another. "Like, this dude is incapable of finding a babysitter for his own children, but they expect his best friend's wife who is planning a whole wedding and totally unaware he didn't have a babysitter to do it for him?"</p>

Relationships

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Can you spot the invitation amongst the brides and grooms?

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Stretch your brain muscles and test your observation skills with this tricky wedding-themed brain teaser from Cambridge Weight Plan.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To solve the puzzle, you must spot the invitation among the crowd of wedding guests.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">According to the UK-based puzzle creators, the record time to beat when spotting the hidden invitation is 31 seconds - but can you solve it faster?</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img style="width: 500px; height: 500px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7843249/puzzle1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/ee6c4b98548f40529f3bd5ff008180da" /></span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Cambridge Weight Plan</span></em></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you need a hint, take a look at the pink ribbons at the bottom of the image.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Mark Gilbert, a nutritionist at Cambridge Weight Plan, said: “We’ve created our brain teaser to provide brides, grooms and attendees with some light-hearted, challenging fun this month. With the record set at 31 seconds, we want to see who can beat the clock!”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Scroll down further to find the solution.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 500px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7843248/puzzle2.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/29d13f20fc574dbb93f899dcc6b897b9" /></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Cambridge Weight Plan</span></em></p>

Mind

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Couple's "cringe and vulgar" wedding invitations go viral

<p>A couple has sparked outrage as their "vulgar" wedding invitations have gone viral on Reddit. </p> <p>The Reddit user posted a photo of the invitations, captioning the image with <span>“My cousin sent this along with her wedding invitations ... I will not be in attendance.”</span></p> <p><span>The invitation says "S*** you need to know" before sharing very aggressive and unusual rules for their special day. </span></p> <p><span>The invitation reads, </span>“Wedding gifts: If you wanted to give us a wedding gift, a contribution to our honeymoon would be perfect.”</p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020">“Dress code: Wear whatever the f*** you want - go butt f*** naked for all we care."</p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020">“Children: Leave your little s**** at home. We want to get f***ed up. (We will turn you away)."</p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020">“Hotels: Google it you lazy f***."</p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020">“Taxis: See above."</p> <div class="hide-print ad-no-notice css-qyun7f-StyledAdUnitWrapper ezkyf1c0"> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020">“Parking: Follow the f***ing directions we gave you, dumba**."</p> <p class="css-1316j2p-StyledParagraph e4e0a020">“Questions: Check the f***ing website.”</p> </div> <p><span>The hostile invitation has been slammed online, with many people noting the only polite part of the  message was when they were asking for wedding gifts and donations.</span></p> <p><span>Many users shared their thoughts on the awkward invitations, with one person saying, “So much cringe. Trying far too hard to be cool.”</span></p> <p><span>Another commenter said, “I don’t get why people think swearing is so funny. I mean I have nothing against it. It’s just not particularly clever or funny.”</span></p> <p><em>Image credits: Reddit/Shutterstock</em></p>

Relationships

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More Samantha Armytage wedding details revealed: Who was invited?

<p><span>Samantha Armytage and Richard Lavender said their “I do’s” on New Years Eve – news that surprised even the most loyal fans.</span><br /><br /><span>However no one was more taken aback than her work colleagues.</span></p> <p><span>Due to COVID-19 restrictions and travel bans, </span><span>Sam and Richard were forced to make their wedding guest list much smaller than anticipated but it seemed to suit the two just fine. </span><span>Woman’s Day reports Sam kept her nuptials top secret, leaving her colleagues feeling “miffed”.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7839416/samantha-armytage-1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/68faace5c56f45058d353a6024323567" /><br /><br /><span>"There were a few dropped jaws among the <em>Sunrise</em> crew when they first discovered the wedding was indeed taking place on New Year's Eve – the following day," the tabloid wrote.</span><br /><br /><span>"Natalie Barr, Larry Emdur and Kylie Gillies were noticeably missing, Kochie was in coronavirus lockdown on the Northern Beaches, long-time Sunrise producer Michael Pell was in Queensland holidaying, Mark Beretta and Edwina Bartholomew were on the Sunrise desk on New Year's Day so they couldn't be there... the list goes on," an inside told the magazine.</span><br /><br /><span>"Even Sam Mac, who Richard is a big fan of, wasn't there on the big day."</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7839417/samantha-armytage.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/563c5f3413a14966b96f63f4156876d1" /><br /><br /><span>The pair had a handful of guests to watch them commit to their love, on Richard’s 40-hectare property.</span></p>

Beauty & Style

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Our nearest neighbour invites us to explore its sublime wilderness

<p>So close. Worlds away. Discover the incomparable beauty that lies just beyond our shores. The Land of the Long White Cloud, draped in breathtaking landscapes, waits to be discovered; its abundant mountain peaks and fiords seeming almost at odds with the modest size of its twin islands. From its largest city, Auckland, and the subtropical Bay of Islands to the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, the North Island showcases the country’s unique culture and landscapes. Crossing Cook Strait to the South Island, witness the striking Marlborough Sounds, as well as a host of other natural wonders, including Franz Josef glacier, Milford Sound and the World Heritage-listed Aoraki Mt Cook National Park.</p> <p>Its proximity to Australia means New Zealand is ideal for those wanting the benefits of an overseas adventure without the hassle of sitting on a plane for the better part of a day. You’ll enjoy the country’s finest destinations, which are to be found brimming with natural beauty, on an engaging <a href="https://www.aptouring.com.au/trips/newzealand/ncc17?utm_source=over%2060%27s&amp;utm_medium=native&amp;utm_content=20191122_nz2021_over60s_nativearticle_ncc17&amp;utm_campaign=newzealand2020">APT 17-day tour</a>. And with the flexibility to choose experiences that peak your own interests, you’ll reap the benefits of experiencing New Zealand your way, with a wide selection of cultural, culinary, historical and adventurous experiences available.</p> <p><span>Following a relaxing introduction to New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland, you’ll become acquainted with an enthralling local history. The Kauri Museum grants insights into the region’s pioneering days, while at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, you’ll be brought to the spot where the original treaty was signed between the British and Māori people. A place of great cultural, spiritual and historical significance, Waitangi brings together the diverse stories of the people, events and places that paved the way in creating the New Zealand we have come to know. From here, the vast beauty of the Bay of Islands is revealed as a catamaran delivers you to Cape Brett. Here, an historic lighthouse looks out over the legendary Hole in the Rock. As you chart a course alongside the many islands here, serene views of spectacular rocky outcrops and sandy beaches are to be enjoyed.</span></p> <p><span>Heading south to Rotorua, relish the chance to deepen your understanding of Māori culture as you enjoy a traditional HāngīFeast and performance. The opportunity to visit a few of the sets from the Lord of the Rings movies also presents itself. Afterwards, head to the Wairakei Steam Valley, followed by a visit to the impressive Huka Falls, which is sustained by the gushing waters of the Waikato River. At the midpoint between Auckland and Wellington, the World Heritage-listed Tongariro National Park reveals its vast volcanic landscape. Renowned for being <a href="https://www.aptouring.com.au/destinations/new-zealand?utm_source=over%2060%27s&amp;utm_medium=native&amp;utm_content=20191122_nz2021_over60s_nativearticle%20&amp;utm_campaign=newzealand2020">New Zealand’s</a> oldest national park, it features three active volcanoes: Mount Ruapehu, Mount Ngauruhoe and Mount Tongariro. Arriving in Wellington, the capital’s myriad sights are yours to discover, with ample time allocated for you to explore at your own pace.</span></p> <p><span>Turn your attention now to the South Island, as the Interislander ferry takes you across Cook Strait. Along the way, take in stunning views of Marlborough and Queen Charlotte Sounds, with sharply rising hills lining the water’s edge on either side. Back on land, head south from the coastal town of Picton, before making a stop in the charming fishing town of Kaikoura. A short drive along the coast brings you to Christchurch in time to board the TranzAlpine train for one of the great rail adventures. Crossing the Canterbury Plains, striking views of the Southern Alps are afforded as you make your way to Arthur’s Pass National Park. In the small coastal town of Hokitika, witness the locally sourced stone, pounamu, carved into jewellery. Also known as New Zealand jade, the stone is only found on the South Island of New Zealand. The striking topography of Franz Josef then becomes evident for all to see. Surrounded by lush rainforest and snow-capped mountains, as well as the glacier that shares it name, the region is blessed with an abundance of flora and fauna, while close by, one of the rarest species of New Zealand’s native kiwi can be found. Retiring to your distinctive forest retreat, enjoy the feeling of inhabiting the treetops in this unique environment, before waking to the soothing sound of birdsongs.</span></p> <p><span><a href="https://www.aptouring.com.au/destinations/new-zealand?utm_source=over%2060%27s&amp;utm_medium=native&amp;utm_content=20191122_nz2021_over60s_nativearticle%20&amp;utm_campaign=newzealand2020">New Zealand’s</a> adventure capital, Queenstown, awaits. Here, a range of activities include a scenic gondola ride, a cruise aboard a vintage steamship, and a river safari. From Queenstown, a short journey by road brings you to the otherworldly Milford Sound. With its series of cliffs rising majestically from the water to tower above you, a discernible contrast between the landscapes of our respective nations becomes clear. As your vessel steers a course across the tranquil waters of this majestic fiord, you’ll get up close to several of the surrounding cliffs, including the epic Mitre Peak. In the evening, local authentic flavours will tantalise your palate during a special Taste of Fiordland dinner.</span></p> <p>Further north, arrive at Aoraki Mt Cook National Park and witness the lofty peak of New Zealand’s highest mountain. The Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre then shines a light on the region’s place within the wider universe – the jump across the Tasman has never seemed shorter.</p> <p>Moving further inland, Lake Tekapo turns on the charms with its Church of the Good Shepherd, built of stone and oak. Delightful rural scenes further paint the landscape on the drive back to Christchurch.</p> <p>Your visit to our cousins across the water concludes in Christchurch; our countries’ cultural, historic and geographical distinctions making for a captivating experience, while their relative nearness to one another proves especially convenient.</p> <p>New Zealand’s incomparable beauty is abundant and waiting to be explored. <a href="https://www.aptouring.com.au/destinations/new-zealand?utm_source=over%2060%27s&amp;utm_medium=native&amp;utm_content=20191122_nz2021_over60s_nativearticle%20&amp;utm_campaign=newzealand2020">Learn more here</a>.</p> <p><em>This is sponsored content brought to you in conjunction with <a href="https://www.aptouring.com.au/destinations/new-zealand?utm_source=over%2060%27s&amp;utm_medium=native&amp;utm_content=20191122_nz2021_over60s_nativearticle%20&amp;utm_campaign=newzealand2020">APT Luxury Travel</a>.</em></p>

International Travel

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Seal of approval: The Queen invites Meghan to attend royal event – without Prince Harry

<p>The Duchess of Sussex is set to complete her first royal engagement without her husband Prince Harry, but she will instead be at the right-hand side of a different royal companion – the Queen.</p> <p>The royal pair are departing for Cheshire today and they will travel on the luxury Royal Train overnight, reported <a href="https://www.thesun.co.uk/fabulous/6522302/meghan-markle-sleepover-royal-train-queen/" target="_blank"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The Sun</span></strong></em></a>.</p> <p>The luxury Royal Train has nine carriages and Meghan will sleep in one of the ensuite bedrooms and dine with the Queen in her 12-seater dining room.</p> <p>The trip is a huge honour for Meghan and reportedly even Prince Harry, Prince William and Kate have not yet ridden on board the Royal Train.</p> <p>Generally, a train ride from London to Cheshire only takes around two hours, however, the Queen’s train moves at a much slower pace</p> <p>The Queen opts to take the Royal Train to official engagements when she wants to make the long-distance journey overnight, rather than waking up early in the morning.</p> <p>Meghan’s day with the Queen will consist of watching her officially open the Mersey Gateway Bridge in Widnes and the Storyhouse cultural centre in Chester.</p> <p>The pair will then watch a performance by a dance company called Fallen Angels, which exists for recovering addicts.</p> <p>The royals will then enjoy a medley of songs from the Storyhouse’s latest production A Little Night Music and then, watch local schoolkids perform songs with actors from Swallows and Amazons.</p> <p>Meghan’s bonding with Her Royal Majesty will be concluded with a lunch outing to Chester Town Hall.</p> <p>Described as “Buckingham Palace on wheels”, the Royal Train was launched in 1842 during Queen Victoria’s reign as she disliked travelling by coach.</p> <p>The royal family use the train for extended holidays around the country and it is fitted with a full kitchen staff who cook meals to the standard of the royal palaces.</p> <p>The Queen’s private quarters are 75ft long and is decorated with a plush carpet, paintings of Scottish landscapes and air suspension to avoid a rocky ride.</p> <p>There is a roster of 150 special drivers who are allowed to take control of the Royal Train.</p>

News

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The subtle reference to Meghan’s divorce in the royal wedding invitations

<p><span>The final details are coming together as Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding on May 19 draws closer.</span></p> <p><span>One of the latest details to be revealed about the wedding are the traditional invitations that have been sent to guests, with <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-5553565/Prince-Harry-Meghan-Markle-wedding-invite-includes-subtle-nod-divorce.html" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>MailOnline</strong></span></a>’s etiquette expert William Hanson noticing one subtle reference hidden in the copy. </span></p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">The invitations follow many years of Royal tradition and have been made by <a href="https://twitter.com/BarnardWestwood?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BarnardWestwood</a>. They feature the Three-Feathered Badge of the Prince of Wales printed in gold ink. <a href="https://t.co/cd7LBmRJxO">pic.twitter.com/cd7LBmRJxO</a></p> — Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/KensingtonRoyal/status/976828794249076737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2018</a></blockquote> <p style="text-align: center;"><span> </span></p> <p><span>On the invites issued in Prince Charles’ name, Meghan is referred to as “Ms” Markle, where as in 2011, the Duchess of Cambridge was referred to as Miss Catherine Middleton.</span></p> <p><span>“The royal household, in particular the Queen, has never before acknowledged the honourific Ms – regardless of whether it was being used to signify a divorced woman or one who did not feel her marital status was of importance,” said Hanson.</span></p> <p><span>“It was first used in connection to Meghan in the November engagement announcement and since then has been used throughout the royal household's communications, on press releases, invitations and social media.</span></p> <p><span>“I would imagine Meghan herself has asked to be styled accordingly and that there is no slight intended on Prince Harry's fiancée. It is another subtle sign that the royal household is moving with the times."</span></p> <p><span>Meghan was previously married to film producer Trevor Engelson, with the pair marrying in 2011 after seven years of dating.</span></p> <p><span>Three years later the couple divorced citing irreconcilable differences, with some claiming it was due to clashes in their work schedules.</span></p> <p><span>Prince Harry and Meghan’s invites were shared with the public last week and were produced by company Barnard &amp; Westwood, which has held a Royal Warrant for Printing and Binding by Appointment to Her Majesty The Queen since 1985.</span></p> <p><span>The invites read, “His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales KG KT requests the pleasure of the company of....... at the marriage of His Royal Highness Prince Henry of Wales with Ms Meghan Markle at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle on Saturday 19th May, 2018 at 12 Noon followed by a reception at Windsor Castle.”</span></p> <p><span>It is expected that 600 guests will attend the wedding service and then enjoy a lunchtime reception at St George’s Hall, held by the Queen.</span></p> <p><span>Later, 200 guests are invited to a private reception at Frogmore House given by Prince Charles.</span></p>

Relationships

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Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding invitations revealed

<p>Not long to go now! Less than two months out from their big day, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have finalised their wedding invitations.</p> <p><img width="600" height="400" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7816717/dy5kmyaw0aa8qtr_600x400.jpg" alt="DY5kmy AW0AA8Qtr" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></p> <p>“His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales K.G., K.T. requests the pleasure of the company of [invitee name here] at the Marriage of His Royal Highness Prince Henry of Wales with Ms Meghan Markle at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle on Saturday 19th May 2018 at 12 Noon followed by a reception at Windsor Castle,” the invitations read.</p> <p>The dress code for the ceremony is “Uniform, Morning coat or Lounge Suit” for men and “Day Dress with Hat” for women.</p> <p>The couple turned to the prestigious printing company Barnard &amp; Westwood, which has held the Royal Warrant for printing and bookbinding since 1985.</p> <p>The honour of printing the invitations was given to 24-year-old Lottie Small, who only recently completed her apprenticeship at the workshop and said she was “unbelievably excited” to be given the important job.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-video"> <p dir="ltr">Using American ink on English card, the invitations are printed in gold and black, then burnished to bring out the shine, and gilded around the edge. <a href="https://t.co/gQpC6tDot0">pic.twitter.com/gQpC6tDot0</a></p> — Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/KensingtonRoyal/status/976829471050420224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2018</a></blockquote> <p>In a nod to the couple themselves, the invitations are printed in American ink on English card and gilded around the edge. They were printed using a process known as die stamping, on a 1930s machine affectionally dubbed “Maude”.</p> <p>“The invitation features The Three Feather Badge of The Prince of Wales,” Kensington Palace revealed. “The names of invited guests are added later by a calligraphy printer.”</p> <p>Managing director of Barnard &amp; Westwood, Austen Kopley, said the company was “thrilled” to be making invitations for “a truly special occasion”.</p> <p>“We are incredibly honoured to continue our longstanding work for The Royal Family, and to be involved in such an important moment for the couple and their family and friends.”</p> <p>Around 600 guests are expected to attend the May 19 service at St George’s Chapel in the grounds of Windsor Castle.</p> <p>Tell us in the comments below, will you be tuning in to the royal wedding?</p> <p><em>Image credit: Kensington Palace/Twitter.</em></p>

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